A YOUNGSTER is following in the footsteps of his local MP...for his work experience.

Jack Duffield, 15, a pupil at King John School, Thundersley, has been given the chance to shadow Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris during Work Experience Week.

During the week, Jack, from Canvey, will accompany Mrs Harris at Westminster and her constituency as a way of learning useful work skills.

Since she was first elected, the MP has offered a week or more of work experience to 30 young constituents.

She said: “Work Experience Week is a great idea and highlights the huge benefits, both to employers and young people, of undertaking work experience.

“Having been a business employer myself, I know the value it adds to potential employees’ CVs. I try to offer it to as many young people as I can and I know several have gone on to good jobs – including two who now work for me full-time.

“I am pleased to be able to take Jack on for this week and hope the experience is of great value to him.

“I would recommend all businesses in Castle Point should look at taking on someone for work experience, or even go one step further and look at taking on an apprentice. The benefits for everyone are huge.”