Agenda item

The Slough Academy Manager provided the Committee with an update on the number of apprenticeships and progress made since June 2020. Another 8 apprentices had successfully achieved their qualifications taking the total to 11 overall, with a further 19 apprenticeships awaiting a start date. 75% of apprentices were Slough residents. It was noted that the level of uncertainty created by the Our Futures Transformation programme had slowed down development of new apprenticeships. An overview of apprentice statistics relating to gender, age and disability were outlined.

Members discussed a range of issues including whether the scheme represented value for money. It was explained that significant returns had been realised on investment. Whilst the most costly apprentice programme related to social work, Members were informed that the benefits included retaining staff and encouraging career progression within the organisation; especially in areas which were typically difficult to recruit to such as social workers.

Referring to whether the scheme could only be made available to Slough residents, it was noted that this would not be possible from a legal perspective but that it was predominantly promoted within the Borough. A Member asked about the drop out rate of those who had started the scheme and was informed that there had been a 100% retention rate. 

The Committee were informed that external partner organisations to the Council were encouraged to take on apprentices and this was, if appropriate, explored via service level agreements with those bodies.

Resolved –  That the report be noted.