Signing up to an annual direct debit payment plan from your energy supplier is supposed to help prevent bill shock as your payments are spread equally throughout the year. But it might not work like that...
Apprenticeship numbers increase
More than half a million people started an apprenticeship in the past year, with strong growth at advanced and higher levels, according to new figures.
There has been an increase in the number of apprentices, figures show
More than half a million people started an apprenticeship in the past year, with strong growth at advanced and higher levels, according to new figures.
The Government said the increase of almost 50,000 compared with the 2010/11 academic year was a "momentous" achievement.
Skills minister Matthew Hancock said: "It shows our passion for skills, and is a ringing endorsement from employers and apprentices alike, who are reaping the benefits of a more highly-skilled workforce.
"I am particularly pleased to see such a big increase in the number of people signing up for advanced level and higher level apprenticeships, which open the road for people wanting to become engineers, lawyers and accountants."
Tess Lanning, senior research fellow at the IPPR think tank, commented: "The increase in apprenticeships is very welcome, but much of that growth has come from over 25s, rather than in places for young people.
"Over 25s now take 44% of all apprenticeships. What's more, workplace skills training for adults has fallen by 275,400 places, suggesting that employers have simply shifted their workers on to apprenticeships in order to continue getting government funding."
related stories on msn
0Comments
latest money videos
more on msn money
The iconic Cotchford Farm in East Sussex goes up for sale for £2 million.
We look at which option will bag you a nicer home in a better neighbourhood.
Whether you have credit card debts or an overdraft or a stack of store credit, you can get back in the black for very little cost.
Because the sun has to shine eventually...
Nearly half of UK households say that they would struggle to cope if their monthly outgoings rose by £99. We look at how you can create some financial 'breathing space' to help you out if you lose your job or become ill.
Avoid these mistakes if you want to lead a richer life!
Save regularly to nab a leading easy access ISA rate from Newcastle Building Society and the chance to earn up to £1,000 cashback.
Barclaycard is now offering a record 27 interest-free months to pay off your debts.
The taxman says three and a half million people are due a refund, but two million will have to fork out for underpaid tax.
Fed up with low savings rates and high borrowing rates? As Dave Fishwick and his Bank of Dave has demonstrated, there are other options out there.
If you want to find a unique property bargain, there is plenty of help available online - you just need to know where to look.
