STUDENTS are invited to take part in a mentoring and internship scheme in a bid to shape the next generation of business leaders.

Wensleydale School and Sixth Form is working with the Lower Wensleydale Business Network to encourage post-16 students to pursue local business opportunities.

The scheme, which matches its members and business owners with students, aims to improve career prospects for young people.

It is also hoped the scheme will give businesses access to the local talent pool for future recruitment.

David Poole, of the Lower Wensleydale Business Network management team, said: “Too often we see young people leave our community because of a perceived lack of opportunity.

“This scheme will give them the skills and experience that employers are desperately looking for when they are recruiting.”

This initiative follows an announcement from the school and business group last year about a new study option open to students starting this September.

Through the Wensleydale School and Sixth Form Business and Innovation Centre, students will have access to a tailored vocational and academic study route coupled with this scheme.

A mentor will be asked to commit to their student for a two-year period, with regular meetings where they help the student understand the skills that employers are looking for while giving them a first-hand insight into their chosen career.

This will run alongside an internship providing practical experience of working in a business environment.

Charles Barnett, assistant headteacher, said: “Studying at the Business and Innovation Centre prepares our students for the 21st century.

“They can use their skills for many of the established routes for 18-year-olds – be it higher level apprenticeships, direct employment, university or using their business and innovation skills to start their own businesses.”

In recent years, fewer young families have moved to the area, and a hike in young people pursuing opportunities elsewhere has increased.

A report also revealed the skills gap between the north and the rest of the country has widened.

Business owners and leaders who want to be a mentor should email info@lwbusinessnetwork.co.uk or call 07779 378641.