National Apprenticeship Week begins today, with employers urged to back traineeships to "unlock the potential of young people".

The National Apprenticeship Service said: "Employers often comment on a lack of work-readiness amongst young people and traineeships are designed to help prepare those aged 16-23 for the world of work via training and work placements. Traineeships give young people the right qualifications, work experience and career confidence they need and offer a stepping stone to future success either via an apprenticeship or sustainable employment.

"Employers can get ahead of the competition by bringing enthusiastic young people with their fresh ideas into their business before they get on to the job ladder - traineeships will allow businesses to shape the skills and experience of young people from their local community, helping their business to develop a loyal and talented workforce."

In the six months since launching, the National Apprenticeship Service has seen hundreds of employers including Virgin Media and Siemens come on board with traineeships.