The apprentice agency has launched in Reading and Oxford.

A joint venture by the Learning and Skills Network (LSN) and The Workshop, the agency partners with colleges to help small businesses by offering them ‘work-ready’ apprentices.

Piloting the programme in Reading and Oxford, businesses will be offered a choice of apprentices, while the agency will then employ the apprentice directly on the business’s behalf, cutting down on paperwork and removing much of the employer’s risk.

Partner colleges will give training either through day release or, where appropriate, onsite courses.