A GROUP of engineering apprentices are working on some of the world’s most famous aircraft.

The eight youngsters, who have all trained at Hartlepool College, have started their apprenticeships at Babcock, learning about servicing and maintaining planes for the RAF.

The students hope to complete an advanced apprenticeship in aeronautical engineering.

They have been offered two-year apprenticeships with Babcock after completing two years of advanced technical training at the college.

Bosses said two apprentices will be based at RAF Leeming, working with 100 Squadron’s Hawk aircraft, while at RAF Linton on Ouse, near York, a further two students will be working on Grob planes and four on the Tucano.

The college has a reputation for engineering training having worked alongside Darchem, in Stillington, near Darlington, which makes insulation blankets for Boeing 737 engines, and Newton Aycliffe-based car parts maker Gestamp Tallent.

Nick Earl, Babcock operations director, said: “It is essential we develop our own young aircraft engineers and Hartlepool College has brought us some excellent candidates through.

“These apprentices will get fantastic on-the-job training and be able to immerse themselves in the culture of our business and that of the RAF.”

Darren Hankey, Hartlepool College principal, added; “The relationship between Babcock and the college has been built on mutual respect, trust and admiration.

“We have some exceptional engineering students with strong work ethics, tenacity and the ability to achieve great things.”