Plan 500, the innovative Swindon scheme set up to create 500 work-related opportunities for local young people, celebrated passing the 400 mark today.
To mark the milestone, a special event was held at the town's STEAM Museum with guest speaker Nick Hewer, Alan Sugar’s right-hand man on The Apprentice, adding his backing.
Chair of Plan 500 Steve Blore also announced new funding of up to £1,000 per each new apprentice for small employers (those with fewer than 249 staff).
“Plan 500 and the National Apprenticeship Service are committed to helping more local businesses benefit from apprenticeship training,” he said.
“These grants are on a first-come, first-served basis and are aimed at companies who have not offered apprenticeship training before.
"They are available to companies who plan to recruit a new apprentice or who can offer apprenticeship training to an existing member of their company.
"It’s hoped that this will help pull in new companies to the scheme and create some of the remaining opportunities needed to reach the 500 target by October."
As well as offering apprenticeships, Plan 500 is looking for companies willing to mentor young people, as well as offering work experience, diplomas and other work-based qualifications.
For more information contact Lisa Smart at Forward Swindon on 01793 612276 or register your interest at: www.forwardswindon.co.uk/Plan500
