Inspiring the next generation is the aim of a Dream Placement scheme.

Hundreds of students from across Cumbria are expected to apply to take part in this year’s competition, to win a placement with some of the county's leading firms.

It is organised by the Centre for Leadership Performance, based at Cockermouth, and aims to bring together students and companies to provide young people with opportunities to launch a successful career.

This year's scheme will be launched on Monday. Applications close on October 30.

Sharon Nixon, project manager for CfLP, said: "In their applications I would recommend that as well as saying why they want a Dream Placement, students should also say what they can bring to the placement - what can they offer to the companies?

"Also, they should remember that the short-listers will be looking through hundreds of applications so anything that makes their application stand out is great - and it certainly isn't all about academic achievement, other skills and experiences are just as important."

Candidates will be whittled down to 100 students who will meet potential host companies at a selection day.

This selection days will be held on Thursday December 7 at Energus, Lillyhall. The event enable students and employers to meet. There will be various activities, including speed-interviewing, which help to match the student's skills and aptitudes to the various employers.

The scheme aims to place as many students as possible.

Successful students are then allocated to companies and invited to a development day which will take place at Energus, Lillyhall, on Saturday January 27.

CfLP organises this development day and provides a variety of activities to prepare students for their placement week.

During the February half-term holiday (February 12 to 16) the students will spend the week with their host companies to learn more about how the businesses operate and the opportunities that are available to them within that industry.

Following the placement week, a showcase event will be held on March 22 to celebrate the achievements of students.

Some of the companies involved in the process include Sellafield, Amcor Flexibles, Gen2, NuGen, NHS Foundation Trust, React Engineering and Allerdale Borough Council.

For more details, or to apply, go to: http://www.cforlp.org.uk/