A former student is on course for success after landing a job at Preston College under the government's New Deal initiative.

Sam McCrea, of Quarry Road, Chorley, made such an impression as a student at the college that tutors urged her to apply for a job as an administrative assistant in the principal's office.

Now two months into the job, Sam has fitted in well, earning the praise of her colleagues. The 20-year-old had been out of work for six months when she decided to take a course in office technology at Preston through New Deal. Her local advisor found a suitable course and arranged the necessary funding.

But Sam wowed tutors with her commitment to the course, and was invited to apply for the administrative position. She started work at the end of April as a Modern Apprentice, which allows her to continue with her studies while earning a full-time wage.

Sam said: "I couldn't believe it, being given this opportunity after just four months on New Deal. I'm over the moon."

New Deal is designed to get people who have been unemployed for more than six months back into work either directly or through training.

Karen Roberts at Chorley Jobcentre, Sam's New Deal advisor, said: "Sam's story perfectly demonstrates that hard work will pay off under New Deal and that there is a flexibility under the initiative which allows jobseekers to start work while building on their skills by continuing their training.

"Sam fully deserves the success she has achieved and we wish her all the best in her new role."

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