APPRENTICE Chris Cooke, 17, has landed a job at a school after impressing the staff with his talents.

Part of his training involved work placement at Laurence Jackson School, Guisborough, where staff were so impressed that they offered him the post of Information Technology (IT) technician.

Now nearing the end of his NVQ Level 2 IT course, he has thoroughly enjoyed his apprenticeship.

He is the first line of support for children and staff suffering problems with IT technology.

He said: “I feel I’ve got some great skills now which will stand me in good stead for life.

The apprenticeships are funded by the Learning and Skills Council North East.

Chris Roberts, regional director, said: “What we need now is for more employers to come forward and to take apprentices on.”

More information is available at apprentice ships.org.uk