Skills Minister John Hayes has introduced tougher standards for apprenticeships with the aim of driving up quality.
Apprenticeships will last for a minimum of 12 months to guarantee improvements in training and workplace learning.

From August this year the new standards will be effective for all age groups, subject to consultation with providers and employers. For people aged 19 and over, apprenticeships will last for between one and four years unless prior learning or attainment has been undertaken.

Mr Hayes said: 'The majority of apprenticeships are the gold standard in vocational training. They boost individuals' life chances and build the skills that drive growth.'

He continued: 'But we must be relentless in our drive to ensure all apprenticeships are as good as the best, to identify and root out any instances of poor quality provision, and to raise the bar on standards.

'We are taking strong and decisive action to tackle short duration so all apprentices receive high quality training and workplace learning setting them on the road to a long, rewarding career.'

Small businesses employing less than 250 staff will now be able to apply for a grant worth up to £1,500 when they recruit their first apprentice.

The National Apprenticeship Service (MAS) is offering up to 40,000 Apprenticeship Grants to businesses who take on an apprentice aged 16 to 24.

For more information call the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150 600 or visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk