Head of Strategic Partnerships reacts to Autumn Budget

Andy Clarke, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Ahead Partnership: “We welcome the additional information provided around the Youth Guarantee in today’s budget. With more than one million young people currently NEET and national productivity still lagging, this type of targeted investment is essential. The Prime Minister has talked about putting apprenticeships on an equal footing with academic routes, and today’s commitment to fully fund apprenticeship training for under-25s in SMEs removes a real barrier for smaller businesses to play their part in that ambition.

However, funding alone won’t deliver the pipeline of talent the economy needs. Young people also need to understand how to access these opportunities, and too often those from less represented backgrounds lack the connections to do so. High-quality, consistent careers education that is co-designed with employers is vital if we want young people to see a clear pathway to meaningful work.

“To make this ambition a reality, Government must work collectively with experienced delivery partners such as ourselves, as well as with employers, to ensure these initiatives reach every young person. Collaboration is key if we are serious about creating a diverse, skilled workforce that drives future growth.”