Sussex firms are being urged to take on young people under the modern apprenticeship scheme.

The success of a recent drive to promote the scheme resulted in inquiries from 700 young people who are either ready to start training with a Sussex employer or hope to do so when they leave full-time education next year.

Sherry Ryan, workforce development manager at Sussex Learning and Skills Council (SLSC), said: "The response to the campaign shows many young people now see vocational training as a real alternative to continuing in full-time education.

"If we're to help these enthusiastic youngsters fulfil their potential, we need more employers to offer modern apprenticeship places in a wide range of occupations.

"There are benefits for employers, too, when they take on modern apprentices.

It's an ideal way for a company to gain new skills and to train young people as they want them to be trained."

There are already more than 5,000 modern apprentices in Sussex.

Under the scheme, an employer gives the young person a job and provides the workplace training.

The employer is supported by the SLSC which funds the training and the services of an approved training provider.

Help with recruitment is available from training providers, colleges and careers centres.

For more information, call SLSC on 01273 783500.