The principal of Shipley College has welcomed the additional support for apprenticeships outlined in the Budget.

Chancellor George Osborne promised an extra 40,000 annual apprenticeship places.

Shipley College principal Nav Chohan said: “An apprenticeship enhances the skills and training of young people and gives them the opportunity to experience employment while receiving continued support and spending one day a week at the college. We welcome Government plans to grow this vital method of developing skills.”

But Mr Chohan warned funding shortfalls were continuing to cause difficulties in the further education sector.

He said: “There are clearly ongoing funding challenges across the public sector.

“Shipley College is working tirelessly to ensure these cuts are not felt by our learners and that the quality of our provision is always improving.

“However, adult learning and training opportunities are as important as ever.”