STUDENTS can take a big step on the career ladder with a new apprenticeship.

New College Durham, in Durham City, has become one of the first colleges in the UK to run a podiatry apprenticeship.

Would-be podiatrists hoping to get a foot in the door can study an Advanced Apprenticeship in Clinical Health Care Support focusing on the role of a podiatry assistant from this month.

They will dip their toe into college for half a day a week, while spending the rest of the time with an employer.

Claire Kelly, the college’s curriculum manager, said: “This exciting new apprenticeship, which we think is a first for the UK, will offer a fantastic opportunity to those employed in a clinical setting, to gain the qualifications and experience to be a qualified podiatry assistant.

“This programme has been developed in conjunction with NHS managers to meet the demands of the industry.”

The apprenticeship is free, lasts around 18 months and could be a stepping stone to a full degree.

For more information, call 0191-375-4040 or email: help@newdur.ac.uk