SCHOOLS on Teesside are leading the way when it comes to offering top careers programmes.

Four of the county's schools have been awarded National Quality Standards for Learning and Work, which recognise excellence in the careers education and guidance fields.

The four; Catcote School, Hartlepool, Conyers School, Yarm, Grangefield School, Stockton and The Norton School in Norton, were presented with their awards yesterday at a Celebrating Achievement event at the Cellnet Stadium.

The scheme was launched by Teesside Careers Service, Future Steps, in January 2001 and to date more than half of the schools in Teesside have become involved.

The standards will help schools to deliver the best possible systems to support career planning.