AN apprenticeship and training provider is encouraging school leavers to consider becoming an apprentice after it received it first - and positive - Ofsted inspection report.

System People in Carlisle has been celebrating its 'good' Ofsted report and is offering free career advice for young people who are seeking an apprenticeship this year.

System People offer apprenticeships within childcare, teaching assistants, business admin, and logistics.

Lyndsey Fitheridge, commercial director of System People, said: "It’s been significantly harder for young people this year, with lack of face-to-face school time and careers advice, it’s likely that many of those hoping to progress onto an apprenticeship or further education, haven’t - so we’re here to remind those people that you can still apply for apprenticeships.

"A lot of courses are rolling throughout the year, you just need to keep an eye on current vacancies."

The apprenticeship and training provider added that since the government's £500 million jobs support package - where Rishi Sunak extended the incentive payment for employers of £3,000 for every new apprentice of any age until January 2022 - they have seen a spike in local schools and nurseries seeking early year practitioner and early years educator apprenticeships across Cumbria.

There are vacancies across Carlisle city centre, Maryport, and Penrith.

For more information and to apply for roles, visit system-people.co.uk/for-candidates/jobs.

You can also visit System People on their Facebook page at facebook.com/systempeopleapprenticeships.