IMI research reveals continuing drop in Scottish apprenticeships

The number of new automotive apprentices in Scotland has fallen  3% year on year, according to new analysis from automotive industry professional body, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).

With the sector continuing to face significant skills gaps combined with the withdrawal of funding for apprenticeships by the Scottish government, the IMI said the figures for the first quarter of the current academic year represents a particular concern.

Analysis of Scottish automotive apprenticeship data showed that on average there are just under 1000 automotive modern apprenticeships starts in Scotland; apprenticeships are falling 3% year on year and only 4% of apprenticeship starts in Scotland in the past three years have been female

Hayley Pells, head of policy at the IMI comments: “Whilst our data is retrospective, we can’t ignore the fact that recent funding cuts in education and skills development in Scotland, including axing the Flexible Workforce Development Fund, are a concern​​.

“This fund's elimination, coupled with broader budgetary decisions impacting education and employability, could indirectly affect apprenticeships by reducing the resources available for training and development programs.

“Moreover cuts to the Scottish Funding Council and the implications for colleges and universities, points to a challenging environment for skills development and apprenticeships​​.

“These sectors are crucial for providing the training infrastructure necessary for apprenticeship programs, and budget reductions here could potentially limit opportunities for new and existing apprentices.”