Fast food chain McDonald's is offering a qualification in work experience, becoming the first UK employer to do so.

People interested to spend 10 days serving fries can land a BTEC certificate in work skills equivalent to a GCSE grade B or C.

McDonald's insists the aim is to improve teamwork and communication, which can help pupils while looking for job.

Students need to complete 16 hours of classroom study in addition to their McDonald's work to get the Edexcel board's certificate.

"A placement will give young people on-the-job experience in a fast-paced business environment, a great set of all-round skills for any workplace, and a national qualification," the Daily Express quoted David Fairhurst, of McDonald's UK, as saying.

However, Nick Seaton, chair of pressure group the Campaign for Real Education, has raised some doubts.

He said: "I would have thought there were much more useful GSCE subjects that would impress employers more.

"It devalues the tougher GCSEs in languages, the sciences and maths." (ANI)