In his independent report Doug Richard calls on the government calls to improve the quality of apprenticeships and make them more focused on the needs of employers.
His recommendations include:
Redefining apprenticeships: They should be targeted only at those who are new to a job or role that requires sustained and substantial training.
Focusing on the outcome of an apprenticeship - what the apprentice can do when they complete their training - and freeing up the process by which they get there. Trusted, independent assessment is key.
Recognised industry standards should form the basis of every apprenticeship.
All apprentices should reach a good level in English and maths before they can complete their apprenticeship.
Government funding must create the right incentives for apprenticeship training. The purchasing power for investing in apprenticeship training should lie with the employer.
Greater diversity and innovation in training - with employers and government safeguarding quality
