Almost nine out of ten businesses have a relationship with schools, colleges and universities.

A poll by the Institute of Directors (IoD) revealed 55 per cent of its members offered work experience while 49 per cent sponsored school activities and events or made other donations.

The minority of members who had no such links (13 per cent) said they were either too busy, did not have the resources, had more important priorities or felt the "investment" was not worth making.

Jo Crockett, public relations and communications manager for American Express, Brighton's biggest private-sector employer, urged businesses to get involved with the community.

She said: "Companies want to employ properly educated people. They should give young people a platform to contribute to the health of the economy and the wealth of the community.

"By doing this we can ensure Brighton and Hove continues to be a vibrant place."

Amex has a number of relationships with nurseries, schools, colleges and universities.

Last year, it sent staff to schools to help students learn about interview techniques and how to write a CV.

This year students will visit its offices in Edward Street to have a mock interview run by the company's HR department.

Jo said: "We're trying to encourage the workforce of tomorrow to understand what skills and abilities employers are looking for.

"It's also important to have a strategic approach because everyone comes knocking at your door asking for help."

It has worked in the Brighton and Hove Education Action Zone and with organisations such as the Sussex Education Business Alliance and Young Enterprise.

It has donated books, computers and other equipment to a number of schools and has provided burseries for students at Brighton University.

The IoD survey showed 60 per cent of members had a link with secondary schools, 39 per cent with further education colleges, 24 per cent with primary schools and 52 per cent with universities.

One director said it was "remarkably short sighted" not to get involved as businesses "can't complain about standards if we are not prepared to get involved".

Richard Wilson, business policy executive at the IoD, said: "Involvement reflects employers recognise they have a responsibility to the wider community.

"Some realise they need to participate in the education system in order to ensure young people have the skills necessary for the world of work.

"However, the onus remains on the Government to make sure school leavers are equipped with basic skills."