The scheme is called Culture Squad 2012, and it is on the lookout for 19 to 24-year-olds who want to create a career in producing outdoor events.

The winners will get direct experience of producing a major outdoor festival during the London 2012 Festival, which is a six week celebration of the Olympic Games.

Each apprentice will be based with one of the arts organisations involved in the scheme - The Albany, Barbican, English National Ballet, Roundhouse and Watermans.

The five will receive an NVQ Level 2 in Live Events, and Johnson said that it was "a fantastic opportunity for young Londoners with raw, creative energy, drive and talent."

"London leads the world in the creative industries and to remain the best, we must train up the younger generation."

Arts Council England executive director Moira Sinclair added: "It is incredibly tough for young people to break into the creative and cultural industries.

"Getting experience is really important...Culture Squad 2012 offers a wonderful opportunity to work in some of the capital's best arts organisations."

Cultural Olympiad and London 2012 Festival director Ruth Mackenzie said that the scheme is "an outstanding opportunity for young people to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime event."

Submissions are being accepted until Monday November 28, with full application details available here.

The London Festival runs from July 21 to September 9 across London and its 33 Boroughs, and will include live performances, film, visual arts, comedy and other events.

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