A new apprenticeship hub has opened in Leeds which aims to give local businesses free and impartial advice about any issues related to apprenticeships.
The hub will match young people aged 16-24 with SMEs across the city. It has already worked with over 60 businesses looking to start apprenticeship schemes and has registered 450 young people through the various workshops and events it has held.
Councillor Lucinda Yeado said: “The Apprenticeship HUB is a great resource for businesses and young people alike. In Leeds we want to dramatically increase numbers of young people accessing apprenticeship opportunities in the city and grow the number of businesses that are delivering apprenticeships as part of delivering our ambition to become a NEET (young person not in education, employment or training) free City by 2015.
“Already this year the city has taken great strides in seeking to reduce youth unemployment among 16-24 year olds, and helping those who may need additional support to make the choices that help them to progress.”
