A group of Sixth Form students in Bushey began a journey towards full-time employment at a business breakfast this morning.

Representatives from major companies in and around Watford, who will act as the students’ mentors during the coming months, attended the meeting at Queens’ School, in Aldenham Road.

The project, Career Academies, forges links between businesses and students who are selected for the scheme and all ten of the chosen participants will take part in full-time work placements during the summer.

Watford MP Richard Harrington, who himself set up a jobs and apprenticeships fair in June, was invited to hear past students speak about their experiences.

The national scheme was introduced to Queens’ by teacher Keith Reynolds, who moved into education two years ago after more than 20 years in sales.

He said: “For me, the biggest thrill is to see the students growing in confidence because that is what will make the difference when it comes to interviews.

“We hear how the economy is at the moment and it is about trying to get them that one step ahead of the competition. To see some of them come away with jobs at the end of it is fantastic.”

Jack Pratchett and Reece Geraghty, both 17, took part in work placements at branches of banking group Halifax last year and both have since been offered part-time jobs while they finish their studies.

Reece said: “It changed our paths a lot. Before I was thinking about going to university but I’ve not decided I want to stay on and continue working at Halifax.”

Jack added: “I didn’t know what I wanted to do but it was a good experience. The stuff we were doing was quite pressured but we were treated like a member of the team.”

This year’s students met their new mentors for the first time this morning and will be offered a range of advice, including lectures from business experts, over the coming months.

Conservative MP Mr Harrington praised the project and called on more businesses to offer placement opportunities to students.

He said: “It is something that is beneficial to the employer but also hugely beneficial to the young person. I really believe this is the future for all schools and Queens’ is very much ahead of the game.”