The Argus has teamed up with City College Brighton and Hove on an ambitious new plan to create 50 new apprenticeships – in just five days.

To mark the start of the seventh annual National Apprenticeship Week we are seeking pledges from employers to create opportunities for youngsters.

Last year The Argus teamed up with City College in a bid to get ‘25 in 5’ employers signed up.

This time round the target has been doubled to ‘50 in 5’ and all this week we will report on the efforts being made at the college to reach the target.

Lynn Thackway, principal of City College, said: “The support we got from The Argus last year created such a positive reaction among the local business community and so many young people reaped the rewards of the opportunities that were created as a result.

“Also, for the businesses themselves, research has shown that 76% of employers say apprenticeships provide higher overall productivity and 80% feel they reduce staff turnover so it’s a definite win-win.

“I realise it’s a really tough challenge for our City Apprenticeships team to get such a high number of pledges within five days but with the help of The Argus and its readers, I really think we can hit the target.”

Michael Beard, editor of The Argus, added: “We’re delighted to be working with City College again on such a worthwhile campaign.

“Creating 50 new apprenticeships within five days is a formidable target but I’m really hopeful that we’ll reach it.

“For instance, estate agency isn’t traditionally associated with apprenticeships but, with recent growth in that sector, I can see a lot of scope for business administration or customer service apprenticeship opportunities to be created.”

If you are interested in taking on an apprentice call 01273 667756 Option 1 or email cityapprenticeships@ccb.ac.uk.

Pick up The Argus every day this week to find out the latest on the campaign.