A STUDENT has won a car as part of an initiative to encourage youngsters to remain in learning after the age of 16.

A-level student Andrew Wing won a Smart Car and a package of BSM driving lessons as part of the Connexions Card initiative.

Andrew, a pupil from Ferryhill School, in County Durham, has become the first Connexions Card website winner since it was launched nationally.

After exchanging his attendance record for points, Andrew had the chance to redeem them for rewards via his own personalised area on the website, www.connexionscard.com.

On this occasion, Andrew entered a prize draw to win a Smart Car and 35 hours of driving lessons from the BSM company.

Connexions Card aims to encourage young people to remain in post-16 education and training by offering rewards to support their participation in learning.

Following a recent national launch, the card is now available to all 16 to19-year-olds throughout England.