DUDLEY'S McDonald's is serving up a nationally recognised qualification with their burger and fries as part of a new work experience programme.

Castlegate restaurant franchisee Afia Sirkhot is providing young people with the opportunity to gain invaluable experience and boost their CV and employment potential, as part of a new project launched by the fast food chain.

The nationally recognised qualification – a Level 2 BTEC certificate in Work Skills and accredited by leading awarding body EdExcel - requires each learner to complete a ten-day placement, which covers teamwork, communication skills and even gives the individual mock interview practice at the start and finish of the placement. In addition, the learner must complete the remaining fifth of the work experience module in their normal school environment.

Mrs Sirkhot said: “When young people come into my restaurant for work experience, we aim to help build their confidence and give them a valuable taste of working in a team in a fast-paced, business environment."

A new survey, commissioned by McDonald's highlighted 82 per cent of West Midlands young people felt a strong academic record was no longer enough to guarantee a good job, with 84 per cent agreeing work experience gives applicants the employment edge.