Whatever the outcome of next week’s general election, I would hope to see a continued and sustained focus on encouraging businesses to recruit apprentices.

Both young people – and their parents – need to be made more aware of the opportunities available to them via vocational training. Gyrfa Cymru Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com) provide an online ‘Apprenticeship Matching Service’ for all aspiring apprentices to view the latest opportunities and register their interest.

Here at Acorn Learning and Development we are contracted to work in more than 10 different apprenticeship sectors; we work in partnership with colleges and other providers, all members of the National Training Federation Wales, to design, deliver and accredit apprenticeships.

Vocational qualifications have never been more important to the economy and the individual; they deliver the trained, talented employees businesses are crying out for and ensure young people have the skills needed to succeed in education and work; which is why we will be supporting VQ Day on June 10th to recognise and celebrate how high-quality vocational qualifications can enhance life and work chances.

The huge variety of careers that can be achieved via vocational qualifications and apprenticeships in particular include accountancy, law, engineering and manufacturing amongst others; but there is also an onus on employers to work with training partners and access the resources available to help recruit and train apprentices.

Apprenticeships not only help young people into the workplace, they also support life-long learning ensuring that employees continue to develop throughout their careers. It’s not only young people who can benefit from apprenticeships, this type of training is available up to senior management level and is a great way to ensure that existing staff feel valued and develop the management skills businesses need to sustain long-term growth.

At Acorn, we work with businesses to complete a total assessment of the workforce, both temporary and permanent, and produce a detailed training plan, as well as offering assistance to secure appropriate funding support to help ensure apprenticeships are a valuable option available to them.

The potential to develop our apprenticeship offering here in Wales is huge; and will help the growth of business, young people and the Welsh economy as a whole. Apprenticeships are funded by the Welsh government and supported by the European Social Fund.