WITH GCSE results foremost in many students' minds, North Devon McDonald's franchisee David Hunt is keen to point out the benefits of continuing study while at work.

He said: "It can be a daunting time as the job market is tough, particularly for those starting out in their careers, and at the same time university places are being squeezed.

"But it's not all bad news — there are a range of opportunities for young people now that give them the chance to keep gaining qualifications once they leave school.

"So it's not the end of the world if you haven't got the grades you wanted.

"Work-based qualifications that many employers like myself now offer mean it's possible to work whilst studying to help you do whatever you want in the future.

"If you choose the right employer, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and fulfil your long-term potential."

McDonald's offers its employees a range of training opportunities, investing some £30 million in training every year. 90 per cent of its restaurant managers started out as crew, with the average tenure of a manager almost 15 years, while over 6,000 employees have signed up to its apprenticeship scheme.

McDonald's learning ladder starts with basic skills qualifications in maths and English, leading on to apprenticeships, and even a Level 3 diploma in shift management.