A TRAINING and recruitment organisation says it is offering a unique opportunity to help youngsters find work.

HTES Northern, in Hartlepool, says it is can guarantee apprenticeships with a job interview.

The firm is now seeking a new intake of 16 to 18-year-olds, with 80 youngsters already training throughout the region.

They include apprentices in building services, engineering and business management.

Bosses say before being offered an interview with a potential employer, trainees are given a pre-apprenticeship assessment, which can last up to eight weeks, to allow them to develop presentation and CV skills and guide them towards a suitable career.

Brian Goodlad, managing director, said: “An apprenticeship and a guaranteed interview is a great package, which we believe is unique, and it could be a great start to the new year for youngsters throughout Teesside.

“We don’t just offer training courses; we give our trainees the incentive of fixing them up with first class companies throughout the area.

“If they make the grade, they will almost certainly land an apprenticeship of one to three years.”

Mr Goodlad revealed training continues at HTES throughout an apprenticeship.

He also said the interview incentive was made possible through the business’ recruitment arm, which finds staff for various businesses, allowing it to develop relationships with North-East firms looking for apprentices.

Mr Goodlad added: “Companies are contacting us all the time.

“We are being told things are getting better for young people, but here is the direct evidence from what has long been regarded as an unemployment black spot.”