Apprentices from New City College had the opportunity to quiz Sir Keir Starmer on apprenticeships, skills, and work opportunities during a session at Downing Street.
The group, studying at New City College’s specialist construction and engineering campus in Rainham and at NCC Hackney Campus, was invited for an informal Q&A in response to recent government announcements on the new Youth Guarantee.
This policy aims to ensure every young person has access to training, education, or tailored support into work.
One electrical apprentice with PIP Mechanical & Electrical Engineers started the conversation with Sir Keir by asking about support for companies to create more apprenticeship vacancies.
The PM was also asked if additional funding would be made available to expand college facilities due to rising demand for construction skills.
A New City College spokesperson said Sir Keir assured the group that apprenticeships and technical training remain a priority for the government.
The importance of equipping young people with the necessary skills for work was also recognised.
The apprentices, who usually work four days a week and spend one day at college, are training in trades such as electrical installation, bricklaying, painting and decorating, and engineering.
New City College is one of just 10 national construction technical excellence colleges, providing facilities and pathways for young people, adults, and apprentices to gain the skills needed in London and the wider region.
