NORTH-East youngsters are to benefit from Government plans for 19,000 new Higher Apprenticeships, which take participants up to degree equivalent after funding of £241,000 was awarded to Newcastle College.

The college is one of 19 partnerships comprising employers and training providers which will receive a total of £17m.

The college will develop a High Level Apprenticeship in energy engineering, creating new opportunities to progress into foundation, honours and masters degrees.

It includes 120 new apprenticeship opportunities in firms such as Bell Valves and Shepherd Offshore on Tyneside.