Apprenticeship funding boost welcomed by The Cornwall College Group

The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) has warmly welcomed the Government’s announcement of extra funding for companies that take on apprentices.  

Speaking to MPs in the House of Commons to outline his plans for a post-coronavirus economic recovery, chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that incentive grants for apprenticeships would increase from £1,500 to £3,000 – and a £126m additional investment would be put into traineeships.  

This comes on top of other grants that are available meaning firms who take on new apprentices can receive up to £4,000 in total. 

Lorna Martin, Head of Apprenticeships and External Engagement at TCCG said the announcement was “excellent news” for both employers and those looking to take on the further education option.  

She commented: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic career-boosting move for so many people, so I am delighted the government have recognised this with these incentives.”  

Lorna continued: “Work-based learning can be a valuable route for anyone, regardless of age, so I would strongly recommend you have a look at the huge range of options on our website www.cornwall.ac.uk/apprenticeships.  

“And with these extra financial incentives, hiring an apprentice can be a great opportunity for local employers too.”  

The Chancellor said that more than 40,000 young people in England would benefit from the additional £126m investment into traineeships, while the apprenticeship scheme would help people of all ages and backgrounds reskill for “levelling up” Britain’s economy.  

He added: “Over the course of this year, as the economy beings to recover, we are shifting our resources and focus towards getting people into decent, well-paid jobs.  

“Today we’re doubling the apprentice incentive payments we give businesses to £3,000 – that’s for all new hires, of any age.”  

The Cornwall College Group is the largest provider of apprenticeships in the south west and responsible for the pioneering Apprenticeship Games, which is taking place at Cornwall College Camborne on June 11. To find out about apprenticeship opportunities near you, contact their dedicated apprentice team on apprenticeships@cornwall.ac.uk.