EMPLOYERS across Suffolk have been congratulated for a “fantastic” response to a campaign to boost the number of apprenticeship opportunities in the county.

The Challenge Suffolk 100 in 100 initiative was launched in January with the aim of generating 100 new openings for apprentices within 100 days.

And the latest batch of new opportunities this week has taken the total number of places to far to 102, with more than a week to spare before the target date of April 24.

The campaign is being run by the National Apprenticeship Service, in partnership with supporters including the East Anglian Daily Times and its sister title the Evening Star, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Directors, Suffolk County Council and Connexions.

More than 40 organisations across the private and public sectors have announced apprenticeships under the scheme.

Some of the larger providers have included Needham Market Football Club, with a total of 20 places under a new apprenticeship programme, Suffolk New College, with 10 roles in hospitality and catering, Ipswich Borough Council and Ipswich Hospital, each providing five opportunities, Bolton Aerospace, four, and Suffolk County Council, Ipswich Buses and St Edmundsbury Borough Council, three each.

Teresa Logan, employer services director at the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “The response we have received to the 100 in 100 campaign from local employers has been fantastic.

“I would like to thank everyone for all their help and support during the campaign –“ it just goes to show what can be achieved when we all work together.

“My own personal commitment though is to keep the pressure up with employers until the 100th day, on April 24, so that we over achieve on the target.”

n For details of the apprenticeship system, including opportunities currently available, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk .