IPSWICH: Nearly 50 young people will soon be starting on the road to a successful career – just two weeks since the launch of our new apprentice campaign.

Our 100 in 100 campaign – aimed at creating 100 new opportunities for aspiring workers in 100 days – is today forging forward towards success.

So far, the campaign has already created 46 opportunities at companies across the region.

Teresa Logan, of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “We are delighted with how things have been going, the campaign is really having a fantastic impact.

“The response has been amazing and it is great to see so many businesses getting involved, it really reflects their commitment to the younger generations.

“We ideally want to bust the 100 target and if this response is anything to go by then we won’t have any problems.”

Last year, there were 3,700 apprentices taken on in Suffolk. The National Apprenticeship Service is aiming to develop that even further.

Suffolk New College and University Campus Suffolk (UCS) are the latest in a long line of companies that have stepped up in support of our campaign, both of which already employ a number of apprentices.

Marcus Simpkin, 20, from Rendlesham, and Josh Griffin, 19, from Ipswich, have both embarked upon an IDEA Apprenticeship at the two institutions.

Professor Mike Saks, provost of UCS, said: “Developing the right skills is critical to the success of any business and UCS is proud to support apprenticeships as a learning opportunity.”

Ipswich Hospital, Ipswich Building Society and Otley College have all stepped up to the plate and committed to taking on a new junior member of staff.

In addition, Ipswich MP Ben Gummer has also pledged to take on an apprentice to help him with campaigns and research.

The new apprentices will be provided with the training they need to develop the skills that will earn them a living for years to come.

n Anyone looking to become an apprentice should register their details at www.apprenticeships.org.uk

n Businesses looking to take on an apprentice should send an e-mail to starnews@eveningstar.co.uk. Alternatively ring 01473 324788