YOUNG people who missed out on going to college in September are being given a second chance to gain a qualification this year.

Swindon College has created a new, free course called Springboard, which is being supported by Connexions and the Wiltshire and Swindon Learning and Skills Council.

The course, which is aimed at the 16 to 19 age group, will start next month and run full-time for 17 weeks until July.

Students can study subjects such as construction, retail or catering and hospitality.

The course will also include a residential week at an outdoor activity centre, as well as support in key skills.

Course co-ordinator John Savage said: "We know there are lots of young people out there who would like a second chance to go to college and we want them to come and talk to us.

"This is a really exciting, new opportunity for people who perhaps left it too late to enrol in college in September, maybe started a job or course which hasn't worked out, or those who have realised they need skills and qualifications to improve their job prospects,"

For information phone John Savage on 0800 731 2250, or e-mail admissions@swindon-college.ac.uk.