Dame Irene Hays welcomes education secretary’s support for apprenticeships

Dame Irene Hays has backed the government’s bid to support young people through apprenticeships after meeting education secretary Bridget Phillipson MP.

The Hays Travel chair heard Phillipson’s keynote address at the North East Chamber of Commerce’s annual 1815 lunch last week during which Labour’s recently announced education reforms were laid out.

The reforms include a target for two-thirds of young people to participate in higher-level learning by age 25, up from 50% today, via academic, technical or apprenticeship routes.

Hays said: “We have a long history of welcoming apprentices into our business and supporting them to thrive and reach their full potential.

“We know the value of nurturing young people who are enthusiastic to learn while they earn and are pleased to see that the government recognises that, while academia has its place, it’s not the answer for all young people or all businesses.

“We are immensely proud that some of our most senior team began their careers as apprentices, including our chief operating officer. Apprentices bring innovation and fresh new ideas to our business.”

Hays Travel, which is an accredited training provider, has more than 600 apprentices in branches across the UK and in its Sunderland head office.

Hays added: “We provide ongoing learning, development and progression opportunities for our people that enable them to reach their full potential.

“Investing in our apprentices is a key part of that commitment to our people, as well as to delivering exceptional customer services, and supporting our communities.”

Phillipson delivered her speech in a suite at Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light. The 1815 lunch is a nod to the chamber of commerce’s founding year.