Many frontline council employees now benefit from professional support and qualifications in the roles they deliver. It's disappointing therefore, that such significant progress may now be under threat from the new apprenticeship levy.

The new levy does reflect the success and growing interest in vocational training from both employers and prospective employees. However, as government seeks to create opportunities for three million new apprentices, especially school leavers, there is a danger that this could jeopardise those already being employed.