A DISCOUNT retailer is creating North-East jobs in an apprenticeship scheme.

Aldi is working with Gateshead College to recruit 24 workers for 16 regional stores.

The college will help bosses with applications, which open this month, and identify suitable candidates.

The apprenticeships will be based across the North-East, including two places in Peterlee, and two in Seaham, both in east Durham, and two roles in Bishop Auckland.

Aldi’s store in Spennymoor, County Durham, will take one apprentice, as will stores in Durham City, Chester-le-Street, and Washington, Wearside.

The young workers will be trained in retail management over three years, with all apprentices receiving a retail apprenticeship level three qualification.

Tom Aust, Gateshead College’s head of health and service industries, said: “It’s great to see one of the UK’s biggest retailers sharing our commitment to investing in apprenticeships.

“We are proud to partner Aldi on this scheme, which will open up several opportunities for jobseekers in the region.”

Aldi launched a national apprentice scheme in February 2012, which has created more than 500 jobs.

James Hutcheson, Aldi Academy’s managing director, added: “Our apprentices are given real responsibility from day one, with the opportunity to learn about the business from a grassroots level.

“We expect them to progress through to managerial level.”