STRETFORD and Urmston MP Beverley Hughes visited North Trafford College last week.

She was meeting some of the pupils embarking on a scheme aiming to expand chances for professional vocational education for 14-16 year olds.

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) has developed links with local colleges, enabling young pupils to start careers in finance.

AAT is offering students the chance to obtain an AAT NVQ Level 2 in Accounting, and Ashton in Mersey and Lostock high schools have signed up already, with more schools anticipated next September.

Labour's Children's Minister said: "These pupils are at the forefront of something very new, exciting and different.

"It's a great example of colleges and schools working together to deliver a range of options to suit young learners."

Eileen Wildman, AAT programme manager at North Trafford College added: "We are delighted with the response from schools to the scheme and have worked hard alongside the AAT to ensure the college is suited to young learners."