Open Doors North West Summer 2011

Sector Spotlight We shed some light on working in Automotive, Health & Social Care, Business & Finance and much more!

Supporting Apprenticeship Week7 - 11 February 2011

Open DoorsNortH WESt EditioN

Issue 1Summer 2011

ISSN: 2046-6552

open d

oors – The Regional Training ProspectusIssue 1 | N

orth West Edition | Sum

mer 2011

apprenticeShipS / careerS / training / jobS

• Regional overview • Inspiring stories • Check out our new Facebook page

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Scale the heights

Your apprenticeship can take you there

Use your qualification as a passport to work on

exciting projects all over the world. Or study

further to specialise in an innovative or

challenging field. Or think about running your

own successful business

Start your career journey with JTL now. It’s up to you how far you go!

Why you should choose the people who train more electricians and plumbers than anyone else:

l Real career qualifications l Earn while you learnl Personal support of an experienced Training Officer

Electrical or plumbing Advanced Apprenticeships with JTL

ELECTRICAL PLUMBINGENGINEERING MAINTENANCE HEAT & VENTMOTOR

REWIND

www.jtltraining.comvisit to apply

Scale the heights

Your apprenticeship can take you there

Use your qualification as a passport to work on

exciting projects all over the world. Or study

further to specialise in an innovative or

challenging field. Or think about running your

own successful business

Start your career journey with JTL now. It’s up to you how far you go!

Why you should choose the people who train more electricians and plumbers than anyone else:

l Real career qualifications l Earn while you learnl Personal support of an experienced Training Officer

Electrical or plumbing Advanced Apprenticeships with JTL

ELECTRICAL PLUMBINGENGINEERING MAINTENANCE HEAT & VENTMOTOR

REWIND

www.jtltraining.comvisit to apply

Open Doors – Summer 2011 - North West edition

...and this is our Regional Training Prospectus, here to help you decide what to do next. It’s an exciting time, after all – there are endless opportunities, right on your doorstep. You could start earning qualifications and money with an Apprenticeship, get a taste of the working world with a Diploma, carry on learning at college and more.

In this first issue, we focus on some of the most booming sectors in the North West, like Automotive, Health & Social Care, and Business & Finance, and explain how to take the first step on a career path. We also cover all the other main sectors out there, and explore local trends.

We’ve also got a guide to qualifications, helpful advice on work-based learning and a step by step guide on how to use our brand new facebook page.

You’ll find plenty of other people in this Prospectus who can help you get ahead – learning providers, colleges and local councils.

the future is in your hands...right here in this Prospectus. So turn the page and let’s get started!

Hello, we’re open Doors...

www.twitter.com/opendoorsmedia

Facebook: Search for -

The Regional Training Prospectus

FInD Us

on FACeBooK

Publisher – Karl [email protected]

Editor – Lisa [email protected]

Editorial Contributor – Stan [email protected]

Business Development and SalesSimon [email protected]

Design – SBT Design, [email protected]

Distribution [email protected]

Subscriptions [email protected]

To contact us:0845 388 [email protected]

Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus is published by Open Doors Media Ltd ©2011.

ISSN – 2046-6552All material is copyrighted both written and illustrated. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. All images and information is collated from extensive research and along with advertisements is published in good faith. Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at press time, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.

Throughout this Prospectus, you’ll see lots of facts and figures about our region and its sectors. We get them from UK National Statistics, various Sector Skills Councils, regional development agencies and industry experts. Wikipedia had nothing to do with any of it!


03

the intro Bits

the perfect place to start, jump straight to any section that instantly appeals or keep turning the pages and continue reading – it’s all here to help you find your dream career

Contents

the intro bits careers insight

07 Get Into trAInInG An introduction to training, your options and how to get started

10 QUAlIFICAtIons tABle See how different qualifications add up, and how they compare

12 lIFe storIes Past and present students tell us all about their experiences and how they succeeded

