HARLOW MP Rob Halfon and the National Union of Students have launched a new apprentice society and discount card to boost the status of skills-based training.
Developed with partner employers including GTA England, PERA and Harlow College, the new Apprenticeship Society and its membership card is seen a skills-based equivalent to the NUS and its Extra card.
The card will give members similar benefits including high street discounts and access to events, while the society will provide a charitable fund to improve the learning experience of apprentices.
Mr Halfon told the Star: "For many months I have worked with the NUS and employers to develop a national society of apprentices, starting with the Apprentice Card.
"The card will finally put apprentices on a level playing-field with students, with the same financial benefits."
Skills minister John Hayes, who helped launch the initiative at a reception at the House of Commons, said the ard would tackle a perceived gap in prestige between academic and skills-based qualifications.
