Students preferring work-based vocational training to further education are on the look-out for Modern Apprenticeship opportunities in Oxford, writes David Duffy.

Many young people launch their careers through St Aldate's-based Intec Business Colleges specialists in administration, customer service, IT and management train- ing programmes.

Intec is now asking local firms: "Does your company need a motivated Modern Apprentice?"

The young people will emerge with nationally recognised qualifications to NVQ level 3 and beyond.

Intec Oxford manager, Liz Clarke, said: "Intec works in partnership with companies to develop flexible courses which take into account the needs of both employer and apprentice, and for businesses who take on a Modern Apprentice there are substantial subsidies available."