17 Motor veHICle seCtor Love cars? There are lots of careers on offer

21 HeAltH & soCIAl CAre seCtor If you’ve got a big heart, put it to good use in a caring career

25 envIronMentAl & lAnD-BAseD seCtor Consider a career out in the fresh air

29 It & teleCoMs seCtor This cutting edge sector isn’t just for the geeks, you know

33 BUsIness & FInAnCe seCtor Fancy a high-flying career?

37 IMAGIne A CAreer... We give you a heads-up on the other sectors out there, which we’ll cover in later issues

the intro Bits

04


p17 Motor vehicle

sector

Here’s how it worksEvery term, we publish a new issue of Open Doors that covers five sectors in detail so you get a good idea of what a career in those industries would be like. Don’t worry if the sector you’re keen on isn’t one of the five – you’ll find it in our overview of remaining sectors in the ‘Imagine a career in...’ article. With each new issue, we’ll cover five totally new sectors in detail, so make sure you look out for us next term.If there’s anything else you’d like us to cover, or if you just want to say hello, email us at [email protected]. We want to make sure our magazine offers everything you need (or just want to read about)! Happy reading, and hope you have a great term.

Useful Stuff

43 spotlIGHt on tHe nortH west All about your region

52 More HelpFUl stUFF Useful links, contact details and more – because you can never have too much information

54 FInD Us on FACeBooK Get in on the discussions, say hello and win prizes


05

the intro Bits

p21 health & social care sector

p25 environmental &

land-based sector

p29 it & telecoms sector

p33 business & finance sector

Get Into trAInInG

there are training

opportunities in every

sector, from engineering to

Media

apprenticeship qualifications

can count towards

university

employers value

vocational qualifications

research shows that apprentices earn over £100,000 more throughout

their lifetime than other employees

on average, apprentices

earn £170 per week

More and more, employers are looking for people with the right skills to do the job. Work-based learning, like an Apprenticeship, is a great way to start a career, earn qualifications and get paid...all at the same time!


07

the intro Bits

If you know what career you want to pursue, why not start working towards it? Work-based learning is a great way to learn the exact skills needed to do your job. You earn a nationally-recognised qualification, like an NVQ, which all employers value. In addition to industry-specific work, you’ll also learn important transferable skills like communication skills, teamwork and how to meet deadlines.

Work-based learning courses are designed to fit around you and your employers needs. This means you could agree with your employer to leave work to study one day a week at college, attend workshops or take up evening classes.

ApprenticeshipsOne of the most popular types of work-based learning is an Apprenticeship, which lets you learn while working and earning money. Apprenticeships are a recognised route into most sectors.

There are more than 180 Apprenticeships available in over 80 sectors including Business, Engineering, Media and more. Apprenticeships can lead to qualifications like an NVQ, a BTEC qualification, or National Certificates. They can take anywhere from one to three years to finish – it all depends on which one you decide to take.

To be qualified for an Apprenticeship, you can’t be in full time education and have to be at least 16 years old. You can find out everything you need to know about Apprenticeships here: www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

Foundation degreesThis is a higher education vocational work-based qualification that helps you build up your practical skills and knowledge in the workplace. You don’t need the traditional qualifications to do one.

worK It!Work-based learning gives you the chance to learn and earn – and give your career a real headstart

tfStIf you’re already working but your job doesn’t offer training, you could be eligible for something called Time Off for Study or Training (TfST). You can qualify if you are 16 or 17 and did not get any Level 2 qualifications at school (like GCSEs at grades A*-C or NVQ Level 2).

TfST entitles you to reasonable paid time off during normal working hours to study or train for an approved Level 2 qualification that will help improve your future employment prospects.

What’s my career?It’s okay if you haven’t figured out what you want to be when you grow up yet. If you’re unsure about a career, you don’t have to take the plunge into an Apprenticeship. Here are some good ways to explore careers while keeping your options open.

• 14-19 Diplomas – these qualifications are linked to 14 broad sectors. A mixture of classroom time and work experience, the Diploma gives you the knowledge and skills needed for a sector of work and can open up other options too.

• Foundation Learning – these manageable courses help you figure out what you want to study, and how you want to study it. All courses are at entry level or Level 1 and gives you the grounding to move up to Level 2 qualifications.

• Work experience/volunteering – an easy way to test out a career is to try it out for a week. Volunteering and work experience give you first hand knowledge of what a job is really like – it can help you make a decision.

the intro Bits

08


What’s on offer?There’s so much you can learn, from engineering to hairdressing. Find

out what courses and qualifications are available in your area with your

local 14-19 prospectus. They’re on page 52...

