Sports and leisure trust North Country Leisure (NCL) is to launch a dedicated apprenticeship programme.

The initiative, called NCL Learning, has been created to produce qualified apprentices in the sport and leisure industry who are trained to a high standard and with excellent knowledge in leisure operations, activity leadership, fitness instructing, leisure management and sports development. The scheme is being funded by LSC North East.

NCL will initially recruit 16 apprentices for the two-year programme, who will work towards an NVQ 2 OR NVQ 3 in one of the five subject areas. The apprentices will be spread across various NCL-managed sites in Tynedale, Alnwick and Copeland. John Maude, chief executive of NCL said: "The human aspect of the leisure sector is easily overlooked. North Country Leisure is working to make people aware of leisure as a career choice, as well as improving the skills of those already within the industry.

"Career changers will also be welcomed as we are looking for aptitude rather than formal qualifications as our baseline." While the majority of the apprentices will be recruited from the 16-to 24-year-old age range, older career changers will be considered according to their individual merits. A one-month probationary period will allow NCL to determine whether an apprentice has the necessary general skills and commitment to complete the scheme.

Chris Roberts, regional director of LSC North East, added: "This exciting new Apprenticeship programme will be a real boost for both North Country Leisure and the individuals who take part. "It has never been more important than it is now for employers to equip themselves with a skilled workforce to enable them to compete and succeed and the Apprenticeship programme enables them to do just this.

"Apprenticeships provide employers with a highly motivated and skilled workforce. For individuals, the programme provides the opportunity to earn a wage and pursue a career as well as gaining new skills and qualifications. More and more people of all ages are choosing the apprenticeship route".