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TUC disappointed at trade union exclusion from board of Institute for Apprenticeships

The TUC has reacted with disappointment recently (Friday) to the announcement of the eight board members of the Institute for Apprenticeships.

Despite the significant role of trade unions in the design and provision of apprenticeships, there will be no trade union voice on the board.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Investment in top quality apprenticeships must be a key pillar of the government’s industrial strategy if it is to be successful.

“Trade unions are committed to working with business and the Institute to drive up apprenticeship quality. However, it is disappointing that unions, whose learning projects have supported 33,000 apprenticeships in the last five years, won't be at the table to champion the interests of apprentices.

“Nevertheless we look forward to working with the Institute as it sets out to improve the quality of apprenticeships.”

Notes to Editors:

• Trade unions support and represent apprentices in the workplace. Through the TUC’s learning arm Unionlearn, we support trade unions and Union Learning Fund (ULF) projects to negotiate good quality apprenticeships. ULF projects have supported over 33,000 apprentices in the last 5 years.
• All TUC press releases can be found at tuc.org.uk/media
• TUC Press Office on Twitter: @tucnews