400 target for training.

A CAMPAIGN launched today is aiming to help 400 young people secure apprenticeships with businesses across the North-east.

As part of its 5-a-day pledge, the North East Chamber of Commerce is working with firms to get five apprenticeships up and running every day between now and Christmas.

The initiative is aimed at helping businesses find a way of recruiting fresh talent as well as fostering a loyal workforce. At the same time, it said hundreds of young people would benefit from gaining fulfilling careers and industry-recognised qualifications while being paid. Young apprentices currently earn around pounds 100 a week.

Patricia Wilkinson, director of training and skills development at NECC, said: "Apprentices offer a fantastic way to bring new skills to a business."

Backed by Sir Alan Sugar, star of television's The Apprentice, the Government wants to see the number of young apprentices training in the North-east doubled to 10,000 by 2013.

The NECC is already responsible for around 1,500 apprentices being placed with membership organisations and is looking to place 400 more via the 5-a-day campaign and its new learner website at necc.co.uk/learners.

Philip Bolton is one Teessider learning a new craft as part of his apprenticeship at Creative Glass and Mirrors in Portrack Lane, Stockton. The 26-year-old is studying for an NVQ Level 2 as apprentice glass craftsperson at the firm, which employs 11 people in the design and production of architectural and decorative glass and has had four apprentices in the past.

"I saw it as a great way to progress my career," said Philip.

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CLEAR SUCCESS: Philip Bolton at Creative Glass and Mirrors