Graham Simpson MSP has visited the New College Lanarkshire campus in Motherwell to meet Modern Apprentices who are earning while they learn to coincide with Scottish Apprenticeship Week (March 6–10).

The annual celebration of apprenticeship programmes, which is organised by Skills Development Scotland, shines a spotlight on the contributions made to individuals, businesses and the economy.

New College Lanarkshire currently trains more than 700 Modern Apprentices in partnership with Skills Development Scotland and through a range of commercial contracts.

Mr Simpson, who is one of three Scottish Conservative regional list MSPs representing Central Scotland, said: “I was keen to visit the College to see the range of courses they offer and some of the innovative work that they do.

“I could not fail to be impressed by what I saw and I accept this only scratches the surface of what the College does.

“The facilities are first-rate and the training offered to apprentices is second-to-none. Be it in IT or car mechanics, or fitting security systems, the College is offering people a great start to their working life, or a route to university.

“I think apprenticeship programmes are vital. They are great for employers, who get the employees with the right training and high level of expertise and, clearly, they are great for those students, too.

“I look forward to further visits to the College.”

Mr Simpson chatted with lecturers and apprentices in electrical installation, electronic fire & security and vehicle maintenance.

Matthew Smith, head of faculty of computing & creative industries at New College Lanarkshire, said: “I was delighted to welcome Graham Simpson MSP to our Motherwell Campus.

“He was able to see some of the work we do in Creative Industries, Engineering, Construction and Automotive to build the skills of our students in these areas, which are vital to Scotland’s economy.

“It was great that he was able to meet with some of our apprentices and witness the cutting-edge skills they are learning for today’s job market.”