York is planning to fight the recession with a challenge to employers to take on 100 apprentices.
The York Apprenticeship Challenge, launched by the City of York Council and the National Apprenticeship Service, aims to find 100 new apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days.
The council is offering 30 new apprenticeship places to get the challenge started.
Council leader James Alexander said: “I would encourage as many businesses as possible throughout the city to get involved in the York Apprenticeship Challenge, and find out more about the potential benefits of taking on an apprentice.
“This represents an investment not only in young people but in the economic wellbeing of York.”
Nick Wilson, regional director of the National Apprenticeship Service, said the challenge was launched to coincide with young people finishing their exams.
He added: “Apprentices really can make a difference to an organisation from day one.
“More and more businesses and organisations are realising that apprenticeships are key to a highly skilled and focused workforce, but we still need more which is why we are supporting the York Apprenticeship Challenge.
“Apprenticeships benefit the employer but can also make a difference to the future workforce of York, and we urge more employers to recruit apprentices to bridge skills gaps and to give people a good foundation for a successful career.”
The National Apprenticeship Service says every £1 of public money spent on apprenticeships generates up to £40 for the economy.
Sally Featherstone was offered an apprenticeship working in a pub kitchen whilst doing a cookery course for one day a week at York College.
She said: “I was very happy with the course and it was great earning money whilst learning.
“It is great to know I have very employable skills.”