BUSINESSES are being urged to go back to school to help nurture young talent.

Amid concerns over educational standards and a lack of skills among school leavers, the North-East Chamber of Commerce is working with the County Durham Business and Learning Partnership to raise standards.

As part of the drive, it will launch the region's Business Back to School programme at Whitworth Hall Country Park, near Spennymoor, on Friday, March 1.

Aimed at giving businesses the opportunity to find out how they can become involved in the programme, the launch will be led by local MP Derek Foster.

Rachel Spence, head of policy at the chamber of commerce, said: "Members of the chamber recently voted education and skills shortages to be their number one concern, and the Business Back to School programme is a constructive way of trying to raise standards among school leavers.

"Most businesses probably only come into contact with young people once they have finished school or college, but there is a lot they can do beforehand to help prepare young people for the world of work."

Patrick Brennan, business liaison coordinator with the Business and Learning Partnership, said: "The aim of the programme is to develop closer links between schools and local businesses.

"Although some may not realise it, employers have a great deal to offer and often benefit from linking up with local schools."

One school already benefiting is Spennymoor Comprehensive.

Careers and work experience coordinator Sheila McEwan said: "We've been involved with a number of organisations such as the police, the Army, the careers service and local engineering firms.

"Hopefully, we can involve a few more in the future."

For more details on the launch, which will be followed by meetings at Seaham Hall Hotel, on March 6, Tanfield School, on March 15, and Durham County Cricket Club, on March 22, ring Emma Forster on 0191-386 1133