THE Redcar and Cleveland Care Academy is offering free training for anyone aged 18 or over and passionate about working in adult social care.

Students who complete the six-week course will gain an accredited qualification and are guaranteed a job interview with a local care company.

Natalie Payne, 30, from Redcar graduated and secured employment in April last year with Skelton based care provider Meadowvale Homecare.

She said: “I used to care for my dad and was always interested in working in the care sector. I received a lot of support from the tutors on the six-week course and learnt all about first aid and food hygiene as well preparing a CV and interview techniques.

"This is my first job so it was a big step for me but I would recommend the course and the guarantee of an interview to anyone thinking of working in care.”

Care Academy information sessions are being held as follows:

• Redcar & Cleveland College, Redcar from 10.00am to 11.00am on Monday, January 14.

• East Cleveland Training & Employment Hub, Skinningrove from 10.00am to 11.00am on Tuesday, January 15.

• Grangetown Training & Employment Hub, Grangetown from 10.00am to 11.00am on Tuesday, February 19.

Following the information sessions free six-week courses start at:

• Redcar & Cleveland College on Monday, January 21.

• East Cleveland Training & Employment Hub on Monday, January 28.

• Grangetown Training & Employment Hub on Monday, March 4.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council Cabinet Member for Adults, Cllr David Walsh said: “As a severely disabled person, I receive daily support from care workers myself so I know it’s challenging but very rewarding work.

This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to start a career in care. The courses are free and there is a guaranteed interview at the end. Not many courses offer that.”

To find out more and to book your place on one of the information sessions contact The Academy Team on 01642-865561, email employability@stockton.ac.uk or visit www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/CareAcademy