That's the news two Kirkham students are celebrating after being offered much sought after careers with BAE Systems.

Michelle Hook and Nathan Chase, who both attend Carr Hill High School and Sixth Form Centre, have beaten off stiff competition to join the highly desirable Project Control Foundation Scheme at the Warton aerodrome.

Almost 160 school and college students applied for the 11 places on offer at Warton and 18-year-old-Michelle and Nathan, 17, sailed through the tough selection process to secure their futures.

Michelle will work in engineering while Nathan will concentrate on the Typhoon project.
The pair are currently busy studying for their final A-Level exams in the summer but both are delighted to have been given the opportunity.

Nathan said: "It is great to have got this. I was really pleased when I found out I had the place and now I just want to work my way up as high as I can in the company."

Michelle added: "To be able to get experience working for a massive international company is great. It's such an opportunity for both of us and I am really looking forward to it."

The BAE scheme sees the students train on the job for five years during which time they will also attend Blackpool and Fylde College with a view to gaining a degree in Project Management from Lancaster University.

Foundation Scheme Project Manager at BAE Don Hazeldine said: "It's very exciting for the people that get in. This is not an easy option but they will work in a well structured environment and they are given our full support.

Nick Beale, Director of Post-16 Studies at Carr Hill, added: "I am delighted Michelle and Nathan have been successful in their application, particularly given the fierce competition for places."