Under the Young Apprenticeship Programme teenagers who show a genuine interest to learn a trade will work towards a BTEC Level 2 in Construction qualification.

But to qualify they must spend 50 days in a work environment to gain hands-on experience.

"Practical hands-on training and experience alongside school work is the best route for some young people and can be very motivational," said Jenny Gedlek, apprenticeship and access to training manager.

She said the college was relying on bosses looking to the future to come forward and offer work places to support the apprentice trainees and the scheme, which has been successfully piloted already in other parts of the country.

"This is new to Halifax and we envisage that the majority of our trainees will progress to an apprenticeship or advanced apprenticeship on completion of their BTEC Level 2."

"We're calling on employers in the construction industry to consider whether they can help give young people a step up the ladder by supporting this initiative," she said.