PORTLAND apprentices are hoping to engineer themselves a successful career.

Precision engineers PGT-Ceewrite on Portland were so impressed by the three IPACA students on work experience that the company have now taken them on as apprentices.

Oliver Freeman, Kieren Holden and Harrison Varney, all 16, all studied at IPACA on Portland and all were offered work experience during their Easter holidays.

Production manager Ian Gray spotted the aptitude displayed by the students while working in the demanding environment. The company produces engineered components for the high precision aviation industries – customers include Honeywell, Claverham, Rolls Royce and Threesixty Aerospace.

The students began their training last week and are working towards recognised qualifications.

Oliver said: “I heard that we had done well during the work experience and the interview.

“My exams went very well but I knew I needed to stay focused.

“I’m really pleased about this opportunity. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do.”

Kieren said: “This is a really good chance to train while earning some money. I don’t think that university is the right route for everybody.”

Harrison said that technology was his favourite subject.

He said: “This is a great way to learn more about something I enjoy. It’s great.”