Fast Forward, run Sandwell Council’s Think Sandwell team , offers young people aged 16 to 24 an outward bound course at the Frank Chapman Centre in Bewdley. Everything is provided, from meals and equipment to transport.

The five day programme has been designed to support young people who would like to go into a job or apprenticeship and would like to improve their teamwork, communication, confidence.

Over a week of outdoor activities young people can get advice from members of the Area Employment Team to talk about career options and help with applying for the apprenticeships with the council and local employers.

Fast Forward has already proved a great success and has helped almost 60 young people into apprenticeships or further education since courses began in 2013.

Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for children’s services is urging young people to apply for the next available course starting on Monday 18 September running until Friday 22 September.

He said: “I’m so impressed with the work our staff are doing with young people to get them into an apprenticeship or further education.

“This course is a great opportunity for young people to learn the skills they need to get them into a position to apply for apprenticeships to help them get ready for the workplace.

“There are still a few spaces left for the next available course so I encourage young people to get in touch with the team.”

If young people aged 16 to 24 are interested in a place please email   enquiries_recruitment@sandwell.gov.uk or call 0121 569 2099.

Fast Forward is part of the council’s initiative to get young people into apprenticeships, jobs and training. For details on apprenticeship vacancies go to: www.sandwell.gov.uk/apprenticeships.