SIX Scottish colleges have joined with Strathclyde University to ­create a new Engineering Academy.

Student will be taught key practical and vocational skills needed to increase their chances of gaining ­employment in the industry.

Stow College, City of Glasgow College, Forth Valley College, West College Scotland, North Glasgow College and Glasgow Clyde College are involved in the partnership.

The scheme will see 80 additional students go on to study Engineering at the university every year.

Due to launch this month, it will be run in conjunction with SEMTA, the engineering body.

Limited places are still available from the university.

Potential applicants need to have at least three higher qualifications, including mathematics at grade B or above.