Fleur Anderson Lauds Local Apprenticeship Schemes

Putney MP celebrates South Thames College's Green Construction Lab

Fleur Anderson talks with apprentices

February 21, 2025

Fleur Anderson MP has praised the impact of local apprenticeship schemes, highlighting their role as part of National Apprenticeship Week.

During a visit to South Thames College in December, the Putney MP attended the unveiling of South Thames College’s state-of-the-art Green Construction Lab.

The Green Construction Lab serves as a hub for innovation in sustainable construction and renewable energy training. The facility will host an array of courses designed to equip students and professionals with vital green skills. These include:
• Level 2 Retrofitting (Jan Start)
• Level 3 Retrofit Advisor (Jan Start)
• Design and Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Systems (Jan Start)
• Level 3 Domestic Energy Assessment (April Start)
• Level 3 Solar PV Systems Installation (April Start)

The facility is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices and Net Zero initiatives, offering specialised training in green skills such as retrofitting, domestic energy assessment, and solar PV system installation. The initiative underscores the importance of preparing the workforce for a rapidly evolving job market with a focus on sustainability.

She also met recently met with three constituents who work at Nando’s head office in Putney to discuss the company’s apprenticeship initiatives at the Hospitality Apprenticeship Showcase, which works to connect MPs with apprentices working in their constituencies.

Ms Anderson said, “As a mum of an 18 year old looking for apprenticeships right now I can see how important they are and how many more opportunities there are. There are apprenticeships in firms from law to childcare, and hospitality to engineering, and I fully support this growth of different routes into work.

“I am a huge advocate for apprenticeships and joining South Thames College, where they are at the forefront of green apprenticeship provision, right in the heart of Wandsworth, was inspiring. We need young people with these skills, earning whilst they learn and feeling empowered to achieve. I am delighted to see the commitment of South Thames College and local employers in providing these invaluable opportunities.

“From construction to green energy, these schemes not only support career development but also address skills shortages in key sectors. They are absolutely critical to the future of Putney’s workforce. I encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship to explore the fantastic courses available.”

The local MP also marked National Apprenticeship Week by backing the government’s overhaul of the apprenticeship system . It is aiming to slash bureaucratic red tape that has hindered businesses from taking on more apprentices. Reforms include the introduction of shorter apprenticeships for greater flexibility, reducing administrative burdens, and modernising apprenticeship training to align with the industries of the future. Additionally, a new digital platform will provide a ‘one-stop shop’ for apprentices, offering tools, resources, and support at their fingertips.

Fleur Anderson (centre) meeting people to talk about apprenticeships

A key reform will bring English and Maths requirements in line with other qualifications, unlocking apprenticeships for up to ten thousand more young people, including those in Wandsworth.

Ms Anderson added, “I’m delighted that this Government is making such common-sense changes to the way we offer apprenticeships. These changes will remove barriers to people and help them join our workforce with confidence, unlocking so much potential.
I’d encourage all residents to look into apprenticeships at excellent places like South Thames College, as well as Roehampton University, the biggest employer in Putney.”

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson MP, said, “Apprenticeships will power this mission-driven government and our Plan for Change. “The steps we are taking show we are serious about going further and faster in our pursuit of growth, so we can put money in working people’s pockets and raise living standards.”