TEENAGERS are working with a housing group towards fencing apprenticeships.

The 12 youngsters, from Stockton, and aged between 16 and 18, will spend a year with Thirteen Group.

Supported by training provider Know How North East, they will spend three days a week with Thirteen and a day at Prior Pursglove College, in Guisborough, east Cleveland.

The placement will help them work towards a level two diploma in work-based fencing.

However, bosses say they will also gain experience in other trades to broaden their knowledge and understanding of potential work opportunities.

Danielle Barnes, Know How North East joint chief executive, said: “This qualification will provide these young people with the skills and knowledge required to become qualified fence installers.

“It is great Thirteen has come on board, alongside Prior Pursglove College, to help to deliver the training and experience, which will truly benefit these young people.”

Simon Forster, Thirteen’s contracts manager, added: “We are not just about building and maintaining homes, we create opportunities for people to make a positive change in their lives and raise ambitions and aspirations.”