Local MP raises concerns about apprenticeship changes and opportunities for young people following visit to local business, Ventrolla.

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has raised concerns with the Pat
McFadden, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, about proposed changes to
apprenticeship assessments, following a visit to Harrogate-based heritage restoration
company Ventrolla.

During the visit, Tom met members of the Ventrolla team, including employees who had
completed the company’s apprenticeship programme. The visit highlighted the importance of
apprenticeships in developing specialist heritage skills and providing opportunities for young
people in the region.

Ventrolla’s senior leadership raised concerns about proposed reforms to apprenticeship
assessments. Under the changes currently being considered, apprentices may only need to
demonstrate 30–40% of the required Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours, compared to the
current requirement to demonstrate full occupational competence.

The proposals could also remove “behaviours” from the formal assessment process and
reduce employer involvement in the development of End Point Assessments.

Speaking in Parliament this week, Tom highlighted concerns raised by businesses in the
sector, including potential safety risks and the impact on practical skills training. He urged
ministers to work closely with industry to ensure reforms do not undermine the quality of
apprenticeships or opportunities for young people.

Reforms to apprenticeship assessments were first announced by the Department for
Education and the Minister for Skills in February 2025, with further details confirmed in
December 2025. Industry bodies, including the British Woodworking Federation, have
emphasised that maintaining occupational competence must remain central to the
apprenticeship system.

Commenting, Tom Gordon MP said:
“Ventrolla is a fantastic example of the heritage craftsmanship we are proud to have in
Harrogate. Apprenticeships are vital for passing on the specialist skills needed to maintain
these traditional trades.

“They also provide an important pathway for young people to develop practical skills and
build rewarding careers.

“If the Government is serious about delivering economic growth, we must ensure
apprenticeships continue to provide high-quality training. Proposed changes risk diluting
expertise and creating future skills gaps.

“It is vital that the Government works with businesses to ensure industry voices are heard
when setting mandatory standards for apprenticeships.”

Mark Flanagan, Managing Director of Ventrolla said:
“The proposed changes risk weakening a system that underpins confidence, quality and
safety across our sector, which runs counter to the Government’s ambition for growth.

We have several apprentices with us at the moment, and providing the training is something
we are passionate about continuing. Ensuring the correct assessments and competency
levels is vital for companies like ours, working with life safety critical machinery.”