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A new survey shows that North-east employers need greater encouragement and support to provide apprenticeships.

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has released figures which suggest that only 27% of North-east employers offer apprenticeships, compared to a national average of nearly a half (49%).

The Business and Education survey, which was carried out by Chambers of Commerce across the UK, is part of campaign aimed at bridging the divide between business and education, so that young people are better prepared for work and businesses have the skills they need.

While North-east businesses are marginally more likely to be in education partnerships (60% of respondents, compared with a 54% UK average), nearly a third (31%) do not offer workplace experience opportunities.

This is despite three in four North-east employers (74%) saying that they think workplace experience would help to develop the necessary skills in the future workforce.

Respondents were keen to find support, with a clear majority (59%) saying that more information and facilitation would encourage them to offer workplace experience opportunities.

Amanda Boyle, project director for Developing the Young Workforce in North-east Scotland, said, “Recruiting the brightest and best talent means employers making both themselves and the opportunities available known to young people, often through relationships with schools and colleges.

“In our region, employers have the benefit of a local Developing the Young Workforce group, a business-led initiative focused on helping employers create a co-ordinated approach to work experience, skills and apprenticeships.

“We’re already making progress in the construction and hospitality sectors, to bridge the gap between education and employers, with the aim of creating a one-stop source of guidance and support for the recruitment of young people taking their first steps into employment.”

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