More than 100 apprentices left in the lurch by the closure of Aberdeen organisation ITCA are likely to be offered several routes back into training.
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) said it was “encouraged” by the amount of interest other training providers have shown in the apprentices.
SDS, which delivers the Scottish Government’s Modern Apprenticeship programme, said it would weigh up a range of factors before deciding on the best option.
ITCA opened in the north-east in 1989 and became one of the biggest engineering apprenticeship firms in Scotland.
But the centre was hit hard by the downturn and the subsequent drop in spending on training programmes, as well as an increase in business rates.
The organisation tried to lower its cost base, but its efforts ultimately fell short.
Its liquidation put 10 staff members out of work and left 125 apprentices scrambling to find places at other centres.
A spokeswoman for SDS said a number of training organisations have since come forward to offer assistance.
The spokeswoman said SDS was still consulting the apprentices’ employers and other training providers as it looks for a positive outcome.
She said: “We are working with the provisional liquidator, the apprentices’ employers and other training providers so those affected can complete their Modern Apprenticeship.
“This includes close consultation with employers to understand their requirements and preferences for alternative training providers.
“We have been encouraged by the number of training providers who have stepped forward offering their services and support for the affected apprentices.
“SDS will consider a range of factors for the apprentice transfers, including the type of training offered by each alternative provider, employer preferences and importantly the providers’ performance as we work to secure alternative provision.”
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