What’s your style?Everyone has a different learning style. Some people like

studying books while others prefer hands on learning. It’s

important to choose the type of learning that suits you!

There are three main types:

Work-based learningReady to start working? This type of learning involves

on-the-job practical training and work towards a nationally

recognised qualification, like an NVQ. You usually get

assessed through observation while you work.

Example: Apprenticeship

Vocationally-related learningIf you want a little bit of everything, this type of course is a

mixture of hands on learning, classroom learning and work

experience. You’ll get assessed through coursework, tests

and exams. Example: Diploma

Academic learningComfortable in the classroom? Academic learning is

studying the theory of a subject and can involve projects,

fieldwork or experiments. You’ll be assessed mainly on

written exams, plus some coursework.

Example: A Levels

Choosing your course

Make sure you pick the right course by asking yourself questions like:

• What am I good at?

• What subjects do I enjoy?

• Do I want to try something new?

• Do I prefer lectures or practical workshops?

• Where will the course lead? Does it fit in with my future plans?

Where can I study?There are different options, each with its own structure, atmosphere and courses on offer.

• Sixth forms You could study at your own school’s sixth form or branch out to a sixth form college. Sixth form colleges are usually bigger and more laid back than school sixth forms – plus, you’ll have the chance to meet new people.

• Further education colleges These can offer similar courses to sixth form colleges. Your fellow students may include adults of all ages as well as young people.

• Specialist colleges Some further education colleges specialise in particular areas, such as art and design, agriculture or drama.

YoUr CHoICeSome helpful tips to find the course that works for you...

09


09

the intro Bits

QUAlIFICAtIonsexplAIneD

Did you know that completing an Advanced Apprenticeship is the same as getting an A Level? There are lots of different qualifications – here’s how they compare. Remember that within any one level, qualifications can cover a wide mix of subjects and take different amounts of time to complete.

entrY level level 1 level 2 level 3

entry level Certificates

5 GCses (grades D-G)

5 GCses (grades A*-C) A levels Higher

Apprenticeship

skills for life

BteC Introductory

Diplomas and Certificates

Apprenticeship Advanced Apprenticeship

Foundation Degree

Functional skills at entry level

(english, maths and ICt)

oCr nationalsBteC First

Diplomas and Certificates

GCe in applied subjects

Diploma of Higher education

Awards, Certificates, and

Diplomas at entry level

nvQs at level 1

Foundation Diploma

nvQs at level 2

Higher Diploma

BteC Diplomas, Certificates and

Awards

nvQs at level 3

Advanced Diploma

HnD, HnC

level 4-8

the intro Bits

10


We have placements in the following:• Business Administration• Childcare, Learning and Development*• Customer Service and Contact Centre• IT• Retail• Sales and Telesales

• Warehousing and Distribution• Team Leading and Management• Playwork*• Travel and Tourism• Driving Goods Vehicles*

* Only available in certain regions

Apprentices wanted! Call us today

0845 602 9747

(quote: RT002)

www.intraining.co.uk/apprenticeships

If you are aged 16-24 and want to earn a recognised qualification Apprenticeships give you the power to succeed!

a ‘cereal’ apprenticeDaniel joined Trafford College from a local Grammar School. Knowing that he wanted to gain hands-on experience, he decided to study one of the many practical courses available at the College. Daniel studied for a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering (Operations and Maintenance), so when it came to deciding what to do after his College course, an Apprenticeship seemed like the ideal alternative to university.

Daniel approached his tutor for advice who pointed him in the direction of Kellogg’s. As with so many employers, Trafford College has a well established relationship with Kellogg’s, who have employed many Apprentices through the College, and Daniel took full advantage.

The skills Daniel had learned on his college course proved invaluable during his interview, where he impressed his employer with the range of skills he had gained, and was successfully offered an Apprenticeship placement.

In September 2010, Daniel began the 4 year Apprenticeship scheme at Kellogg’s, which saw him gaining hands-on skills in a wide variety of areas. Daniel commented, “The benefits of doing an Apprenticeship instead of going to university are that you gain real life experience, have no tuition fee debts, and the opportunity to learn practical skills”.

