Retail Apprenticeships Hit Record Levels

7 - May - 2010

Small Business News

Retail Apprenticeships rose by nearly a third to reach record levels last year, Skillsmart Retail announced today.

Figures released by the Sector Skills Council revealed that 5,900 Retail Apprenticeships were awarded in England in the academic year of 2008/9 - up 31% from 4,500 in 2007/8.

Theo Paphitis, Chairman of stationery specialists Ryman and a Skillsmart Retail Patron, applauded retailers on their involvement in Apprenticeships and called on more of them to explore the benefits during the week.

Theo Paphitis said:

“Today’s news is yet another sign that retailers are continuing to realise the benefits of the programme. Apprenticeships are good for employers and good for businesses so I urge all retailers to think about the enormous value they can deliver.”

Anne Seaman, CEO of Skillsmart Retail, said:

“Retailers regularly tell us that Apprenticeships work for them as they allow their staff to learn on the job while getting the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to excel, and I would urge businesses of all sizes to find out more about the what benefits they can bring.”