Dozens of Cheltenham youngsters are brimming with confidence and ready to take on their first interview thanks to GFirst and Gloucestershire County Council.

Around 50 students at All Saints' Academy took part in a unique interview skills workshop organised by the economic development company on Friday, January 27.

The pupils were able to direct and participate in the workshop as a team of actors and professional trainers acted out an interview scenario, with the aim of giving them confidence to do well when it comes to the real thing.

Aaron Mason, 15, from Cheltenham, said: "I think it was really useful and it showed us what to do and what not to do when we get into the real thing."

Katie Harris, 15, from Cheltenham, said: "Before it started I thought it was going to be like a lesson but it was really good and we got to interact with it and learn what to do and what not to do. I think it will really help us in the future to get into 6th form or getting a job."

Development Manager at GFirst, Mike Curran said: "With increased competition to obtain a place in a University, an apprenticeship, or a job in a declining marketplace the pressure is on students, like never before, to have extremely effective interviewing skills. The aim was to provide a truly uplifting experience for the students which would increase their confidence and competence whilst providing intellectual stimulation and, importantly, provide learning associated with enjoyment and fun. The immediate reaction from the students afterwards would clearly suggest we have met this aim."

Funded by Gloucestershire County Council it is one of six pilots aimed at delivering private sector-led, high quality enterprise and innovation support for students while improving the links between businesses and schools.

Gloucestershire County Councillor Brian Robinson said: "Good interview skills are critical to achieve success and get into your chosen career. These workshops take some of the pressure out of interviews and give the students invaluable skills to take them into college, university or into work."