Fifteen childcare trainees at York Training Centre have successfully completed the first part of their Early Years Progression Award, while two more students have passed the more advanced level of the exam.

This is the first time that York Training Centre, which is part of City of York Council's Economic Development section, has entered candidates for these qualifications, which require external exams and the production of "key skills" portfolios.

All of the learners are aged between 16 and 24 and on apprenticeship schemes funded by North Yorkshire Learning and Skills Council. They are all studying at local day nurseries and attend York Training Centre one day a week.

Updated: 11:58 Friday, August 20, 2004