Today, at the start of National Apprenticeship Week, Luke Myer MP has welcomed new reforms that will fast-track apprenticeships, cutting approval times from up to 18 months to as little as three months for key sectors so training can keep pace with major projects and emerging industries.

The changes form part of the Government’s Growth and Skills Levy reforms, backed by £725 million to support 50,000 more apprenticeships for young people. Ministers say the new accelerated approach will make the system more agile, allowing quicker updates to standards – for example in construction, clean energy and advanced manufacturing – while maintaining quality. Luke said this matters for places like Teesside, where major infrastructure, energy and industrial projects depend on having a skilled local workforce ready at the right time.

There has been an uptick in apprenticeship starts in Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland since Labour took office, with a 65% rise in over-25s starting higher apprenticeships, alongside more 19–24 year-olds moving into advanced routes. In 2025, the Labour made changes to reduce minimum apprenticeship periods to 8 months and give employers more flexibility on maths and English requirements. Today there are approximately 1,500 people in the constituency participating in apprenticeships.

Luke encouraged local young people, parents and anyone considering changing career to attend the Teesside Apprenticeship Expo tomorrow (Tuesday 10 February, 4-6pm at Middlesbrough College), where a range of local employers will be on hand to talk through opportunities.

Luke is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships and is proud to champion National Apprenticeships Week each year.