A GROUP of German students are spending two weeks in east Durham as part of an exchange programme.

The students from a school called Stattliche Fachoberschule und Berufsoberschule in Altotting, Bavaria, are taking part in an exchange programme with East Durham College.

All 19 students will participate in an eight-day work placement, in either Business Admin or Childcare, with a range of local employers in the private and public sector including; Peterlee Fire Company, Mecaplast Peterlee Ltd and Howletch Lane Primary School.

As part of the trip the students will also visit a number of North-East attractions and have a go at bell ringing at Durham Cathedral.

Ian Prescott, college principal and chief executive said: "I’m very proud that this exciting exchange programme has reached this 18-year milestone."

The lecturers with the German students are Hannes Holzinger and Martina Marterer, who have participated in the exchange throughout the 18 years it has taken place.

Sandra Ambrose and Stephen Metcalf will accompany 13 students, who will be funded by East Durham College, to Germany for the return exchange visit in March.