The Borders Technical Training Association Ltd (BTTA) has welcomed the new Labour training strategy, highlighting its focus on apprenticeships and technical education.

Based in Tweedbank in the Scottish Borders, BTTA provides Modern Apprenticeship and engineering training from its purpose-built training centre, which opened in April this year.

The organisation said the increased emphasis on apprenticeships could provide young people with an alternative route into successful careers without requiring a university education.

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BTTA Group Training Director Russell Coleman said: "The shift in emphasis towards apprenticeships and technical training by the Government is to be welcomed. University is not for everyone and many young people can begin a very successful career by following the apprenticeship route. Not only do they gain valuable skills with on the job training but they obtain a nationally recognised qualification as well being paid.

"With the growth of AI many traditional white collar jobs are under threat. However, jobs such as plumbing, welding and joinery are predicted to thrive in future. Contrast this with the many students who leave university and struggle to find fulfilling employment whilst being saddled with huge debts."