A CAR parts maker has launched a new scheme to help youngsters kickstart their careers.

ElringKlinger (GB) has unveiled the Routeway to an Apprenticeship student sponsorship programme alongside Middlesbrough College.

Bosses say the move will build on an already successful apprenticeship scheme at the Redcar-based firm and it comes after the business last year revealed a £5m, six-year supply deal to produce catalyst and exhaust heat shields for new Ford engines.

According to the new project, nine individuals have been given the opportunity to have one year of funded studies at the college, furthering their qualifications with a level three subsidiary diploma in mechanical engineering.

After this, they will have a chance of being selected to become an apprentice at the company.

Joshua O’Connor and Ethan Young, both 17, from Rye Hills Academy, in Redcar, are among the first intake, having previously completed successful work experience placements with the business.

Ian Malcolm, ElringKlinger (GB) managing director, said: “We see bridging the skills gap in the region’s engineering and manufacturing sector as paramount.

“The success of our long-standing apprenticeship programme has highlighted that offering hands-on training to young ambitious individuals is an excellent way to do this.

“Therefore, we are pleased to offer this opportunity to more young people in 2018.

“It enables us to give more students the opportunity to enhance their work experience and qualifications.”

Mr Malcolm added the new sponsorship programme will support an increased commitment to the workforce of tomorrow, with the company preparing to recruit more university students to its Year in Industry programme and strengthen its relationship with secondary schools through work experience placements.

The firm’s Ford agreement builds on a previously-announced £19.5m contract to supply the manufacturer with complex gaskets and a £12m-a-year arrangement to make heat shield and gasket components for Jaguar Land Rover.