Government creates 120,000 new training places to build UK workforce

The Government set out plans for 120,000 new training opportunities for young people, focusing on skills most needed to rebuild the country. 

The plans cover training more bricklayers, carpenters and healthcare support workers, with reforms aimed at young, domestic talent.

Backed by a £3bn apprenticeship budget, the measures are expected to create more routes into skilled work. 

The Government committed to 30,000 additional apprenticeship starts during this parliament, with the aim of getting more people into construction, healthcare and digital roles.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “A skilled workforce is the key to steering the economy forward, and today we’re backing the next generation by giving young people more opportunities to learn a trade, earn a wage and achieve and thrive.

“When we invest in skills for young people, we invest in a shared, stronger economic future – creating opportunities as part of our Plan for Change.

“But everyone has a role to play in a thriving economy, and we’re taking our responsibility seriously providing more routes into employment, it’s now the responsibility of young people to take them.”

The Government raised the immigration skills charge by 32%, which is expected to fund up to 45,000 extra training places to help upskill the domestic workforce and reduce reliance on migration in key sectors.