The HGV driver training apprenticeship has been given the official go ahead with the government’s confirmation of apprenticeship funding today.

The department will fund 100% of apprenticeship training for companies with fewer than 50 employees taking on candidates aged 16-18, as well as committing more than £60m of funding for training in poorer areas of the UK.

The RHA welcomed the announcement, having previously called for the government avoid any delay.

Director of policy Jack Semple told Motortransport.co.uk: “This is hugely important for the road haulage industry and the way it recruits and trains new entrants. It will benefit the UK economy, the firms and the individuals.

“It opens up a massive opportunity, not only for large firms but smaller firms, right down to owner –drivers who may want to bring a son or daughter into the business.”

As well as driver training, the industry will see the introduction of apprenticeships for warehousing and traffic office work.