JUST over two years ago, Alex Lacey was a Year 9 student at Basingstoke's Costello Technology College when he heard about a new course at BCOT - the young apprenticeship for the motor industry.

Alex met the stringent entry criteria, got a place, attended college one day each week for two years and, at the age of 16, passed with distinction the Level 2 progression award in motor vehicle maintenance and repair - a qualification students don't normally achieve until 18 years of age.

Then, when most students with his qualifications would be planning to go to college, Alex (pictured) decided to leave school and apply for an advanced apprenticeship with Martins Volkswagen, in Hatch.

"My dad works for Ericsson," said Alex, "and has always encouraged my interest in how things work. I like hands-on activities, but the automotive course at BCOT gave me a theoretical background too.

"The time in the electronic diagnostic lab showed how interesting things might be if I joined the industry."

Dwayne White, the after-sales manager at Martins Volkswagen, is Alex's boss.

He said: "Alex had to compete against others for his apprenticeship, but the scheme does let us see the students for 50 days' work experience.

"It gives businesses the opportunity to select the right person who fits in with the team. We are delighted with how Alex has settled in."

Being an apprentice has exceeded Alex's expectations.

He said: "My time at Martins has not been like the stories you hear about apprentices sweeping up and making tea.

"I have been doing real work. It's the basics on engines, steering and brakes, under supervision, but I have also shadowed the experienced technicians when they do the really complex things."

The young apprenticeship programme allowed Alex to start an advanced apprenticeship two years early at the age of 16.

Apprenticeships let you start your career immediately with a real job. They can also lead to university as the frameworks have UCAS points.

For more information about apprenticeships at BCOT, call 01256 306237 or e-mail business@bcot.ac.uk For a full list of all the courses available, visit www.bcot.ac.uk/business