For more information about how to complete your Apprenticeship with Trafford College, visit www.trafford.ac.uk, or call 0161 886 7070.

lIFe storIesWarrington collegiate student wins north West plumber of the Year A student from Warrington

Collegiate is celebrating

success after being

named North West

Apprentice Plumber of

the year in the regional

finals of the Heating

Installers and Plumbers

(HIP) UK competition.

The competition is

a nationwide trade

competition aimed at supporting the younger

generation of apprentices and practicing tradesmen.

The competition gives trainee plumbers and heating

engineers the opportunity to work their way through a

series of challenges, providing them with insight and

valuable lessons on life in their chosen career.

21 year old plumbing student from Warrington,

Kristian Poyner won the North West heat of the

competition hosted at the Winwick Road campus.

Kristian completed a challenge to carry out a plumbing

installation from a set of drawings in an allocated time,

achieving the highest number of points for precision

of installation. His skilled completion of the challenge

helped him claim victory and a spot in the national final

in London later this year.

On winning the North West Plumber of the Year

Awards, Kristian said: “It was a very difficult test and I

couldn’t be happier about winning the title.

“It was really nerve racking completing the challenge

in the allocated time, but I’m proud that I was able to

complete the job to a professional standard. I know

the next round will be even tougher, but I’m definitely

up to the challenge.”

For more information visit: www.warrington.ac.uk

Warrington Collegiate, Winwick Road Campus,

Warrington WA2 8QA

01925 494494

the intro Bits

12


jtl apprenticeship Secures Sam’s career patDespite growing

up in a busy family

electrical contracting

business Samantha

Bennett hadn’t always

planned to become an

apprentice electrician

after leaving school

but now has no regrets

about the career path

she has taken as a JTL

electrical apprentice.

“Originally I went to

college to study interior

design course but I

found it wasn’t for me so I helped out more with office

work at my dad’s firm and began to go out on jobs helping

out on electrical installation work. Even to my surprise I

found out I really loved it and it was the right career path

for me.”

Serving her apprenticeship with ADB Alarms, founded by

her father Alan Bennett, Samantha’s daily work takes her

throughout the North West and the Midlands installing,

testing and maintaining fire alarms, CCTV and intruder

Alarms and CCTV.

“It’s a great career path and a fascinating part of the job

is learning about the technology which is bringing in

new innovations and gadgets at an ever faster pace,”

Samantha explained.

After completing a rigorous four year apprenticeship last

year, 21 year old Samantha’s career path was vindicated

when she became a finalist for the JTL 2010 Best

Apprentice Awards, which placed her among the highest

achieving top three per cent JTL apprentices in England

and Wales.

For further details: Contact JTL on 08000 852 2308 or go

to www.jtltraining.com

tasmin carves herself a careerAPPRENTICE Tasmin O’Brien is proving that working in construction is not just a job for the boys.

The 18-year-old is carving a career for herself as a joiner – and acting as a role model for other young women keen to go into the building industry.

Tasmin, is the only girl currently taking her joinery qualification at Wirral Metropolitan College as part of her Apprenticeship with Wirral Partnership Homes. She said: “I did my A-levels at school but always knew I wanted to have a trade. “Going into joinery is the best thing I could have done. It’s a great career with plenty of opportunities. It’s all about learning new skills and wanting to do a good job, whether you’re male or female.”

Wirral Met tutor Dave Gillies added: “She may be the only girl in the workshop but she’s a great apprentice and fits in really well in what hasalways been regarded as a traditionally male dominated industry.”

Tasmin recently competed in the Northwest Regional heat of the Skill Build Competition representing the College and her Employer.

To find out more about Apprenticeships and courses at Wirral Metropolitan College visit www.wmc.ac.uk or call 0151 551 7777.


13

the intro Bits

Stuart rigg - Mechanical Design apprenticeHi I’m Stuart and I am

a Mechanical Design

apprentice from Seascale.

When I applied to GEN II

I was already working as

a part time Chef in a local

restaurant. I considered

quite a few options, like

staying on at school,

becoming a fully trained

Chef and applying to

become an apprentice.

I originally applied to GEN II to become a mechanical

fitter but was really pleased to be offered one of only a

few places on the mechanical design programme.

What advice would you give someone who is

thinking of applying?

