To receive a verbal update on this matter.

The Head of HR Policy and Development provided the Panel with a verbal update on the progress made towards establishing a corporate apprenticeship scheme for young persons.  She explained that the Council’s Directors had expressed considerable interest in the proposal and a report was due to be submitted to the Corporate Management Team (CMT) on 12 June.  The Head of HR Policy and Development was optimistic that the proposal would move forward and apprenticeship opportunities would available at the Council from September.

The Chairman referred to the substantial Member interest generated in this matter and the subsequent discussions which had taken place with especial regard to Looked After Children.  He stated that there was clear support for a corporate apprenticeship scheme and, arising from this, the possibility of a career within the Council.  However, a Member cautioned the meeting on treating Looked After Children more favourably than others and stressed the need for equality of opportunity.  She then stated that she would wish to see apprenticeships offered to individuals on a long term basis and not merely for a few years.  The Member referred to an existing scheme offered by Shuttleworth College and queried whether the Council could work with it.

In response the Head of HR Policy and Development welcomed the comments made.  She then explained that CMT would be considering the need for additional resources to research alternative schemes.  The Head of HR Policy and Development stressed that the Council was fully aware of its responsibilities to all young people and would not be treating Looked After Children any differently.

The Assistant Director Children’s Services Operations referred to the annual provision of twelve paid placements by the London Borough of Lambeth and how they had provided for the development of young people’s skills and confidence.  He explained that this type of alternative scheme would be examined.

Members then raised a number of queries.  In response the Head of HR Policy and Development stated that it was planned to offer approximately nine apprenticeships spread across the Council.  She also stated that the possibility of offering internships would need to be researched separately.  The Head of HR Policy and Development explained that following consideration by CMT the proposals would be submitted to Members for consideration and approval.

With regard to the cost of the scheme the Head of HR Policy and Development stated that the funding requirement had been based on the provision of nine places but this number could be increased should there be sufficient interest and if additional funding was forthcoming.

Turning next to the question of travel costs the Head of HR Policy and Development reported that this issue had been fully considered and the pay rate for the apprentices would be sensitive to the costs involved.

Following a reference to the extensive work undertaken by Hampshire County Council on apprenticeship and placement provision the Head of HR Policy and Development undertook to investigate the action taken by that authority.

In response to a query by the Chairman on the level of participation in the proposed apprenticeship scheme by the Council’s contractors the Head of HR Policy and Development explained that the focus had been on providing apprenticeships within the Council’s own directly provided services.  It was felt that the Council, by leading by example, could encourage other sectors to participate.

A foster carer referred to the impact of unemployment on young people and the problems which this generated.  She gave her full support for the proposals.  The meeting noted that the Children in Care Council had also indicated its support.

In conclusion the Chairman thanked the Head of HR Policy and Development for her update.  He expressed the hope that the funding for the nine apprenticeships would have been approved by the time she next reported to the Panel.

NOTED

the verbal report of the Head of HR Policy and Development.