A SCHEME that makes it easier for small to medium sized businesses to recruit apprentices has reached a major milestone.
One hundred SMEs have signed up to take on an apprentice through the Barnsley Apprenticeship Hub Programme – which is half way to reaching its overall target.
The programme provides free and independent advice to SMEs who want to find out about the benefits and practical steps involved in recruiting an apprentice.
Now, more SMEs are being urged to sign up to the scheme. Barnsley Apprenticeship Hub is based at First For Apprenticeships Barnsley at www.firstforapprenticeshipsbarnsley.co.uk on Regent Street.
Heather Lord, hub manager, said: "Apprenticeships are a great way of growing your business, developing new talent and tackling skills shortages."Ricki Reckless, a director at Wentworth Steels, said: "Our apprentices have brought youth and enthusiasm to the team.
"The roles they have are vital to the day to day running of the business and will grow as they become more experienced - hopefully to the point that more apprenticeship opportunities will be available at Wentworth Steels."
