A GROUP of eight apprentices are trailblazers for a new scheme to help them improve their job prospects.

The business administration programme is being run by South Gloucestershire Council through a link-up with Filton College.

Running over 30 weeks, the youngsters will spend one day a week at college and the remaining four days with the council.

At the end of the programme, they will have gained valuable work experience, developed contacts within the authority and achieved an NVQ Level 2 in business and administration.

They have already spent a week at college preparing to start their apprenticeships and have now arrived at the council's offices around the district, where they will be based in departments such as human resources, community services, planning and transport, customer and revenue services and community care and housing.

Rae Cains, one of the eight apprentices, said: "I'm really looking forward to the next 30 weeks. I hope to get good work experience working in the council which will prepare me for a job in business administration.

"I'll be working in Yate with community services and I can't wait to get started."

Allan Higgs, executive councillor for corporate affairs, said: "The apprenticeship programme is a great way for people to gain work experience while studying towards a valuable professional qualification.

"The programme is further evidence of the council's determination to provide the best employment opportunities for our school leavers."