A new employment scheme, which is aimed at young people across England and Wales between the ages of 14-19 years old, has been launched by the government.

Inspired by the London 2012 Olympics, Opportunity is aimed at those who find other projects hard to engage with, such as young carers or individuals with crime or behavioural issues. A total of 500 people will be given the chance to embark on the initiative, which will provide successful graduates with 2012 'rewards', such as watching Olympic athletes train, or shadowing international fitness coaches and team physios.

Participants are set to come from existing schemes, including the Home Office's Positive Futures programme and the Youth Community Action initiative, which is led by the Department for Children, Schools and Families. Olympics minister Tessa Jowell said: "The new scheme will offer 500 young people unique opportunities inspired by 2012. They will receive intensive help, learning new skills and getting new experiences that will change their lives for the better.

"Those that successfully complete the course will earn unique and exciting Olympic rewards that will further their development." The Prince's Trust will operate the Opportunity initiative, due to run between June 2010 and September 2012.