As part of Apprenticeship Week 2023, South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth visited award winning Wise Owls Nursery and Out of School Club in Moffat on Friday, where he met with some of the apprentices working at the nursery.

Apprenticeship Week, which ran from 6-10 March, showed how apprenticeships are unlocking potential in people and businesses.

It was a celebration of how apprentices and employers flourish through work-based learning. It highlighted how learning providers support apprentices to achieve.

The nursery in Moffat currently has six Modern Apprentices working towards their Social Services (Children & Young People) qualifications.

Colin Smyth said: “It was fantastic to be able to visit Wise Owls Nursery in Moffat and speak to some of their amazing apprentices.

“Under Catherine’s inspiring leadership, the nursery has helped fill a growing demand for childcare in the area, which is so important to help people into work, and I’m keen to support them through the challenges they face as hopefully that growth continues.

“The young people I met on my visit were a great example of how important apprenticeship programmes are and I wish them every success in future.

“Apprenticeship Week is always a fantastic celebration of work-based learning and just how important apprentices are to our local businesses.”

Chair of Skills Development Scotland, Frank Mitchell, said: “Designed by industry, for industry, apprenticeships not only help the economy but also create sustainable jobs across all parts of Scotland. These opportunities have been taken by individuals from across society, including many young people traditionally with restricted opportunities to progress who have gone onto flourish in the workplace.

“These are real jobs backed by employers who contribute £10 for every £1 spent by government, and at the same time apprentices contribute by paying their taxes.

“Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce through work-based learning is benefiting employers as apprentices enable them to adapt and sustain their business.”