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APPRENTICE BOOST
Maths and English test pass requirements for apprentices set to be scrapped in bid to boost home-grown talent
Ministers hope the move will help wean the economy off overseas labour
REQUIREMENTS for apprentices to pass English and Maths could be scrapped under plans to boost the workforce and slash migration.
Bosses have been demanding flexibility to sign off a youngster’s qualification if it is clear they can do the job but struggle with academic exams.
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Ministers are understood to be considering the change, with hopes it will help wean the economy off overseas labour.
Trainees must currently pass Level 1 numeracy and literacy tests if they did not make the grades at GCSE.
Without them, they cannot complete their apprenticeship and therefore find it harder to find jobs despite a national skills shortage.
Potential rule changes being eyed in government will let the firms decide whether someone is able to practice their trade without the English and Maths certificates.
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A poll of bosses from the Institute of Directors, who, like TV’s Lord Alan Sugar, take on apprentices, found 71 per cent backed the idea.
Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, their skills chief Alex Hall-Chen told The Sun: “‘Increasing apprenticeship numbers will be essential if the UK is to tackle the longstanding skills shortages which are holding back growth.
“While employers consider it essential that core literacy and numeracy skills are embedded within every apprenticeship, introducing flexibility around the English and maths qualifications requirements would encourage more employers to offer apprenticeships.”
Mike Worley, from apprenticeships provider HIT Training, also urged ministers to make the change.
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He said: “There are many reasons why individuals may not have achieved maths and English at school, but this should not prevent them from completing an apprenticeship or progressing in their career.
“Building confidence and skills in these areas is essential for personal and professional growth, and it’s important that they remain part of apprenticeship programmes.
“However, does passing an exam make someone a better chef or care worker? In my experience, it does not."
At present, trainees who do not make the grades at GCSE must pass level 1 numeracy and literacy tests.
The Department for Education said: “We recognise employers want more flexibility and are looking into what improvements can be made.”
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