There are currently no plans for the Department to assess the potential effect that advances in robotics will have on job opportunities for apprentices.

One of the key principles in our 2020 Vision for Apprenticeships in England is that employers are in control of designing apprenticeships so that they focus on exactly the skills, knowledge and behaviours that are required of the workforce of the future.

Employers are developing new high level standards in a wide range of sectors and in many occupations where there was previously no apprenticeships provision.

New standards such as the degree level Embedded Electronic Systems Design or Development Engineer are vital for the robotics sector.

An assessment has not been made of the potential effect that advances in robotics will have on job opportunities for low-skilled apprenticeship graduates.

Employers know the skills they need better than anyone else, which is why they are developing the new apprenticeship standards which describe the skills, knowledge and behaviours an apprentice needs to be competent in a defined occupation.

The 2020 Vision sets out the key elements of our strategy to further address skills shortages and stimulate economic growth through reforms to apprenticeships. Standards have already been developed in sectors where they have not been used before, ensuring the benefits are felt across the economy.

Our strategy will ensure employers have the opportunity to develop and access the skills they need by increasing the relevance and quality of apprenticeships.