A SECONDARY school in Burnley has started its own recruitment agency to help students prepare for life after education.

The Job Junction will be open at Sir John Thursby, in Eastern Avenue, two days a week for youngsters to apply for jobs, practice interview skills and learn more about local firms.

And the junction will also be run by students at Sir John Thursby, who have been specially trained to work there.

Lesley Burrows, managing director at Positive Footprint, said: “The job junction is the first of its kind in the country.

“We have been down to Parliament and explained the idea and the Government are keen to see it developed.

“At the job junction students can see local vacancies that are being advertised and Year 11 students can apply for those roles.

“Other students can experience interviews and see how the recruitment process works. We will be working with local companies to get them to help students understand how they work.

“We want students to have a better idea of the career they want, which will help focus their minds on their education.”

David Burton, head teacher at Sir John Thursby, said: “It is fantastic to have the job junction here and it will be a great benefit to our students.

“Every student leaving here last year had a job, apprenticeship or college place secured, and that is something we want to continue.”