A GROUP of students from the region have been given an insight into the exciting careers on offer in advanced engineering.

Pupils from Darlington College and Darlington's Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College and Carmell Sixth Form visited CTC Marine Projects headquarters before travelling to its Teesside Offshore Base (TOB) in Middlesbrough to see how the company has become a world-leader in subsea engineering.

Gareth Sloane, a student at Darlington College, said: "I had not thought about how pipelines get into the ground before I visited TOB. I am blown away by the scale of machinery that CTC operate and it has opened my eyes to the world of subsea engineering something I might consider for a future career."

Sophie Yates who attends Carmel Sixth Form, said: "I have seen today how different types of engineering tie together. I was not aware of subsea engineering before I visited CTC today. It was an enjoyable day and this is definitely something I will talk to my friends about and encourage them to consider a career in engineering."

The visit was part of the Encouraging Engineering scheme which showcases job opportunities for people with the right skills and qualifications. Darlington Council, working with Cummins Engines, CTC Marine, Mech-Tool Engineering and Henry Williams Ltd in partnership with local educational establishments, offers a support programme to Mechanical Engineering (MEng) degree university students. The scheme offers hands-on engineering experience and a financial bursary.

The project is funded by the British American Tobacco (BAT) Legacy and supports a four-year programme of study.

Applicants must attend a Darlington-based school or college to be eligible, and must be intending to study a Mechanical Engineering degree.

For details contact Stephen Appleby on 01325 388943 or e-mail business.support@darlington.gov.uk