A SCHEME which aims to offer more study choices to 14 to 19 years olds across Kirklees is entering its third year.

The Kirklees Collegiate scheme aims to get schools, colleges and work-based training companies to pool resources to give more choice to teenagers.

Launched in 2005 and funded by the Learning and Skills Council and Kirklees Council, it was officially launching its new prospectus today.

A ‘menu’ of subjects has been put together including animal care, business studies, catering, ceramics, dance, electronics, fabrication, IT, digital arts, health and social care, music, office skills, photography and Spanish.

Pupils can pick any of the subjects from the menu — and if the subject is not on offer at their own school, Kirklees Collegiates will transport them to the school, college or company where a class is being held.

Peter Swinden, Kirklees Collegiates manager, said around 750 students had been involved in the scheme last year using 80 different providers.

“What we do is all about trying to raise achievement and retain kids in education. It’s about allowing them to access a wider choice of subjects.”

The 14-19 Area Wide Prospectus is a Government-backed Department for Children, Schools and Families initiative that provides all 14 to 19 learners with ‘on line’ accurate information that they require about the learning opportunities available to them within Kirklees and beyond.

Kirklees Collegiates has developed a website for its prospectus at www.kirkleesoptions.org.uk which is now live and active and accessible to the public.

The prospectus provides access to online impartial, comprehensive information, advice and guidance for all 14 to 19 learners and their parents/carers about the opportunities available to them when making decisions and choices about their future.

Learners will be able to use the site to search for courses and find details relating to content, entry requirements, assessment and progression routes, as well as information about the providers, eg their contact details, location, recent performance and inspection results.