Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Dan Jarvis and Matt Hancock

Thursday 21st March 2013 Commons Chamber

[Dan Jarvis (Barnsley Central) (Lab)]

10. What his policy is on vocational education routes; and if he will make a statement.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Skills (Matthew Hancock)]

We are reforming vocational education to be more rigorous and responsive. We will introduce a TechBacc to recognise high-value technical education. We are strengthening further education colleges and, through the Richard reforms, strengthening apprenticeships, so that university or an apprenticeship becomes the new norm for school leavers.

[Dan Jarvis]

I thank the Minister for his response. He may not be aware that a number of major public and private sector employers in Barnsley recently signed a pledge to have 2.5% of their work force as apprenticeships. However, with the number of young people aged 16 to 18 starting apprenticeships falling, can the Minister learn anything from the innovative approach taken in my constituency?

[Matthew Hancock]

Yes, I am sure I can learn an awful lot from such an approach. It sounds terrific and I would like to hear more.