Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the right hon. Member for Carshalton and Wallington, representing the House of Commons Commission, what outreach work is being carried out to encourage people to become apprentices in the House of Commons.

Staff from the House Service work closely with the providers and the House of Commons recruitment team to ensure vacancies are published to as broad an audience as possible. Staff are also working alongside Amazing Apprenticeships who work with over 3,500 schools and colleges nationally to reach those who may not instantly think the House of Commons is for them, by creating a short film which will tour schools in time for National Apprenticeship Week this year.

Staff will be attending a recruitment fair in Newham during National Apprenticeship Week and, with Newham College, staff are attending local jobs fairs aimed at 16–24 year olds over the coming months.

In addition, the House of Commons’ first apprentice ambassador will be speaking at school events across London, talking about her experience as an apprentice at the House of Commons and her career with us since. A House representative will also be speaking at an event for teachers and careers advisors to engage them with the work of Parliament and the opportunities for their students.

We also hold a biannual recruitment fair which gives us an opportunity to speak to visitors about the House of Commons apprenticeships as well as the wider roles available.

The House of Commons is working closely with the House of Lords, the Parliamentary Digital Service and our providers to share learning and where possible work together on outreach.