CHILDREN have been given lessons in the world of work by a housing organisation.

Some of the youngsters enjoyed their week-long work experience with Housing Hartlepool so much that they are considering applying for a job with the organisation when they leave school.

Since taking over the running of the town's council housing stock last year, Housing Hartlepool has been offering pupils work experience as part of a commitment to provide training and employment opportunities for local people.

The latest group, from High Tunstall School, spent a week finding out how the company operates.

They also found out about the range of jobs that are available.

Chief executive Cath Purdy said: "We are a local company that is committed to offering opportunities to local youngsters. This initiative is proving extremely successful and many of the students who have paid us a visit have expressed an interest in applying for vacancies when they leave school."

Housing Hartlepool has 25 young apprentices learning a variety of trades.