IMPROVED apprenticeships are being offered by some of the UK’s leading businesses.

The move was announced when David Cameron met with 500 young people, whom he described as the future of Britain’s economic prosperity.

More than 60 companies have already signed up to be ‘Trailblazers’ and are ready to go live with developing the new apprenticeship scheme.

The new apprenticeships could start as early as the end of 2014. They will last for a minimum of one year and it is hoped that by putting employers in the driving seat, the quality of apprenticeships will be increased.

The initiative is based on existing successful programmes run by The Prince’s Trust and includes intensive vocational training, mentoring and on-the-job experience.

A spokesman for The Prince’s Trust said: “Prince’s Trust programmes are proven to help unemployed young people into jobs. Now, this backing from some of Britain’s biggest businesses will support thousands more disadvantaged young people into work