BRIGHT school leavers are to be given the chance to bypass university for Whitehall.

Much like TV show The Apprentice, the Government is looking to give young people the chance to take a big step in their lives.

The civil service is recruiting 100 18-21 year olds for a two-year training programme that will start in September.

Cabinet Office Minister Francis Maude said the Fast Track Apprenticeship Scheme will allow school leavers who do not want to go into higher education to be recruited.

He said: "We are working to reform the civil service, building on its strengths while addressing its weaknesses."