Better Business / Member news
New apprenticeships programme launched to fill skills gap
Thousands of young people across the West of England are at risk of missing out on vital apprenticeship guidance following the closure of the government’s ASK programme earlier this year.
To ensure no student is left behind, the Western Training Provider Network (WTPN), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to education and skills, has stepped in with the launch of the Apprenticeships West Programme.
For years, the ASK programme supported schools, students and parents in navigating apprenticeship pathways. With no national or regional replacement planned, there is growing concern that many young people could be deprived of life-changing opportunities.
The situation is particularly stark, with apprenticeship starts for under-19s down by 37 per cent since 2016 and entry-level opportunities at Levels 2 and 3 reduced by more than half. Teachers, careers leads and parents are often left without the specialist resources or training needed to offer in-depth advice.
“We know how overwhelming career choices can feel for young people and their families,” said Vanessa Louise Boyce of WTPN. “At WTPN, we care deeply about ensuring every student — no matter their background — has access to clear, expert advice so they can take confident steps into their future.”
Launching in September, Apprenticeships West will work with more than 50 schools across the region. The programme will deliver engaging assemblies and workshops to raise awareness of apprenticeship options, offer one-to-one guidance for students, provide training for teachers and careers staff, and create resources to help parents support informed choices.
Careers leads from schools across the region have welcomed the scheme. One from Patchway Community School said: “Many of our students want to get into work rather than go to college but do not have the support they need at home. An external service like this is vital in helping us guide our students towards the right opportunities.”
A spokesperson from Montpelier School added: “Without this service, we wouldn’t have the up-to-date professional knowledge to support disadvantaged students.”
The WTPN represents a trusted network of over 45 training providers, colleges, universities and charities. As a not-for-profit organisation, its mission is to champion education and skills development for the benefit of young people and their communities.
Through the ASK programme, WTPN supported more than 87,000 students in the past six years and was consistently rated “excellent” by schools. The new Apprenticeships West initiative builds on that legacy, offering continuity and stability while helping schools strengthen their own careers provision.
To make the programme sustainable and reach every school in need, WTPN is seeking to raise £75,000 over the next year. Local employers and businesses are being called upon to lend their support, ensuring the region’s young people are equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive.
“This is about working together as a community,” added Vanessa Louise Boyce. “With the backing of local employers and partners, we can ensure every young person has the tools and guidance they need to succeed.”
“We have seen first-hand how good careers guidance can be, and we are determined that no young person in our region is left without support just because national funding has ended,” said Alex Richards, managing director of WTPN
Business leaders have also underlined the importance of the programme. Matt Tudge, head of skills at Business West, said: “Employers across our region need talented young people to thrive, and young people need clear pathways into those opportunities.
“That is why Business West is proud to be a founding member of Apprenticeships West. This scheme will play a vital role in connecting businesses with the next generation of talent and strengthening the skills base our region depends on.”
Alex Richards, managing director of WTPN, said the programme is about creating a lasting legacy of opportunity.
“We have seen first-hand how good careers guidance can be, and we are determined that no young person in our region is left without support just because national funding has ended. For employers, it is about showcasing their opportunities and creating a sustainable supply chain of talent into the future.”
For more information, visit www.wtpn.org.uk/copy-of-apprenticeships-west-service
WTPN is a member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network, an initiative to help businesses thrive while creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here. As part of their membership, businesses can publish member news stories like this. For more information, visit my.bristol247.com/better-business
All photos: WTPN
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