STUDENTS from Kent are learning more about public sector careers ahead of University thanks to a new Government-backed project.

Gateways to the Professions has been launched by Canterbury Christ Church University to encourage sixth-form students from five Kent schools to consider a career in education, policing or the health care sector.

The scheme, the first of its kind in the UK, allows young people to gain insight into public service work and to study at university level while still at school to give them a better understanding of their preferred career.

More than 100 school pupils have taken part in the project, which culminated in a training day at the university last Wednesday.

Pupils have the option of specialising in education, health or crime and policing, and can study a range of modules such as adult nursing, speech and language therapy, criminal investigation; and diagnostic radiography.

Chaucer Technology School in Canterbury, Fulston Manor School in Sittingbourne, Swadelands School in Lenham, Minster College in Sheppey and St George's Church of England Foundation School in Broadstairs are all taking part in the initial stage of the project.

Student Jade Greenham, 18, of St George's School in Broadstairs is specialising in health, and said: "I am very interested in pursuing a career in nursing and midwifery because I want to devote my life to caring for others. So far, we have learnt a lot on this scheme and I am really enjoying it."

Participant who complete the one-year project gain an additional 10 higher education points to put on their UCAS application forms.

Canterbury Christ Church University's Director of Regional Academic Development, Elizabeth Hoult, said: "The aim of this project is to give young people an insight into the education of public service professionals as well as a taste of university life.

“I have been just so impressed by the level of commitment and enthusiasm that these young people have shown for taking on careers that will support their communities.”