UNISON has signed a new apprenticeships agreement with a Suffolk council today which could be a model for similar schemes across the country.
The union has developed the apprenticeship scheme with St Edmundsbury council and the TUC learning arm, Unionlearn, is looking to take it up nationally after it is signed today, to mark the end of national apprenticeship week.
UNISON learning rep Craig Young came up with the model agreement after carrying out research on what makes a good apprenticeship. He is now working with the union’s Eastern region to develop apprenticeships across the region.
“UNISON has been working on encouraging employers to commit to supporting apprenticeships and ensuring that all apprentices are treated fairly and consistently and have a positive experience,” he told the local East Anglian Daily Times.
“I have been into many workplaces and seen how widely this varies.
“The model agreement will be an essential tool in maximising the benefits to the organisation and the individual.”
UNISON, the council and individual apprentices will be parties to the agreement which sets out clear commitments for each of them for a consistent and supportive approach to employing apprentices.