STUDENTS from Stanley are taking part in an initiative this week to boost their job prospects.

The science department at North Durham Academy is holding a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) event for pupils on Friday.

The event is titled I Didn’t Realise I Could Do That With STEM and aims to raise aspirations of pupils, inspiring them to realise their potential by introducing them to companies and career opportunities.

A number of major regional and national employers are attending, some of which have never attended a school event in the UK before.

A school spokesman said: “There is a great deal of STEM related industry in the North-East region and employers often struggle to find local people with the right skills to fill vacancies.

“The event will hopefully inspire young people and particularly girls to go onto further study and future careers within STEM related industries.

“This proves that employers believe in STEM and North Durham Academy, as well as all the great work that we’re doing in terms of providing pupils with great opportunities.”