As we mark National Apprenticeship Week, an event that is now nationally recognised, it is fantastic the apprenticeship brand seems to be on a more level playing field with traditional academic routes.
We are still some way behind countries such as Germany, Australia and Switzerland in how they utilise their programmes and how they are viewed by employers and individuals but we are definitely moving in the right direction.
The Ladder for Greater Birmingham, an initiative to highlight the value and opportunities available through apprenticeships, will be using this week to showcase the work it has done since 2018.
It's hard to believe we launched the Ladder nearly four years ago (scroll down for more info).
Despite the considerable challenges over the past two years, to have supported the creation of more than 2,000 new apprenticeship starts with our delivery partners, engaging with numerous key skills and education stakeholders and instigating a much-needed apprenticeship awards for the second city makes us all very proud.
There has never been a better time to enrol on an apprenticeship.
The Ladder has several thousand employed vacancies available through its partners in a range of different sectors and at different levels for all ages.
Whether you are leaving school at 16 and starting your career or have just celebrated your 60th birthday and wish to gain skills for a promotion or new challenge, an apprenticeship is for you. Earn while you learn and have no debt at the end.
The Ladder is currently investigating the possibility of opening a city centre-based, 'one-stop shop'.
This will be available to be utilised by all individuals, employers and stakeholders to ensure the many options available in the region are showcased while have-a-go sessions will be held so people can try out the duties required for roles in different sectors.
I look forward to sharing more details about this in the near future.
Rob Colbourne is chief executive of West Midlands training provider Performance Through People which is a partner in the Ladder for Greater Birmingham apprenticeship campaign
