A bid to boost the number of apprenticeships available to young people and adults is nearing its target, but employers are still being urged to take part in the scheme.

So far, 80 jobs have been pledged as part of the Bradford Apprenticeship Challenge, which aims to secure 100 new apprenticeship places in 100 days.

Among the organisations taking part is Leeds-Bradford International Airport, which is offering apprenticeships in air traffic engineering and motor transport.

The airport is also taking part in the Leeds City Region’s 5-3-1 campaign to equip jobseekers with the necessary skills to secure employment.

More than 30 businesses are involved so far, each committing to undertake at least one of five actions: do more to invest in skills, improve links with education, offer a work placement to an unemployed person, offer an apprenticeship and mentor a budding entrepreneur.

John Parkin, Leeds-Bradford Airport’s chief executive, said: “We are committed to investing in the future of the Leeds City Region and developing the skills of its workforce.

“Cumulatively, as a region, if we manage to increase our employment levels by just one per cent and increase our productivity per head by the same amount, it will add over one billion to our economy each year going forward.”

Employers hoping to take part in the Bradford Apprenticeship Challenge have until Wednesday, May 16, to pledge their support.

Mohammed Mayat, employer account manager at the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “Businesses in Bradford have really shown their commitment to apprenticeships.

“We are confident that we will meet our target of 100 Apprentices in 100 days. However, it is important that we maintain the momentum now and after the campaign, the more businesses that can get involved the better it will be for Bradford and its economy.”

For more information about apprenticeships and what they can offer businesses, go to apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000 150600.