AN initiative which works with students across the district to promote potential future careers within manufacturing has received top-level praise.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has described Bradford Manufacturing Weeks as an “excellent” scheme.

During the fortnight-long campaign, more than 60 manufacturers – twice as many as last year – linked-up with schools and colleges.

There were work placements, school talks and site tours for young people aged 14 to 18.

Around 6,000 work experiences were created.

Companies involved included Steeton-based Acorn Stairlifts, Keighley Laboratories and Airedale Chemical at Cross Hills.

Mr Williamson said: “In my speech to the Conservative conference, I said how apprenticeships and technical and vocational education are just as important and valuable as going to university and are equally as important to our economy. They can make sure Britain succeeds in the future.

“It is excellent projects like Bradford Manufacturing Weeks that show young people some of the exciting and valuable opportunities there and give them the belief that with the right help and support, they can achieve anything they want.”

Forty-five secondary schools took part in this year’s initiative, organised by West and North Yorkshire Chamber and delivered by Bradford Chamber of Commerce.

It included the district’s first Bradford Apprentices Live event, at Keighley College.

Nick Garthwaite, founder of Bradford Manufacturing Weeks, said: “It’s fantastic to receive support from the Government, which further demonstrates that we are on absolutely the right track with our initiative.

“We have created a model that is working and most importantly, a model which gives young people an insight into the wonderful world of manufacturing. In many cases, it is proving a game changer in their career decision-making process.

“That said, businesses, education providers and the Government have a lot more work to do to promote the apprenticeship programmes to make them become an even more attractive option. This is why Bradford Manufacturing Weeks is such an important part of our district’s business calendar and why we intend to grow it.”