BUDDING young engineers have tried hands-on work at a training centre as part of a national event to celebrate apprenticeships.

Employers met more than 200 students from seven schools from across County Durham at South West Durham Training (SWDT).

The pupils took part in engineering and construction activities which included building a 55-foot long cable and suspension bridge.

Bricklaying, robotic-engineering and problem solving exercises were held too as part of the scheme to mark National Apprenticeship Week.

The week-long event was co-ordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service.

Pupils from Bishop Barrington and King James I Academy, in Bishop Auckland, Greenfield School in Shildon, Ferryhill School, and Sedgefield School were there.

Youngsters from Whitworth Park School, in Spennymoor, and Woodham Academy, in Newton Aycliffe, took part too.

Several employers, including Stockton-on-Tees based car parts manufacturer Nifco, whose general manager (engineering) Andy Dunn is a former SWDT apprentice, were present.

Trevor Alley, chief executive of SWDT, said: “There is no better way to inspire young people than for them to meet our former trainees who have gone on to achieve great things in industry.

“We are very grateful to all our industry partners who have given their valuable time to meet local students this week and stress the importance of gaining skills and qualifications.”