Full-time construction students at Bedford College are being helped to take up apprenticeships with a £500 bursary from the Connolly Foundation.
On signing up for an apprenticeship, the young people will receive the money to help towards tools or transport costs.
Head of Construction at Bedford College David Wilkins said: “This could potentially help 150 learners on a range of construction and courses here who find it difficult to take up an apprenticeship because they haven’t the family finances to fund tools or transport. It will appeal to employers as it will be one less barrier for the employee to overcome towards becoming a valuable team member.
“We are continually grateful to the Connolly Foundation for its support of Bedford College in creating a generation of young people with the construction skills of tomorrow.”
Mick Callanan, of the Connolly Foundation, said:
“We have been helping students at Bedford College who take up apprenticeships in the building industry for some years now, and are very happy to continue that support.”
Bedford College offers training from entry level at the age of 16 with progression on to degree-level learning for those who are seeking promotion or entry to roles such as Project Manager.