A number of electrical and engineering apprentices will be trained in Havering after the New City College in Ardleigh Green won the tender.

Up to 24 apprentices over the age of 18 will be recruited to the scheme for Gov Facility Services Ltd (GFSL) which provides maintenance services to prisons across the south of England.

Due to start next month, the group will remain with the company for three years, at the end of which they will receive either an NVQ Level 3 electrical engineering or mechanical maintenance engineering qualification. Lockdown may affect the start date.

Steve Lee, the college's deputy group director for apprenticeships, said: “We are delighted to form this partnership with GFSL. This is a fantastic employment opportunity for people to access given the current climate, and we look forward to working with GFSL and developing their future workforce."

To apply, visit ncclondon.ac.uk/apprenticeships