LastNovember, the Mayor launched a campaign to create 20,000 more apprentices in London by August 2011.
Working with the National Apprenticeship Service, theCampaign has now exceeded the 20,000 target by almost 50%. By April 2011, therewere 28,120 new Apprenticeships starts in London.
The LondonApprenticeship Campaign's success means the capital is now the fastest growingregion for Apprenticeships, growing from 5 per cent to more than 8.5 per cent.
Top firmssuch as HSBC, Accenture, Microsoft, Norton Rose and Channel 4 have backed thecampaign, with more big companies joining daily, including BSkyB, Visa Europe,Reed Group, Capgemini, Veolia and the National Theatre.
Apprenticeshipsare relevant to London'sdynamic economy and diverse businesses, helping firms boost productivity andkeep talented employees. Apprentices can earn while they learn, develop newskills and make progress in their chosen careers.