A network connecting schools with apprentices to act as role models for their students was launched by Scotland’s first minister today.

Every school in Scotland is to be linked with an ambassador from the new Scotland’s Apprentice Network, which is open to current and former apprentices who want to encourage young people to follow in their footsteps.

More on this: Swinney: Apprenticeships for school pupils ‘important’

Other news: More Scots seeing value of apprenticeships

Background: Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland ‘overlooked’ by apprenticeship levy

Apprenticeships: ‘Inspiring the next generation’

Launching the network at Forth Valley College on the first day of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Creating this network of apprentices, who can share their experiences with others, will help inspire the next generation. We know that work-based learning delivers for individuals, employers, and the Scottish economy.”  

She added: “Through the network, apprentices are going to have the chance to inspire young people to follow their example and become the apprentices of tomorrow. Their success stories are the best way to show pupils that work-based learning offers fantastic career opportunities.” 

The network will be facilitated by Skills Development Scotland (SDS), and the organisation said it would ensure the inclusive recruitment of network members, from across the whole of Scotland, different sectors, industries and disciplines. 

Members will communicate the benefits of foundation, modern and graduate apprenticeships to young people, employers, parents, schools and other stakeholders at a local level. 

Katie Hutton, SDS director of national training programmes, said: “We know that the best people to showcase the benefits of apprenticeships are successful apprentices. 

“Through the network, apprentices will have a unique opportunity to talk directly to school pupils who are making their career choices and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.”