An apprenticeship programme where businesses take on Bermudians full-time for work experience and training has been boosted by the Government.

There are now 95 apprentices with 20 firms under the earn-and-learn on-the-job training programme, run by the Department of Workforce Development.

An extra $25,000 was allocated to the scheme this financial year, which increased the budget to $420,728, with $50,000 earmarked for overseas training.

Extra businesses are to be added “in the coming months” and Jason Hayward, the labour minister, appealed to Bermudian workers and companies to sign up.

Mr Hayward said: “By connecting Bermudians with employers, thousands of unemployed across the island can begin earning a living and providing for their families.”

Workers build their skills and employers are guaranteed payroll tax exemptions.

Apprentices sign an employment contract for a fixed period with training supported by the Government.

Training is registered with the department and governed by the National Training Board Apprenticeship and Training Regulations 2009.

For more information or to register, contact the Department of Workforce Development at 297-7716, register on www.bermudajobboard.bm, or e-mail adrichardson@gov.bm.