A PIONEERING college for military hopefuls has been shortlisted in one of the UK’s top awards for further education.

The MPCT group (Motivational Preparation College for Training) - which offers opportunities to young people through training and education - runs the Eastbourne Military Preparation College.

The college, for 16 to 19-year-olds, has been chosen as one of seven finalists for the prestigious TES Further Education Awards 2016 in the category for Training Provider of the Year

MPCT has 19 Military Preparation College bases across the UK. It is run by ex-military instructors and is free to attend, receiving Government funding.

It operates a ‘roll on, roll off’ joining process, meaning that students can join at any time during the year.

The Sussex site is based at the Kings Centre in Edison Road, Eastbourne,

Huw Lewis MBE, founder and managing director of MPCT, said: "The TES FE Awards are the most prestigious in the further education calendar and we’re highly honoured to be in the running for Training Provider of the Year.

"Our approach to education and continued positive results working with young people from all backgrounds proves that successful outcomes can be achieved with the right environment put in place.

"All of our instructors are committed to helping young people to become their best.

"It continues to be my privilege to witness young people make the very difficult transition from childhood to adulthood and develop into positive, productive role models in their own right.

"MPCT has been chosen as one of seven awards finalists. The shortlisting recognises the college’s unique ‘active learning’ curriculum and focus on helping young people to reach their full potential by improving fitness levels, self-confidence and life skills."

The college gives those interested in pursuing military careers the chance to pass selection for the Armed Forces, and complete basic training.

It is also hoped it helps young people to move forward with further education, training and other employment routes by instilling valuable core values and life skills that are transferable to a range of vocations.