A series of drop-in events for graduates looking at becoming teachers, organised by the Northern Lights Teaching School Alliance, was launched in Skipton.

The first of five events was held at Skipton Girls’ High on October 21 and the next will be at Belle Vue Girls’ School, Bradford, next Thursday.

Northern Lights, of which Skipton Girls’ is a member, is expanding its school direct teacher-training programme so schools can take a bigger role in training teachers they will eventually employ.

The one-year programme will be delivered through schools in the area and working in partnership with the University of Leeds and Open University.

The programme is unique in that schools are directly responsible for recruiting candidates and trainees work alongside experienced teachers for a greater proportion of the course.

The programme is open to graduates, career changers and those fresh from their degree course.