Funding boost will see 500 more apprentices

The Government is putting more money into its Modern Apprentices programme because of higher than expected demand.

Tertiary Education Minister Steve Maharey said the programme was getting a $600,000 boost.

New funding of $650,000 was provided in the May budget for the 2003/04 financial year.

However, trainee numbers had grown rapidly -- the June target of 5000 apprentices was achieved in March and by June there were 5739 apprentices.

Mr Maharey said the extra funding would pay for another 500 new apprenticeships.

By June 30, 2004 a total of 6500 apprenticeships were expected to be in place.

Funding already allocated in this year's budget for 2004/05 and 2005/06 would support 7500 apprenticeships by June 2006.

Modern Apprenticeships were available in 28 industries including agriculture, boatbuilding, food processing and tourism.

Those aged 16 to 21 can take part.

- NZPA