A student apprenticeship scheme has been launched in Stockton.

The Stockton Sixth Form College apprenticeship will give students a chance to spend two days a week in the workplace and three at college.

The pilot scheme is for first year ICT or business studies A-level students and is designed to improve students' job prospects.

Eight firms and Stockton Borough Council have opened their doors to the students.

Martin Youngman, the teacher who has organised the new apprenticeship, said: "This programme gives students the best of both worlds.

"It means that when they are ready to go into full-time employment they will have the experience that employers ask for on a regular basis."

Students taking part are: Samantha Beedle who is at Baines and Goldston Accountants; Christopher Bray, Stockton Youth Service; Matthew Cummins, CADCAM; Stacy Cutler, Stockton Borough Council, human resources; Daniel Heritage, The Image Group; Darren Mack, Yarm Computers; Michael McLean, AES Web Design; Daniel Ord, Teesside University and Liam Snowdon, CLC Stockton.