A digital marketing firm, celebrated for its apprenticeship scheme, has congratulated The Argus’ campaign to find 50 training placements in a week.

Brighton firm Upstream has three fulltime apprentices and was praised for its outstanding contribution to supporting opportunities for youngsters.

The employer has given its support to The Argus and City College Brighton and Hove’s ‘50 in 5’ campaign for National Apprenticeships Week. So far 43 apprenticeships have been pledged.

Managing director Jose Mendez said youngsters brought enthusiasm to the workplace while gaining vital employment skills and training.

He said: “We have been taking on apprentices since 2011 and most of these have gone on to become permanent members of staff.

“A mentor is assigned to each apprentice to encourage and help them to expand their skills and knowledge.

“It’s great to be able to give young local people opportunities of employment, but more importantly, to see them grow, develop and learn during their time with us, and set them up with great skills and knowledge for the future.”

He added: “The Argus and City College campaign to secure 50 opportunities in five days is a very inspiring campaign that shows real investment in the future of our young workforce.

“Last year, Upstream won the Employee Contribution Award for outstanding contribution to supporting apprenticeships in partnership with City College’s apprenticeship team and we will continue to support the scheme in the future.”

The Argus:

The firm has taken on Charlie Eden, 16, Georgie Pilbeam, 19, and Jordan Sulc, 20.

Jordan, of Saltdean, started at the firm and produces content for the website.

He said: “Trying to get into the industry was really tricky with my previous job as a beach volleyball coach.

“Not going to university was a major stumbling block but when this opportunity came up I was very happy. I’ve learnt a lot already. You get quite a lot of responsibility and youbecome a part of the team.

Meanwhile the City Skills and Jobs shop on Queens Road is looking to fill 12 apprenticeship vacancies in business administration and IT.

For more information on apprenticeships, call 01273 667756 Option 1 or email cityapprenticeships@ccb.ac.uk.

Visit Upstream at www.upstream.co.uk