A TRAINING organisation is working with a university on a project officials say is a first of its kind.

Gradvert is partnering Newcastle University Students’ Union on a course aimed at preparing learners for work.

Bosses say the programme, due to start early next year, will improve students’ leadership and management skills.

Gradvert, headquartered in Newcastle, works with corporate and educational bodies to deliver graduate schemes and training courses.

Michaela Reaney, Gradvert’s managing director, said her company was now embarking on its most ambitious project with the university after a number of collaborations.

Ms Reaney, who hails from Yarm, near Stockton, said: “We believe this is the first course of its type.

“The students we are working with have demonstrated a natural interest in leadership, having taken on an active role in their student community.

“However, this will build on their skills and create an opportunity for them to further their development and CV.

“We are very confident it will produce students (who will) develop into the leaders of tomorrow.”

Ms Reaney added the programme is due to begin in February, with students completing the course in May.

To pass, learners will attend workshops and coaching sessions and will also carry out a practical project, which will be assessed by Newcastle University and Gradvert representatives.

Katie Blundell, volunteer manager at Newcastle University Students’ Union, added: “We have some supremely talented students, who are driven to succeed.

“We would like to build on this by delivering a course that recognises and rewards their efforts and gives them a chance to better lead their respective society or student group.”

Earlier this year, Gradvert hosted an event where business leaders from organisations such as Teesside car parts maker Nifco UK, Newcastle’s Ryder Architecture and the North East England Chamber of Commerce discussed ways of steadying worries over a skills shortage.

Ms Reaney added: “More needs to be done to ensure students leave ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the world of work.

“With programmes like Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, we are bridging the gaps between work and education.

“However, at Gradvert, we challenge universities and employers to do more.

“We create training and development programmes to improve the skills base of graduates and work with universities to make sure they are producing the most work-ready people out there.”