YOUNGSTERS have been given the chance to get their first foot on the jobs ladder - even before leaving school.
Five students from Northallerton College have joined a pilot scheme working towards a young apprentice business qualification with the county council.
The youngsters, all aged 14, will spend one day a week for two years working for the authority on administrative tasks, continuing at college as normal for the remainder of the week.
Council chief executive Jeremy Walker said: "As one of the largest employers in the area, we are more than happy to give these students an opportunity to gain experience in the world of work.
"One of the hardest parts of finding a job is having the right experience for it. These students will have a foot in the door for progressing their careers."
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