This morning, Richard visited the British Gas Training Academy in Thatcham for a tour of the facilities and to meet with local apprentices.
British Gas has a long and proud history of training apprentices through their six academies and will be supporting National Apprenticeship Week 2014, from 3-7 March.
Of his visit, Richard said, “I am highly impressed with the academy and the apprentices. It is encouraging that so many young people are benefiting from this scheme and are learning a trade to enhance their future prospects. I am confident that the nation’s boilers and central heating systems are in safe hands.”
He continued, “With Government putting employers in the driving seat over the design of apprenticeships, firms such as British Gas, can take ownership of the skills agenda for their industry ensuring young people are equipped with the skills needed to get on.”
A record number of apprenticeships have started under this Government, with half a million created last year alone.