Apprentice girls fail to last course
THE number of women finishing apprenticeships has dropped to the lowest level for seven years, figures reveal.
The 7986 recorded in 2017-18 was more than 400 fewer than the previous year’s total of 8429.
Skills Minister Jamie Hepburn told the Scottish Parliament the number of females completing apprenticeships was the lowest since 2011-12.
Labour education spokeswoman Mary Fee said: “These figures should be a real cause for concern.
“We should be taking every step possible to ensure opportunities for women.
“One factor might be the rising cost of living, with some apprentices simply not being able to afford to finish their scheme.”