A majority of people taking part in Suffolk Coastal and Waveney councils’ apprenticeship scheme have secured employment with the two authorities or moved into full-time employment in the public sector after completing their training.

Andy Smith, Suffolk Coastal’s cabinet member for economic development, said: “We currently have eight apprentices working across both councils and the scheme continues to be working well.

“We’re celebrating the fact we have a high success rate in employing apprentices and importantly keeping them on once they have completed their apprenticeships.

“Not only are apprenticeships a good thing to provide young people with a route into the world of work, they are also helping to creating thriving businesses and encouraging the economy to grow.”

Bruce Provan, Waveney cabinet member for economic development, said: “Our apprenticeship scheme offers a stable route into work and provides the council with enthusiastic well-trained employees who we hope will go on to have long careers with us.”

Economic services and East Suffolk Partnership apprentice, Tom Andrews, said: “I’ve gained experience in lots of different areas and I feel my apprenticeship has helped me become more confident and improved my communication skills.

“I’ve enjoyed working in the team and I feel I’ve been well supported throughout my apprenticeship.”

Companies with fewer than 1,000 employees can apply for funding from the National Apprenticeship Service to help give a young person employment and training opportunities within their businesses with incentives available to help pay towards their wages.