Fourteen academies aimed at producing work-ready youngsters and addressing skills shortages in key industries in Derby have been launched.

Nearly 200 students across the College have so far joined the Employer Academies which cover industries including construction, sport, catering and hospitality, health and social care, business, ICT and engineering.  Students enrolling in September 2016 will be invited to apply for the next stage of the Academies.

The employers involved are Atlas Groundworks Academy, Derbyshire County Cricket Club, Derby Telegraph, Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, epm:technology, Hodgkinson Builders, Huub Design, iBox Security, The Finesse Collection, risual Ltd, MBS Building Services and First Response Finance.

The Employer Academies were designed to build bridges for young people to make a smooth transition from education to employment.

Students benefit from regular work experience at the businesses, take part in master classes and special projects and, in some cases, gain paid part time work alongside their studies at the College.

All Academy members will be offered an interview at the end of their course for a job or apprenticeship at the companies.

For more information, please contact Derby College, Tel: 0800 028 0289 www.derby-college.ac.uk.