MACCLESFIELD COLLEGE KEEPS FOCUS ON APPRENTICESHIPS

Local MP, David Rutley, recently met with Macclesfield College Principal and Chief Executive, Ms Rachel Kay, during a well-attended Open Morning.

At the meeting, David heard about the work that the College is doing to boost interest in apprenticeships locally and to deliver the skills and training young people need to help achieve their potential.

David was very pleased to learn about the strong interest in apprenticeships, with over forty young people having engaged in discussions on apprenticeship opportunities while attending the event. This term, the College has been able to recruit an impressive 99 apprentices, thanks to the hard work of the College’s Maxim Business Training Team in engaging with local businesses. During July and August alone, Macclesfield College received over 900 apprenticeship applications.

Interest in apprenticeships by employers has also increased and has been assisted by the Government’s “Plan for Jobs”. This now offers employers £2,000 for each new apprentice they hire aged under 25, and £1,500 for each newly recruited apprentice aged 25 and over.

Employers who would like to find out more about this offer can visit this link - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/incentive-payments-for-hiring-a-new-apprentice

During his visit, David was also delighted to hear that Macclesfield College is set to receive £381,000 of additional funding to help with refurbishments, as part of Government plans to support further education. This new funding will form part of College’s ambitious expansion plans over the next few years.

Following the meeting, David said, “I was very pleased to hear how Macclesfield College is actively working to promote apprenticeships locally. Apprenticeships play a vital role in providing more positive career opportunities for local young people. I would strongly encourage as many employers as possible to find out more and take advantage of the Government’s improved plan for apprentices. The team at the College stands ready to help employers with any questions they may have and has the experience needed to provide the support local businesses need.”

Pictured - David Rutley MP at Macclesfield College with Ms Rachel Kay, Principal and Chief Executive of Macclesfield College.