Have you considered an apprentice?

Businesses are being encouraged to give an apprentice the opportunity to shine, through a campaign being supported by Shropshire Council.

Grants are available for businesses who take on an apprentice, and many employers are unaware of the incentives on offer, according to the National Apprenticeship Service.

The Apprenticeship 100 in 100 campaign aims to find 100 placements for apprentices in 100 days – and Shropshire has now achieved this target after launching the campaign earlier this year.

Just as importantly, more than 200 enquiries have been made by businesses interested in taking on an apprentice.

An event for employers who would like to know more about apprenticeships is taking place at Telford and Wrekin Council’s headquarters at the Civic Offices in Telford on Tuesday 22 May 2012 from 3pm to 4.30pm.

It’s free to attend, but places are limited so anyone interested should email alison.price@telford.gov.uk

Karen Burgoyne, Shropshire Council’s deputy Cabinet member responsible for post-14 and further education, said:

“Apprentices can be a really useful addition to a business.  They can be an enthusiastic and motivated part of the workforce, and on top of this businesses can get some financial assistance to help them with any set-up costs that may arise.  I would encourage as many employers as possible to consider this, not only as a boost for their own business, but also as a way to give a young person a way in to what is an incredibly tough jobs market at the moment.”