We’ve launched our 100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days campaign across Oldham

We have launched a new campaign in partnership with Oldham Council, calling on employers across the borough to help create 100 apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days for young people aged 16-24. 

The initiative aims to connect organisations with local talent ahead of students leaving school and college this summer.

We are encouraging organisations of all sizes and sectors to take part, whether they are ready to recruit now or are considering future apprenticeship recruitment.

The campaign supports the Government’s wider Youth Guarantee programme, which aims to help more young people access employment, education and training, alongside financial support of up to £3,000 for eligible employers and training initiatives.

Oldham currently has a youth unemployment rate of 7.5%, the highest in Greater Manchester, according to council data. Around 4% of known 16-17-year-olds in the borough are also classed as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

The campaign aims to help create more local apprenticeship, employment and training opportunities for young people across the borough.

Each year, around 800 apprentices study with Oldham College across a wide range of sectors, supporting businesses across the borough to recruit and train their future workforce.

We believe there has never been a better time for organisations to invest in apprenticeships, with increased government support, financial incentives and funding available.

This includes fully funded apprenticeship training for eligible younger apprentices in small businesses, reduced National Insurance contributions for eligible apprentices under 25 and Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) incentives of up to £8,500 for eligible construction employers.

The initiative will also raise awareness of Foundation Apprenticeships, a flexible route designed to help organisations introduce young people into the workplace with additional support and lower commitment.

Our Apprenticeship Team will support employers throughout the process, including advertising vacancies, matching candidates, onboarding support and guidance around funding and Apprenticeship Service accounts.

Simon Jordan, Principal and Chief Executive of Oldham College, said:

“Oldham is home to a huge number of talented young people who are ready to start their careers and make a positive contribution to local businesses.

“This initiative is about creating opportunities that benefit both employers and young people. Apprenticeships help businesses develop future talent, bring fresh ideas into the workplace and build the skills they need for the future.

“There has never been a better time for organisations to consider taking on an apprentice. If employers across Oldham each create just one vacancy, together we can make a real difference to young people across the borough.”

James Kington, Director of Growth at Oldham Council, said:

“We want young people in Oldham to have access to good quality opportunities and careers within their own community.

“Apprenticeships give organisations the chance to develop future talent while helping young people take their first step into work.

“100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days is about bringing employers, education and local talent together to create real opportunities across Oldham and help build a stronger future workforce for the borough.”

Employers interested in taking part in the initiative or finding out more about apprenticeships and funding support can pledge their support by completing the form on our Take on an Apprentice webpage.