South Scotland Labour MSP Colin Smyth has celebrated Scottish Apprenticeship Week today on a visit to Farries, Kirk and McVean Chartered Accountants in Dumfries.

Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2019 runs from the 4^th to the 8^th of March and aims to promote the benefits of apprenticeships to both individuals and organisations.

Colin Smyth MSP visited Farries, Kirk and McVean Accountants in Dumfries where he met Beth and Lyndsay who are currently completing their AAT Accountancy Apprenticeship. Both Beth and Lyndsay attend Carlisle College for four hours a week while gaining practical experience working at Farries, Kirk and McVean.

Colin Smyth said, “It was great to meet Beth and Lyndsay to hear about how an apprenticeship has allowed them to enter a career that they are keen to pursue, while working at Farries, Kirk and McVean. Beth and Lyndsay both prove that an apprenticeship isn’t just about getting into trades, with more and more industries offering apprenticeships as a first step on the career ladder.

Many local businesses struggle to recruit the expertise they need in their business. Farries, Kirk and McVean are able to use the Accountancy Apprenticeships to home grow the expertise they need, while providing more opportunities for young people.

Skills Development Scotland Chief Executive, Damien Yeates said, “Work-based learning is providing the skills needed for a successful Scotland.

“The theme for this year is ‘Skills for the Future’ which recognises the importance of investing in our workforce.

“We want more people and businesses across Scotland to benefit from the growing number of opportunities available in different sectors and workplaces.”