Schools across Scotland should ensure dedicated time in the curriculum for learning about apprenticeships to improve minority ethnic participation, according to a major new report published today (5 March) as part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week.
The Commission on Race in Apprenticeships by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) in partnership with the Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board (SAAB) has set out 20 recommendations to improve ethnic minority participation in Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships.
Sharon Blyfield OBE, head of early careers and apprenticeships at Coca-Cola Europacific Partnerships and Race Commission chair said: “This Commission came together to accelerate change to address racial imbalance in apprenticeships and provide leadership and guidance to employers, educators and policy makers.
Sharon Blyfield OBE
“Addressing the under-representation of people from minority ethnic backgrounds in apprenticeships is crucial for promoting equality and inclusion and providing those individuals with access to career opportunities and skills development.
“It is not only a matter of social justice and equality though, it also makes economic and practical sense as it enriches the workforce, helps close skills gaps, and fosters more inclusive and creative businesses.”
The recommendations set out are for the Scottish Government and its agencies, employers and the education sector. Four key themes are built into the recommendations – anti-racism, women and girls, refugees and asylum seekers and key influencers.
As well as dedicated curriculum time, the education sector is being urged to work to increase understanding of the benefits of apprenticeships.
Sharon added: “We know from SDS research that parents and carers are the biggest influencers on young people when it comes to career decisions, and it’s from schools that much of that information flows. Schools must start to recognise and give equal weighting and time to apprenticeship opportunities as they do to university and college pathways.
“These recommendations add up to an action plan. This is a real chance to further improve Scotland’s apprenticeship system to better serve its communities and I sincerely hope it’s received as such.”
For Scottish Government, recommendations include embedding equality considerations in funding reviews and allocations, and improving access to apprenticeships by subsidising fees used in the process of recognising prior learning for qualifications from overseas.
For employers, there is an ask to highlight safe working practices and safety at work, as well as creating more mentoring opportunities. The Commission is also urging employers to consider limiting out of hours activities for apprentices that may act as a barrier to women and girls, particularly those operating in male-dominated industries and sign up to relevant charters and accreditations to demonstrate their dedication to diversity.
The employer-led Commission has begun plans to develop an Anti-racism Framework for Employers to support the improvement of application processes, workplace experience and career progression for minority ethnic apprentices.
Charandeep Singh, deputy chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce
Charandeep Singh, deputy chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, Race Commission vice chair, said: “Companies that embrace diversity tend to outperform their less diverse counterparts, enjoying increased productivity, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
“The findings of the Commission provide a compelling argument for businesses to prioritise diversity in their apprenticeship programmes.
“By adopting inclusive practices and taking proactive steps to support minority ethnic individuals, businesses can drive innovation, improve performance, and contribute to a more equitable society.”
Directives are laid out too for government skills and careers agencies, including offering the highest level of career information, advice and guidance support for minority ethnic customers.
Fergus McMillan, Head of Equality and Diversity at SDS, said: “Lived experience was key to the Commission’s findings and recommendations. A wide range of organisations across the public, private and Third sector have been involved in adding to the evidence base and producing this final report.
“I want to thank all those who have lent us their time and expertise in the last 12 months and reassure them SDS is already working on the recommendations set out.”