Sussex school-leavers of 16 years and over are being urged to consider the earn-while-you-learn way into a job through a modern apprenticeship.

These give young people the chance to gain skills and experience by working in a paid job while studying for a nationally-recognised qualification.

The Learning and Skills Council has launched a television advertising campaign this month to encourage young people to sign up for apprenticeships in hundreds of subjects, from information technology, agriculture, engineering and childcare to hospitality, sports and recreation, plumbing and travel services.

They are designed to appeal to the people who decide to go into employment rather than stay in full-time education.

Sherry Ryan, workforce development manager at the Sussex Learning and Skills Council, said modern apprenticeships had significant benefits for both employers and employees.

She said: "Work-based learning provides the handson experience and job-related training crucial to career development.

"The employer has the services of a young person whose enthusiasm and commitment are demonstrated by his or her willingness to learn and achieve a qualification."

Amelia Washer, is a secondyear engineering modern apprentice with Thales Training and Simulation in Crawley.

She said: "I knew university wasn't for me and I wanted a career in engineering, so I chose the modern apprenticeship.

"I can get my qualifications while being paid a salary.

Support and encouragement from the company has helped me decide the field of engineering to go into."