A district council has been promoting its apprenticeship scheme as part of National Apprenticeship Week.

National Apprenticeship Week is under way and takes place until February 9.

To coincide with the event, Eden District Council has been reminding businesses of its Eden Apprenticeship Scheme.

The scheme can offer up to a £2000 grant towards the wage costs of an apprentice.

The offer has already been taken up by a variety of businesses across Eden, helping them offer opportunities to over 35 apprentices during the scheme’s lifetime.

These businesses have included Atkinson Building Contractors, in Penrith, which has recruited a number of apprentices through the scheme in recent years.

Commercial services portfolio holder and deputy leader of Eden District Council councillor Mary Robinson said the scheme had had a positive impact.

“We’re delighted to have seen some brilliant success stories as a result of our schemes for businesses in Eden," she said.

“The apprenticeship incentive has been used by employers new and established, to help take on apprentices and grow their organisations. It’s very rewarding to see the difference it can make to the prospects for our young people in the area – and the positive impact apprentices have on their businesses.”

The scheme is managed by Appleby Training and Heritage Centre, which offers a wide range of courses to students and the local community. For more information on the scheme contact dan.mcaulay@eden.gov.uk.