Councils in North Yorkshire are celebrating helping hundreds of young people become apprentices with local businesses thanks to thousands of pounds in support.

Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils say more opportunities are on offer as part of National Apprenticeship Week.

For the past five years, Richmondshire has supported more than 100 local businesses to take on apprentices with backing of up to £3,000 towards costs. They include the Dales Bike Centre in Reeth, the Wensleydale Brewery in Leyburn, Star MX in Catterick and the Yorebridge House Hotel in Bainbridge, which has two apprentices, including the general manager, who is undertaking a level six degree level apprenticeship.

“These businesses demonstrate some of the many types of apprenticeship courses that are available and also the various ways that courses can be studied, including online, from a greater number of training providers,” said Sue White, head of business and community.

“The growth in online courses is positive for businesses in the more remote areas of our district where travel into colleges can be difficult. This scheme helps our local businesses grow, the district to retain talent and the apprentices themselves have the potential to develop over a number of years with a supportive employer.”

Councillor Angie Dale, leader of the council, added: “It is important to share local success stories and we hope people are encouraged to think about apprenticeships once they have had a look at our social media campaign. There is a wealth of both practical and financial support out there and now is a great time to take the plunge.”

Hambleton District Council says this year's "Skills for Life" scheme shows how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career and help businesses develop a talented workforce equipped with skills for the future.

The council’s apprentice scheme provides grant aid to small Hambleton-based businesses in a bid to create new opportunities for 16 to 24-year-olds living in the district. They say it has already financially assisted more than 250 businesses since its launch ten years ago, employing apprentices in a variety of roles including accountancy, administration, construction, IT, dental nursing, digital marketing, hairdressing, hospitality and the motor trade.

Councillor Peter Wilkinson, deputy leader of Hambleton District Council, said: “We know that further studies through A-levels and university is not for everyone and it is important that young people do something that is right for them.

“Apprenticeships offer a real job with hands on experience, a salary and a chance to train whilst you work. We are encouraging local businesses to consider this route by offering those that meet our criteria financial support to do just that.”

The wage subsidy grant of £2,000 supports small businesses that have been trading for at least three months, with priority given to those employing less than 20. The apprenticeship role must be for at least one year with the apprentice working for at least 30 hours per week.

The apprenticeship schemes are open until the end of March, contact https://www.richmondshire.gov.uk/business-and-economy/economic-development-and-business-support/apprenticeships/ or https://www.hambleton.gov.uk/site-search/results/?q=Apprenticeships