COUNTY Training, the largest training provider in Shropshire, today announced a new grant scheme for businesses taking on apprentices.

County Training in partnership with the National Apprenticeship Service is offering employers up to £2,500 to if they take on an unemployed 16 or 17 year old as an apprentice.

Last year, despite tough labour market conditions, more than 70,000 16 and 17 year olds started an appprenticeship.

Ann Jones, engagement and  recruitment manager at County Training, part of Shropshire Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for businesses in Shropshire, in addition to the £2500 grant, the cost of the young persons training programme is also covered by the National Apprenticeship Service.

“We recognise the particular issues faced by young people in the current economic climate and we want to support them and ensure that we are training a new generation for economic recovery.

“This initiative is a short-term measure and will only be available until the end of March 2010, so if businesses are interested in being involved, we would advise them to make contact now.”

Employers will receive the grant in two payments – £1,500 when the young person starts their apprenticeship and a further £1,000 after 12 weeks

Apprenticeships are proving valuable in many sectors of industry and commerce – in traditional areas as well as more contemporary professions. There are over 180 apprenticeships available across more than 80 industry sectors and they are fast becoming one of the key tools in raising workforce skill levels nationally.

Councillor Steve Charmley, portfolio holder for culture and leisure added: “I would encourage all Shropshire businesses recruiting young people to take advantage of this grant and the great opportunity the apprenticeship scheme provides”.

l For information please contact County Training: 01743 255191