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Richard Review


People 1st


aspects in Richard Review recommendations


finds positive


Working in rail is currently seen as a second or third choice of career says Ruth Asker-Browne, so we must do all we can to promote this fantastic industry


T


he Richard Review of Apprenticeships, carried out by entrepreneur Doug Richard, forms part of the government’s


enquiry into the future of apprenticeships in England. Having received submissions from across all sectors of the economy, including passenger transport, the review’s recommendations are designed to secure the future of apprenticeships in England.


Richard’s recommendations include:


• Redefining apprenticeships so they are targeted solely 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 that 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.


Ruth Asker-Browne, who is responsible for apprenticeship policy at People 1st, the sector skills council for hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism in the UK, says that many of the recommendations accurately reflect the rail industry’s views. ‘The rail industry is very adaptable and


employers are keen to make the most of what’s available, so the Richard Review recommendations are mostly welcomed.’ While the rail industry is not a


significant employer of apprentices at the moment – just three per cent of employers currently offer apprenticeships1


strongly held view across the industry that – there is a


apprenticeships could offer significant returns in the future.


A major research report into the


labour market trends, skills, education and training in the passenger transport industry released last year showed that more than half of businesses (57 per cent) would consider employing an apprentice in the future2


. With a number of apprenticeships


in the rail industry available, including driving, guards, signalling, rail operations and shunting, there is a wide scope for the training and development of apprentices. And with the Richard Review highlighting the importance of apprenticeships having a clearly defined identity within industries and clarity on where a career can lead for staff, there is strong incentive to increase the numbers of people undertaking apprenticeships.


Asker-Browne notes however that the


significant age restrictions imposed on those working in the rail industry could be a deterrent to attracting younger staff members and apprentices in particular. ‘The strong health and safety element


FEBRUARY 2013 PAGE 95


1. State of the Nation Passenger Transport 2012, People 1st. 2. State of the Nation Passenger Transport 2012, People 1st.


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