A CHALLENGE to secure 100 apprenticeship pledges in York in 100 days has been met - with 29 days still to go.

In 71 days the campaign, which started during National Apprenticeship Week and is led by City of York Council, has sourced 100 opportunities for apprentices to work with business in the area.

Businesses which have pledged to recruit an apprentice include; Minster Electrical, International Service, Papa Kata, Curtain Up Ltd and Business Support York and North Yorkshire.

Councillor Janet Looker, the council’s cabinet member for Education, Children and Young People said while the 100 target has been hit the campaign is still running for the duration of the 100 days, with hopes to get yet more pledges.

She said: “This is great news and I would like to thank all the businesses who have supported this campaign so far.

"One of the key priorities of the council is securing jobs and growth and it is pleasing to see so many local businesses support such a campaign.

"It is hoped that such vacancies across the city in a variety of sectors will help to keep young talent in York and offer them opportunities across the city. "

The one hundredth pledge came from Business Support York and North Yorkshire, which is based at York Eco Business Centre, and is looking to recruit a business administration apprentice.

The challenge was created to find vacancies for local young people who are looking to start their career or change jobs this summer.

The council will be hosting an Apprenticeship recruitment event on July 1 at the Hilton Hotel from 4.30pm to 7.30pm with local employers who are offering vacancies as part of the campaign.

The York Apprenticeship Challenge is running until 9 June and hopes to raise awareness of both the business and personal benefits of apprenticeships.

Training providers involved in the campaign are Askham Bryan College, Babcock Training, ETS (Electronic Technology Services), JTL Training, YH Training Services, York College, York Learning and City of York Council (York Apprenticeship Hub).

Local businesses wanting to hire an apprentice or find out more can email york.apprenticeships@york.gov.uk or telephone Jo Burgess at the council's York Apprenticeship Hub on (01904) 552200.