by Jo Earle

Almost 9,000 young people have taken up apprenticeships in Kent over the last year.

According to Kent County Council numbers have increased by 75 per cent during the 2010/11 academic year compared to in 2009-10.

And with youth unemployment at a record high, the authority says there has never been a better time for young people to have the practical work experience that's provided with an apprenticeship.

* An apprenticeship gains skills relevant to the job market such as team working, communication and using new technology

* Apprentices are entitled to the national minimum wage of at least £2.60 per hour.

* Apprentices are eligible for annual holiday and sick leave entitlement dependant on the employer's terms of employment.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Education, Learning and Skills, Mike Whiting, said: "I'm pleased to see such a significant rise in the number of young people opting to become an apprentice.

"They say what goes around comes around and it's great apprenticeships are having their day again.

"Yes, employers want qualifications and we must never lose sight of that, but they are also calling for practical work experience as well - experience that is offered with an apprenticeship.

"This is a win-win for young people who want to get into the world of work and for employers who benefit from reduced turnover, improved productivity and potential staff and managers of the future."

Tom Cummings, 22, from Medway, started his apprenticeship in IT last November and said it's been a worthwhile experience.

He said: "It was hard for me to get into the industry before doing this apprenticeship, I could find bar work without too much trouble but I didn't want to do that.

"I had the opportunity to go to university but I thought I would probably end up with the same job I do now. The advantages are I don't have a huge debt.

He added: "Apprenticeships allow you to get a foot in the door of the working world and gain a qualification.

"I've recently seen jobs where experience counts more than qualifications, so this will give me the advantage."