Today SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, visited Lewis Builders Ltd in Stornoway and met with the company’s apprentices to hear about their experiences.

This week is Scottish Apprenticeships Week, which aims to shine a light on the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting people, employers and the economy. At the end of 2021, there were over 40,000 Modern Apprentices training in Scotland.

Commenting after his visit, Allan said:

“It was great to meet some young apprentices today in Stornoway and hear about their work, the skills they are gaining, and their ambitions for the future.

“Apprenticeships play a vital role in unlocking the potential of our economy both at a local and a national level. Quality workplace training increases opportunities both for young people starting out in their career and for employers too.

“I would encourage anyone considering either enrolling in an apprenticeship scheme, or any employers looking to grow their business with an apprentice, to take full advantage of the fantastic resources available via Skills Development Scotland, funded by the Scottish Government.”

Chair of Skills Development Scotland, Frank Mitchell, said:

“Designed by industry, for industry, apprenticeships not only help the economy but also create sustainable jobs across all parts of Scotland. These opportunities have been taken by individuals from across society, including many young people traditionally with restricted opportunities to progress who have gone onto flourish in the workplace.

“These are real jobs backed by employers who contribute £10 for every £1 spent by government, and at the same time apprentices contribute by paying their taxes.

“Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce through work-based learning is benefiting employers as apprentices enable them to adapt and sustain their business.”

To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities in Scotland, visit Apprenticeships.scot