As part of our Foundation for Jobs campaign this column is dedicated to a young person so they can issue a "come-and-get-me" call to firms.

Name: Lewis Stephens Age: 17 From: Eaglescliffe, near Stockton.

Studying at: South West Durham Training in Newton Aycliffe.

Looking for: An apprenticeship.

Lewis was at Eaglescliffe Comprehensive - where he picked up eight A-to-C grade GCSEs - and then completed a sports BTEC at Houghall College in Durham City. Lewis plays a lot of rugby and trained with Darlington RFC during his course and ended up with a sub-diploma in Sports Performance.

But after completing his sports BTEC Lewis decided to wanted a complete in direction.

"There were not many options with the sports course, it was either becoming a PE teacher or a physiotherapist and I fancied something more practical."

So Lewis enrolled on a welding and fabrications course at SWDT, which he is really enjoying.

"I am here for six months until March and I should come out with a level two PEA qualification."

Lewis is hoping someone will give him the chance to start his career in welding and fabrication.

"I am a team player and because I have played a lot of rugby I am confident around other people."

*Anyone able to help Liam is asked to call Barry Nelson on 01325-505075 or email barry.nelson@nne.co.uk