YOUNG people will be among the first to take advantage of a trial reward scheme, launched in the region today.
Government minister Malcolm Wicks will announce details of the Connexions Card, which provides discount incentives for youngsters aged 16 to 19.
It is designed to help them continue in education with a points system built up through participation in school, college or with a provider of training.
Incentives to persuade holders to continue studies include rewards and cut-price books, travel and leisure opportunities
The Durham and Northumberland Connexions Card trial is one of four pilot projects in England, with the scheme set to go national next September.
Mr Wicks, the Minister for Lifelong Learning, will launch the scheme at Durham Sixth Form Centre, in Providence Row, Durham City, handing out the cards to eight students
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