Businesses were urged to hire more apprentices to improve the job prospects of young people in Fenland at a seminar at the Neale-Wade Academy on Friday.

The seminar, chaired by North East Cambs MP Steve Barclay, was supported by businesses 3B Design and Print, Smurfit Kappa, ROI Distribution and Hygiene Quality Forklifts.

Lorna Unwin OBE, professor from the UCL Institute of Education, described apprenticeships as one route to develop skills and knowledge for work.

Samantha Triggs from 3B Design and Print, who organised the seminar alongside Neale-Wade assistant principal Sam Mandley, offered advice about taking on apprentices.

The seminar enabled Year 13 students who have not chosen university as their next step to discuss their careers with Fenland businesses.

Principal Jason Wing said: “I believe that this is the first step in providing alternative opportunities for students to achieve high quality qualifications that would match a university education.”