ESTABLISHING A ROYAL SOCIETY OF APPRENTICES

Early day motion 587, tabled 21 July 2010 by Robert Halfon (Conservative). Signed by 14 members.

That this House welcomes the Government's plans to restore apprenticeships to their former glory; considers that such a change in policy must be supported by a change in culture; believes that this Parliament should create a new golden age of vocational training, where apprenticeships are seen as prestigious and of equal value to a university degree; further believes that a Royal Society of Apprentices, similar to the Law Society or the British Medical Association, should be established to replicate the vibrant social life of universities for students in vocational training; further believes that there should be an annual apprentices day in every local authority, which would build on the already successful Vocational Qualifications Day and act as a formal graduation ceremony for vocational students; and calls on the Government to add its voice in support of these efforts in the coming months and years.

Signatures by party: Conservative 5, Liberal Democrat 5, Labour 4.