News release

Apprenticeship System Review Seeks Public Input

Labour and Advanced Education (Jan. 2011 - Aug. 2021)

A comprehensive review of the province's apprenticeship program is helping ensure Nova Scotians continue to learn the right skills for good jobs.

Industry groups, employers, tradespeople and apprentices are encouraged to provide input as the province enhances the apprenticeship system to help strengthen the workforce.

"Nova Scotia needs a skilled workforce to seize the opportunities of today and tomorrow," said Marilyn More, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. "Apprenticeship continues to be a tried and tested way to gain the right skills for a good job in the trades. We would like input from everyone involved to make sure our system continues to meet the needs of industry, employers and apprentices."

It has been more than 10 years since the last complete review of apprenticeship in Nova Scotia. While preliminary research shows how the current system is working well, it also highlights where the province should focus attention, such as on employer engagement and completion rates. The review will also help identify ways the province can work with partners to capitalize on new economic opportunities and meet the challenges of an aging population.

People involved with, or interested in, apprenticeship can provide feedback about a discussion paper online or through a series of feedback sessions being held at Nova Scotia Community College campuses across the province.

"Trades offer a great opportunity to grow Nova Scotia's economy with meaningful jobs," said Norm Kemp, chair, Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Board. "We already have an effective system in place, but this review will help ensure it remains current and continues to reflects the needs of industry."

The review is part of the one-time additional $2.5-million investment in apprenticeship through jobsHere, the province's plan to grow the economy. It also directly supports the recently released workforce strategy.

The discussion paper and a full list of locations and dates of the information sessions are available at http://nsapprenticeship.ca/apprenticeship_system_review.shtml .

Submissions will be accepted until Jan. 20. For more information, call 1-800-494-5651 (toll free).