ELEVEN teenagers have taken their first step on the career ladder after completing a college course aimed at preparing them for life in the workplace.

The hard working students were equipped with vital skills needed to break into the employment market during the two-year-long Career Academy programme at Redbridge College.

The youngsters attended a graduation ceremony at the Institute of Education, in central London where they received certificates to mark their achievement.

A college spokesman said: "The programme aims to raise the aspirations of 16 to 19-year-olds and boost their employability skills by giving them real life experiences of the workplace.

"Over 600 young people, from schools and colleges across the UK, have graduated from the programme this year.

"Working with an impressive network of over 800 employers, the programme provides a once-in-a-lifetime workplace experiences for teenagers, many from diverse urban backgrounds and areas of social need who would not normally have access to such opportunities.

"Completing the Career Academy programme greatly improves the students’ chances of progressing on to higher education or straight into a job, at a time of real concern about the employment and education prospects for young people in the UK."

The students received their certificates from members of the Career Academies UK National Advisory Board.

Joshua Carr, aged 17, was one of the graduates. He said: "Career Academy is a fantastic programme. I think the great relationship that I built up with my mentor over the many meetings we engaged in, was so beneficial.

"Our trip to the London Transport museum stands out as the most memorable moment for me. I would definitely recommend the programme to others."

James McCreary, chief executive of Career Academies UK, said: "At a time when youth unemployment is at a record high, graduation day celebrates the achievements of Career Academy students who have recognised the need to work hard and be armed with the skills and vital experience needed to help them get ahead and stay ahead.

"We wish the Career Academy class of 2010 at Redbridge College all the best for the future."

Career Academies UK was set up in 2002 to help raise the job expectations of young people, by providing them with meaningful work experience.

The curriculum is equivalent to three A-Levels and includes one-to-one business mentoring and a six-week paid internship with supporting businesses.

For more information about Career Academy programmes at Redbridge College, call Tracy Lewzey on: 8548 7461 or email: tlewzey@redbridge-college.ac.uk