GIVE us the chance to realise our potential.

That was the message from more than 20 would-be apprentices desperate for the opportunity that could kick-start their careers.

The youngsters aged 16-18, who are all studying pre-training courses through City Horizons at Southampton’s City College, are using Apprenticeship Week to urge more Hampshire businesses to consider taking on apprentices.

Chanting and waving placards, they spread their message outside the Bargate in Southampton.

“There’s not many businesses out there giving us the chance to show we’re willing to work, and we are willing to do it,” said Chelsi Davidson, 18, from Weston, who is on the Education to Employment course and looking for a job or apprenticeship in childcare.

“An apprenticeship would train us up and by the end of it we would be qualified, but we just need the chance to be qualified. We’re ready to work – we just need someone, any business, to give us a chance.”

Dave Murley, director of employer engagement at City College, said that the recession has meant many firms not recruiting, but as the upturn kicks in there are benefits from taking on apprentices.

“We feel young people, via this programme, can offer employers a good future for the years to come,” he said.

“Within a year or two, an employer can have a 16- or 17-year-old and transform them into the way their company works and they are fully qualified. Then the future is rosy for the employer and that young person.”