Dundee and Angus College was delighted to welcome Michael Marra MSP to its Gardyne Campus yesterday afternoon.
Mr Marra’s visit is one of the College’s planned events for Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2022; a national week-long campaign that raises awareness of the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting people, employers and the economy. This year’s theme is ‘Apprenticeships Work’ which aims to highlight how apprenticeships are providing the skills employers need now and for the future.
The Scottish Government is committed to increasing the number of apprenticeships in Scotland and is providing apprenticeship-related opportunities and support for both individuals and businesses.
One of the region’s leading apprenticeship providers, Dundee and Angus College currently has 486 students enrolled on Modern or Foundation Apprenticeship programmes.
During his visit, the Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills met with IT Software and Creative & Digital learners who are undertaking a Foundation Apprenticeship with the College during their school senior phase years. Mr Marra spoke to the apprentices about their experiences of working towards a recognised qualification that combines traditional and practical work-based learning.
Simon Hewitt, Principal of Dundee and Angus College, said: “As a college we are fully committed to creating as many opportunities, pathways and choices as possible for our young people to connect into local industry. Apprenticeships provide this opportunity and our growth of both Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships will ensure our region, and its employers, have the relevant skilled workforce it needs to thrive and grow.”
Skills Development Scotland Chair and Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board Co-Chair, Frank Mitchell, said: “When it comes to supporting sustainable skills through workforce development or providing opportunities for young people, we know that apprenticeships work.
“The combination of commitment from employers and the backing of Scottish Government will ensure apprenticeships work for everyone, making a significant contribution to Scotland’s recovery and productivity growth.”
