South East Derbyshire College is organising a second intake of students for the first time in January.

Young people interested in beauty, care, construction and motor vehicles will be able to start courses at the college in Ilkeston and Heanor in late January.

An open evening is planned at the college in Field Road, Ilkeston, on Thursday, January 10, from 5 to 8pm.

The level one courses on offer are ideal for young people who have either have not passed any GCSEs or whose grades were E,F and G.

Head of 14 to 19 Curriculum Kate Martin said: “We are introducing a second intake this year largely due to the number of young people who have been contacting the college over recent weeks.

“Many have found it more difficult than they thought to get a job and are realising that they need further qualifications to get on. It is not fair to make them wait until next September so this January start will ensure they have not missed too much of the course.

“Many of the students who start with us at level one, then progress right through to level 3, which is the equivalent of A levels, and onto a job or university.”

These include construction students Natasha Craze, 18, and Luke Harrison, 17, both from Cotmanhay, who started at level one and have their sights set on a level 3 apprenticeship next year.

Luke said: “I really enjoy the course and hope that I can get an apprenticeship next year to be able to get more qualifications.”

Natasha said: “I didn’t really like school and came out with average GCSE’s. I came here because I wanted to do something different and prove that girls can be as good as boys at things like construction. It’s great here. We work hard but have a good laugh as well.”

For more information about the courses, contact 0115 849 2020 or visit www.sedc.ac.uk.