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GTA England has launched an Apprentice extra card. Apprentice extra will offer vocational learners the same discounts and benefits as other students, and money generated from sales of the card will go towards funding a National Society for Apprentices.
“Despite 81% of apprentices falling into the 16-24 age group, with many earning only the minimum apprentice wage, apprentices do not generally have access to typical student benefits such as bank accounts and other discounts offered to other young people who are in higher education.”
The Apprentice extra card provides discounts on a variety of essentials from more than 120 high street and online retail partners. Used wisely discounts can save card holders around £525 per year. Discounts are available on travel, sport, books and DVD, technology, mobile and broadband, as well as fashion, beauty and going out.
Apprenticeships are on the increase, and research has shown that being an apprentice is perceived as a positive career choice. Research also highlighted a high demand for more support for apprentices. Respondents felt that a national society would give apprentices a stronger identity, a better image and more respect, as well as a voice to represent the interest of apprentices nationally, including political representation.
Apprentices are at the top of the coalition government skills agenda. In 2009-10 there was a total of just under 500,000 apprentices, with more than 279,000 apprenticeship starts in that year, an increase of over 16% on the previous year, and the UK government is committed to seeing these numbers increase further.
Apprentice extra costs just £11 per year and gives access to over 120 high street and online retailers. For further information on Apprentice extra visit www.apprenticeextra.co.uk for a full list of discounts and to calculate how much you can save. |