Training course options to double

The number of apprenticeship options available is set to almost double with the creation of 25 new training programmes in careers from catering to truck-driving.

The range of new apprenticeships announced yesterday will add to 27 existing schemes that are mainly in construction-based and craft trades.

On foot of recommendations by the Apprenticeship Council set up last year, detailed work is now beginning on developing the training schemes. They will range from two to four years in duration and some could be on offer for new trainees by the end of this year.