A NEW training agency is being set up to provide support for companies that want to take on apprentices.

Stoke-on-Trent College is launching Real Apprenticeships Ltd, which will work with employers, find apprentices, provide training and conduct job interviews.

It will initially work with the construction industry, including contractors involved in Stoke-on-Trent's Building Schools For The Future programme.

College principal Sarah Robinson will officially launch the training agency at during an event today from 4pm at the college's Burslem campus.

The speakers at the launch will include representatives from Balfour Beatty and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service.