Sturgeon announces apprentice network for high schools

Apprentices will visit high schools across Scotland to encourage pupils to consider an apprenticeship, Nicola Sturgeon has announced.

The First Minister has launched a new national network for every Scottish high school to be linked with current or former apprentices who can share their experiences.

Announcing the ambassador scheme at Forth Valley College as part of as part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, Ms Sturgeon said she wanted apprentices to inspire other young people to follow in their footsteps.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Creating this network of apprentices, who can share their experiences with others, will help inspire the next generation.

“We know that work-based learning delivers for individuals, employers, and the Scottish economy.

“Through the network, apprentices are going to have the chance to inspire young people to follow their example and become the apprentices of tomorrow.

“Their success stories are the best way to show pupils that work-based learning offers fantastic career opportunities.”

Katie Hutton from Skills Development Scotland added: “We know that the best people to showcase the benefits of apprenticeships are successful apprentices.

“Through the network, apprentices will have a unique opportunity to talk directly to school pupils who are making their career choices and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.”