APPRENTICES are being sought by one of Oxfordshire’s largest employers, the car firm BMW.

The company is looking for more than 150 young people with a passion for the motor industry to take up apprenticeships across the country this year.

BMW employs 3,700 full-time staff at its MINI plant in Cowley, which has 32 spaces available for apprentices.

Technical apprentices will attend Plant Oxford’s newly-opened training school, featuring state-of-the-art classrooms, computer study areas and a fully-equipped workshop.

Business and IT apprentices will attend Abingdon and Witney College in conjunction with Oxford Brookes University.

MINI Plant Oxford and Swindon managing director Frank Bachmann said: “Investment in young people is a key part of our development strategy for the plants and it is vital that we attract the very best young talent to ensure the business has the right skills for the future. We are delighted to be able to offer young people the chance to join our modern apprenticeship scheme.”

The scheme has been commended by the Government. Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said: “It is great news that BMW is offering so many more exciting apprenticeships.”

Young people can apply for an apprenticeship through a Facebook page at facebook.com/BmwCareersUK

The closing date is March 1.