A programme has been set up to boost skills of trainees in the electronics sector.

The work-based Learning for Adults programme has been created by a partnership which includes The North of England Microelectronics Institute (Nemi), the Employment Service, the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) Tyne and Wear, and North Tyneside Borough Council.

In the nine months since it was established it has helped 70 per cent of those participating find jobs.

Filtronic in Darlington, Atmel, of North Tyneside, and Warburtons, Newcastle, have put their support behind the programme by offering four-week placement opportunities for trainees.

The 16-week programme allows trainees to learn various skills, from IT and clean room technology, to traditional and new technology engineering.

John Lockey, coordinator of the programme, is urging more companies to get involved in offering placements.

He said: "We need to work closely with local companies if we are to create a first class workforce which can operate in local, regional and global markets.

"it is only through their input that we can create training and education programmes that really meet the needs of the sector today and in the future."

A promotional event is planned at Atmel on November 12. For details, contact Stacey Falcus at Nemi on 0191-293 7020.