BRIDGWATER College is encouraging businesses in the town to take on new social media and digital marketing apprentices to help businesses grow their online presence.

IT training advisor Carla Dixon said: “Social media and digital marketing apprenticeships are an exciting new opportunity for learners to get involved in real-life digital media projects.

“Employers can address their IT and digital skills gaps by hiring young people as apprentices, who are often full of new and fresh ideas.

“Apprenticeships are a cheap staffing alternative and are an easy way to recruit.

“There is a possibility of an ‘AGE’ grant of £1,500 available for small and medium sized businesses, so there’s never been a better time to have an apprentice!”

Social media is one of the fastest growing advertising and marketing tools that businesses have at their disposal, with the use of digital media attracting and engaging with current and potential customers.

One former IT apprentice with Bridgwater College, Josh Murray, said: “My favourite part of the apprenticeship was that you can learn a skill in College and then use it in a real life scenario at work the next day.

“One of the best feelings from the course is looking back and seeing how much I have learnt since starting the training.”