A THORNBURY school is set to pioneer a nationwide initiative aimed at helping students make the right career choice.

The Castle School will be the first institution in the country to test-run the School Society, a recruitment programme led by and for A-level pupils through a link-up with local employers.

Launched by consultancy firm Bright Futures, it will help students make the best possible decision for their future whether it be through education, a training scheme or entering the workforce.

As part of the School Society, years 11 and 13 will organise and coordinate a series of networking events, business presentations and employer seminars enabling them to build partnerships with firms and learn how to market themselves as attractive job or university applicants.

Head teacher Melanie Warnes said the school was delighted to lead the innovative scheme.

"The Castle School is thrilled to be working with Bright Futures, pioneering the first School Society in the UK. This is an enviable opportunity for our students to help shape a groundbreaking programme.

"The students will be leading the School Society. It is their society and that's what makes it so special. For me as head teacher this is a unique opportunity for our students to develop a range of essential employability skills in a truly challenging and creative way."

The Society initiative, which is designed to help students develop key skills sought by employers in addition to academic achievement such as such as leadership and teamwork, was first rolled out across universities nationwide in the 1977.

But with the increasing number of unemployed teenagers of school-leaving age, the scheme was recently extended to A-level students.

School Society Director at Bright Futures Sonja Stockton added: "School Societies take a partnership approach to careers support, motivating and inspiring students to fulfil their potential.

"They give young people access to direct engagement with major employers, right the way through to helping prepare students to make the most of their time at university. All delivered in a safe environment for students to explore a range of career options."