The Institute for Apprenticeships (IfA) plans to more than double the size of its panel of apprentices.

Ten current and former apprentices are currently on the panel, which provides feedback and recommendations to the IfA board on any aspect of apprenticeships that fall within the institute’s remit.

A further 16 members are now being recruited to the panel, with applications closing next Monday.

“The Institute for Apprenticeships is committed to ensuring that apprentices have a say in changes to apprenticeship policy, and the chance to improve the experience of those who follow them,” says IfA chief executive Sir Gerry Berragan.

Writing in the foreword to the application pack for panel members, he says that the panel “has played an important role in making sure the needs of apprentices are at the heart of every decision we take”.

Sir Gerry adds: “It is important that the panel represents different industries, large and small employers, and apprenticeship levels, as well as including individuals from diverse backgrounds.”

The panel will decide for itself which issues to focus on, with members expected to attend meetings every six weeks.

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