THE Modern Apprentice Programme is set to be discussed by North Ayrshire Council's Cabinet, a week after two political groups in the area raised the issue.

The Scottish Socialist Party and RISE group are concerned about the £3.30 an hour pay for Modern Apprentices and the council aim to improve the programme,

As one of the area’s largest employers, over the last three years there have been 253 Modern Apprentices positions created and the Cabinet will consider plans to recruit an extra 250 Modern Apprentices over the next three years in addition to increasing the salary to the minimum wage for the particular age group.

The new model is hoped to provide more young people with skills and work experience in a range of sectors across the council such as business administration, catering and construction.

This will consist of a new marketing campaign to promote the opportunities available to young people and pre-employment training, along with an increase in the range of apprenticeships on offer and a three month intensive support near the completion of the apprenticeship.

Councillor Marie Burns, North Ayrshire Council, Cabinet Member for Economy & Employment, said: “It is only right that as one of the largest employers in the area we show our commitment to young people.

“If these proposals go through, we will be helping to launch the careers of 85 young people each year for the next three years. It’s important that our approach is inclusive and to ensure every young person is given the opportunity to kick start their employment journey.

“The review of our current programme, will further enhance our already robust apprenticeships which offer pre-employment training to help young people gain a full-time position.”

In addition, the council plan to invest resources to support local unemployed people over the next five years, with a package of council and EU funding totalling £5.1million.