OUR campaign to have 100 Worcestershire businesses take on apprentices in 100 days has made an encouraging start.

Within a week of the launch five companies have signed up and more are in the pipeline.

Companies which have so far taken on apprentices are Browns Restaurant, of Worcester; Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce; the Conservatory, of Worcester; Garden and Hires Spares, which is based at Cotheridge, near Worcester, and the French Connection Baguette Shop, of Worcester.

Between them they have engaged 11 new apprentices in areas ranging from hospitality to warehousing.

The 100 in 100 campaign aims to benefit the business community, young people and the local economy by giving school leavers their first step on to the jobs ladder, supporting young people into education and a lifelong career and providing tools for businesses to grow their workforce and increase productivity.

Among those who have taken part in an apprenticeship programme is Siân Webley, who won commerce apprentice of the year at Worcester Group Training Awards and is employed by NHS Worcestershire as an administrative support officer but is also training to be a medical secretary.

She said: “I’ve found the style of learning throughout my apprenticeship beneficial as I’ve learned to manage my time and workload efficiently.

“Becoming an apprentice has enabled me to obtain vital experience in the workplace, without which I would not be where I am today. I would highly recommend an apprenticeship.”

Just finished his apprenticeship is James Nairn, who is employed by Worcester Bosch Group. He started without company sponsorship and did his first year of training in WGTA’s training centre.

He was then approached by the heating giant which was looking for a control systems apprentice and offered him employment.

“I chose an apprenticeship in engineering because it’s a good way to gain experience while you learn from all the opportunities available,” said James, who has completed his national certificate, an NVQ 3 and a foundation degree in mechatronics.

“I enjoy working at Bosch because, as a worldwide company, there are many chances to move to other sectors of the company and learn new skills.”

Frances Roberts, Worcestershire employer services manager for the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “It is pleasing so many learning providers and partners are working with the NAS and the Worcester News to engage with more employers in Worcestershire to offer a career pathway for young people and for those employers to reap the benefits apprenticeships bring to their business.”