Swindon IT firm Thirdline has become an official sponsor of a pioneering scheme in the town to help young people prepare for the world of work and improve the local talent pool.
Courses taking place through the project will help participants get a better understanding of their strengths and interests and steer them towards careers they will enjoy and excel in. 
The idea is backed by a number of Swindon firms and coordinated by Back on Track Teens, the local organisation that inspires young people through personal development programmes. Author, trainer and Back on Track Teens founder TeeJay Dowe is coordinating the scheme.
The first two-day course is taking place Swindon's Brunel shopping centre today and tomorrow. The Brunel, a sponsor, is giving up its boardroom for the course.
Thirdline founder and chief executive officer Jack Peploe, 27, who has been running his IT, cloud and communications company for more than 10 years, said: “Being young myself I understand some of the struggles young people have when it comes to finding work.
“I’m a big believer in helping ambitious teenagers get their foot on the career ladder. We have a number of young talented staff at Thirdline who excel in what they do.
“We are very proud to be sponsoring such a worthwhile cause that helps develop young people.”
The backing from Thirdline and The Brunel means the Work Ready course is free. It is open to 18 to 23 year olds living in the Swindon area.
Youth support charity Inner Flame, Jackie Kerr Recruitment and Threshold Housing Link have enrolled young people for the Work Ready course.
To find out more about Back on Track Teens go to www.backontrackteens.com
