NSAFS executive director Nigel Benton said: “Apprenticeships are far more relevant to the financial services sector than the majority of employers realise. Our message to them is please give it a chance; have a chat with us and let us point you in the right direction.”

London Assembly’s Economy Committee has launched an investigation into apprenticeships in London.

Thinking about employing an apprentice? Check out these five need-to-know facts to guide you through the hiring process.

According to new research released as part of the third annual City and Guilds Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list, 19% of employers have apprentices working in senior management roles.

Speaking at a Berkeley Foundation and Mayor’s Fund for London Leadership briefing on youth employment, London’s deputy mayor for business and enterprise, Kit Malthouse said that SMEs are not doing their bit to help the NEET generation.

Councillor Shan Alexander, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Achievement, said: “I’m delighted that the Council has launched the UK’s first independent Apprenticeship Store which will have a really positive impact.”