TORBAY teenagers are being offered the chance to learn from some of the region's most successful firms as part of a new diploma course.

Students between the ages of 14 and 19 studying the Diploma in Business, Administration and Finance are being offered work placements as part of their course.

Firms including Cavanna Homes, Rok, The Grosvenor Hotel, Boots and McDonald's are taking part in the scheme.

Cavanna Homes, the South West's largest independent homebuilder, has taken on students from Brixham Community College, Torquay Community College and Westlands School.

Their placement will involve learning about the building process, land acquisition and planning process.

They will also spend time with managers to learn about clear communication and precise timetabling in the construction industry.

Eugene Rapson, Cavanna finance director, is coordinating the placements on behalf of the homebuilder.

He said: "We are really pleased to have the opportunity to pass on our expertise to young people who are interested in learning more about our industry.

"Systems and good communications are essential in construction because the process is so complex.

"From organising the deliveries of materials to having the right tradesmen on site at the right time through to making sure that houses are built to a high standard, on time and on budget — every little step of the process needs to be planned and executed meticulously."

He added: "The programme we provide for the students gives them hands-on experience of organising and communicating.

"In one task they are asked to book appointments with our managers and interview them with planned and relevant questions.

"In another they are asked to analyse anonymous CVs and job applications and decide which candidates they would choose to interview."

Nick Fieldhouse, head of business and enterprise at Torbay Boys' Grammar School, who are administering the BAF Diploma course said: "We are thrilled to have Cavanna Homes fully on board with the delivery of this exciting new qualification.

"Work experience placements are an essential aspect of the successful delivery of the BAF Diploma."