YOUNG people are been given the opportunity to get mentally and physically prepared for the world of work as a training firm attempts to tackle youth unemployment.

Nordic Pioneer is running week-long boot camps aimed at boosting the employability of 16 to 18-year-olds in the Tees Valley.

Attendees will have the opportunity to take advantage of a CV clinic and develop skills in communications, teamwork and health and safety.

They will also be offered the chance to apply for any vacancies within the company's Urban Blitz programme, which involves community litter-picking and graffiti removal.

There will also be an element of physical fitness training which is designed to help improve motivation and self-confidence among young job-seekers.

Young people who pass all three modules and achieve 100 per cent attendance on the course will receive £50 and three certificates in employability, personal social development and neighbourhood improvement.

Di Shakespeare, the firm's managing director, said: "We are passionate about helping young people into work and hope to give them some vital tools to help them on their journey towards a career.

"We are a growing company ourselves so there may also be opportunities to fill vacancies within our own organisation, should suitable candidates emerge from the course.

"Since this is a big year for sport, we feel the fitness part of the course will not only make it more appealing and fun, but teach people about the importance of looking after their own wellbeing and the role that fitness plays in improving their job prospects."

For more information on the courses, call 01325-464880 or visit nordicpioneer.co.uk.