The NHS will create 100,000 apprenticeships – almost seven times the current number – across the country by 2020. The move will offer opportunities to thousands of young people who the ambition of a career in the health sector.

It follows the launch of the government consultation to make 2.3% of workers in large public sector bodies apprentices. The roles will be created in a range of areas within the NHS, including: nursing and healthcare assistants; IT, estates and facilities; domestic and housekeeping services; business administration and accounting.

Ministers expect to boost the NHS apprenticeships programme with an estimated 17,000 new roles in 2015 to 2016. The scheme will mean existing NHS staff can have the opportunity to try a new role or enhance their current role.

Health Minister Ben Gummer said:

“As one of the largest employers in the world, I am immensely proud that the NHS is leading the way in offering thousands of aspiring young people the opportunity to become an apprentice. We will work with trusts across the country to improve access to a career in the healthcare system for anyone who has the drive and values to pursue it.

“This apprenticeship plan, along with the £10 billion we have invested to back the NHS’s own plans for the future, will ensure staff have the opportunity to develop their careers in both existing and also new and exciting roles such as nursing associates. We can’t have a strong NHS without a strong economy and this government is committed to creating more jobs and opportunities for Britain.”