YOUNG people have been learning mechanical engineering skills on a new Get into Engineering programme.

The two week course covered everything from changing tires and puncture repair, to measuring, welding and machining steel, and seven of the nine participants are already signed up to apprenticeships or long-term training courses.

The group received their course completion certificates in a celebration on Friday at the Paragon Skills training centre in Boscombe.

Krissy Jeffs, 20, from Southbourne, said she had learned skills vital to pursuing her dream of becoming a car mechanic.

“It is something I have always wanted to be, I have always been surrounded by cars,” she said.

“I have loved every minute of the course, it has been really interesting and everyone here has been really supportive. I am hoping this will help my chances.”

Chris Sherwood, 23, from Romsey, added: “I have been struggling to find a job since I left school about seven years ago, and I am qualified as a fitness instructor.

“I thought this sounded interesting and hopefully it will provide some more job opportunities.”

The programme was organised by the Princes Trust and Paragon, and is the first collaboration between the pair.

Trust programme manager Beverley Britton said the goal was to reduce youth unemployment and start a new generation of engineers on their way.

“Youth unemployment is a problem at the moment, and for some there is a negative perception that young people don’t want to work, but that is untrue, they want jobs,” she said.

“These courses can be a life changing experience for young people who don’t always have many opportunities, it can open doors. We are going to need engineers in future and it takes a few years for them to learn the required skills so this course is about getting them enthused about that sector.”

Paragon operations manager Allan Rooney added: “We are very pleased with this partnership.

“Two weeks isn’t a very long time but we have covered a number of essential skills they can build on through an apprenticeship, and this group have really been terrific.”