COLLEGE students will get experience of the world of work under a new deal announced this week.

Youngsters from East Durham College’s Apollo Studio Academy will spend time at the Caterpillar factory in Peterlee, get experience of a simulated work environment and take part in the company’s assessment centre exercises.

There will also be student challenge days held at the Caterpillar Learning Centre.

The pioneering partnership will last for at least three years.

Academy principal Sally Hudson said it would provide a fantastic learning experience.

“We are really proud to announce this partnership between ourselves and Caterpillar.

“Caterpillar has really bought into what we are doing here at Apollo and believe in the studio school model.

“This is a huge commitment from them and it’s fantastic to be the only school in the area to offer this connection with Caterpillar. Hopefully many of our students may go onto have great careers with the company.”

Greg Robson, Caterpillar’s Peterlee Learning manager, said: “Offering real work experiences and allowing students to gain knowledge in future career choices is all part of a valuable learning experience we are proud to offer local students.”