The Government has unveiled plans to deliver 200 new apprenticeships in hospitality and customer service in London as part of new £5m investment to improve training ahead of the 2012 Olympics.
The package, announced today by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), will see an expansion in vocational training across four sectors: sport, customer service (incorporating hospitality), audio-visual and construction.
The LSC is also investing £1m on the Pre-Volunteer Programme, a joint initiative with the London Development Agency, to encourage unemployed and socially excluded people in London to gain new skills.
The programme is providing unemployed people with skills in public safety, interpersonal skills, customer service and volunteering.
Skills minister David Lammy said: “London 2012 is a once in a lifetime opportunity for individuals, employers and all of us. Working with the Mayor, we are determined to assist employers in meeting their skills needs to build and deliver the Games and their legacy.
“We must get more people into skilled jobs in construction, customer services and hospitality, media and communications - and help the coaches and athletes too. This £5m package of measures will help reach out to Londoners and give them the skills they need to benefit from the Games.”
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By Daniel Thomas
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