AN INNOVATIVE Thornbury school has taken its bold initiative to maximise pupils' chances of securing a job in an increasingly competitive and ruthless market to the next level.

Castle School introduced the Premium Partnership scheme in 2011 to link up with businesses and encourage entrepreneurs and traders to mentor students and give them the best possible start up the career ladder.

Through seminars and work placements, the collaboration has boosted hundreds of teenagers' employability skills and confidence to shine in job interviews.

Now, to broaden the range of opportunities available to its sixth formers, the secondary school has launched the Premium Partners loyalty card.

The discount card, which is available for £2 to members of the public, will offer various deals at all of the partnership's participating firms and shops, while all the funds raised from card sales will go towards the cost of running business forums, training and mentoring sessions.

Castle School business development manager, Tess Wilkinson, said: "We are thrilled to be introducing a loyalty scheme which will give members the opportunity to take advantage of a number of offers and discounts provided by the partners.

"By introducing this scheme, we hope to raise funds to reinvest into student projects designed to develop innovation and enterprise. It will provide a range of opportunities for students to gain essential employability skills for future success."

Deals include everything from discounted Sunday lunches or driving lessons to printing and technology services and picture framing.

Castle School head teacher Melanie Warnes told the Gazette: "The Premium Partners have invested a huge amount of time in the school, and we are pleased to be able to support them while raising funds to invest into educational projects for our students. This initiative is a winner for everybody."

To find out more about the initiative and the new card visit www.thecastleschool.org.uk/premium-partners Alternatively contact Tessa Wilkinson at tessa.wilkinson@thecastleschool.org.uk or on 01454 862124.