The scheme has also attracted the attention of politicians who are keen to take the idea and roll it out across the city.

Ian Wright, the newly appointed parliamentary under-secretary of state for 14-19 year-old reform and Peter Housden, permanent secretary of the department for communities and local government are among those who have praised the scheme.

In a letter to Mr Kavanagh Mr Housden wrote “Wow, I really admired the council’s energy and ambition”.

John Healey MP wrote: “You’re really committed to helping Knowsley’s residents.”

Baroness Janet Royall, who served as Neil Kinnock’s special adviser in the 1980’s invited Mr Kavanagh and 20 of the apprentices to the House of Lords later this year.

Mr Kavanagh said: “It’s great that we have such support. The key has been to keep the scheme simple.

“When Wirral Council asked to see out paperwork I gave it them – it’s one piece of paper.

“It’s not about ticking boxes. it’s about developing a simple scheme which can be applied anywhere.”

He added: “I believe helping our young people is as important as tackling health and other sectors. If we can support people into work it will enable them to earn a decent wage, buy healthier food, keep active and will have a positive knock-on effect within our borough.

“I believe pound-for-pound this is the best way a council can use its resources to benefit the borough.”