THE motor industry in Bolton is helping to get the next generation of business minds fast tracked into the profession.

Farnell Jaguar Bolton teamed up with Harper Green School to reward the hard work of three GCSE pupils with a taste of the industry.

Year 11 pupils Kelcea Macdonald, Lewis Shore and Jordan Greenhalgh spent the afternoon at the Bolton Road dealership as a reward for their outstanding efforts in their maths and English studies.

General manager James Boyd said: "The dealership was more than happy to give Harper Green pupils an insight into the motor retail industry. They were really interested in learning about the different routes into various different parts of the sector.

"I don’t think enough young people realise that there are opportunities to forge a career in every area of the sector, including marketing, sales, mechanics, hospitality, accounting, design and much more."

As well as gaining an insight into careers in the motor industry from Mr Boyd, the lucky three were taken for a spin in some of the dealership’s luxury vehicles.

The visit is part of a sustained effort by all franchises owned by Vertu Motors plc, the parent company of Farnell and Bristol Street motors, to encourage more young people to enter the business.

Lewis said: "It was great to spend some time at the dealership and speak to James about career opportunities.

"I didn’t realise there were quite so many options and it has certainly given me a lot to think about."

All Year 11 pupils at Harper Green were given the challenge to "go above and beyond" in lessons in the run up to to their GSCE exams.

Successes were ticked off and at the end of the month each student received one raffle ticket per tick. Kelcea, Lewis and Jordan’s tickets were picked as winners of a prize draw to visit the dealership.

Head of English, Clare Doherty added: "All three had a fantastic day. Hopefully they learnt a lot and left feeling that it was a worthwhile experience.

"It’s great to be able to demonstrate the breadth of potential job opportunities with Farnell Jaguar to the students. I hope this is just the start of an ongoing relationship, which will benefit both our pupils, and Farnell."