A new study published today by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) has revealed an emerging North-South divide on the number of apprenticeships taken in England. The research shows that young people from the North of England are 70% more likely to enrol on an apprenticeship than their counterparts in affluent areas of London and the South East. Mrs Paul added that giving people the chance to train and become professionally qualified is a key priority for the government because it will provide them with the best routes into jobs and a career.

Swansea Council’s apprenticeship scheme is one of a number of initiatives by the council to ensure that local contractors are hired for local projects. Swansea Council are doing their bit to help the construction industry by helping tradespeople find work. They are believed to be looking for plumbers to fill some of the roles. What do you think of schemes like the ones Swansea Council uses?