I would advise that if you thinking of doing an

apprenticeship to make sure you read all of the

information first before you make your decision about

which apprenticeship you would like to do. Find out

as much info as you can.

Can you explain what a mechanical design

apprenticeship is?

A mechanical design apprenticeship is about the

technical drawings of mechanical components and the

specifications that go with it. We learn a lot about the

mathematical side of things working out forces and

loads and work on the Computer Aided Design (CAD)

programmes. The design apprentices will eventually

make the drawings for the mechanical fitters to then

make the products. Although our training means that

we understand all of the workshop side of things we will

eventually be office based working in a design office.

So what do you plan to do when you finish your

Mechanical Design apprenticeship?

I’m hoping that when I finish my apprenticeship that I

will get a good career and go as far as I can. I want to

be a chartered engineer in a few years when I do my

degree and HNC.

For more information call 01900 701300

Or visit www.gen2training.co.uk/apprenticeships

Matthew’s retail route to successLike many of our students, Matthew Robinson fully embraced both the social and academic opportunities that College was able to offer him. He came from St Josephs RC High School in Horwich and during his time at College was involved in a wide range of extra curricular activities. He thoroughly enjoyed his time on the Student Council and took an active part in organising many social functions as well as having his say as a Student Governor. Matthew decided that university was not for him as he wanted to go directly into employment. Not wanting to settle for second best, he gained a much coveted place on the Marks and Spencer Trainee Management Scheme.

Matthew firmly believes his experiences at college equipped him with the qualities he needed to secure this placement: “Having an approachable and warm friendly atmosphere at College, with a diverse and close knit community, gave me the freedomand confidence to grow and be myself” he said, a combination of factors that helped him to gain A and B grades in A-Level Sociology, Law and History.

His Manager at Marks and Spencer said of Matthew “Matt’s passion, enthusiasm and dedication to learning and developing himself have supported him to be a really strong candidate on our Trainee Management scheme; business leadership, decision making and commercial acumen, clearly come very naturally to him and will stand him in good stead for aSuccessful future career”.

For more information visit www.bolton-sfc.ac.ukor call 01204 846215

the intro Bits www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

14

lIFe storIes

SAP PpRe

e

NTi ic

c

E sH

O

Your future now

Years’ of experience and high success rates

CA is ERl LEGl L

Advice Sessions19 May18 August25 August

New courses fromSeptember 2011

Art and design, Music,Performing Arts andMedia Production

Joinery RetailHealth and Social Care General ConstructionDental Nursing ChildcareCustomer Service HairdressingBrickwork Electrical InstallationEngineering ManagementBusiness Administration PlumbingMotor Vehicle CateringPlastering

For more information contact us on 01228 822700or visit www.carlisle.ac.uk

c college add_Layout 1 11/04/2011 12:01 Page 1

33 million vehicles of all types travelling the equivalent of 12.5 million times round the world each year.

To keep these vehicles serviced, repaired and moving, the Retail Motor Industry employs 600,000 skilled individuals throughout the UK. Each year apprentices are recruited to ensure that skilled personnel continue to join the industry.

Do you want to get paid at the same time as developing the skills required to work in the Motor Industry and also achieve nationally recognised qualifications?

If the answer is ‘Yes’ then you should apply for an apprenticeship with Remit

As the training arm of the Retail Motor Industry, Remit has Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship opportunities throughout the country in a range of skilled occupations.

Choose from Service Technician (Light or Heavy Vehicle), Motor Cycle Technician, Body Repair, Vehicle Paint, Auto Electrician, Tyre/Exhaust Fitter, Parts Consultant, Vehicle Sales, Service Advisor, and Business Administration.

You will be employed as an apprentice at a company close to your home, and Remit will plan and deliver your training through a selected College of Further Education in your area or through structured training at your workplace.

Apprentices – keeping the country moving

Tel: 0845 8399 200 Email: [email protected]

www.remit.co.ukApply now at

‘Remit is committed to promoting working environments in which everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute to the success of the business’

Pre 115_Remit A4 Advert.indd 1 16/03/2011 08:38

job opportunities are growing faster here than in any

other part of the UK

there are many rewarding

career paths for people who love

cars

MotorveHICle seCtor

and the money’s good...

so why not consider a

career working in the motor

vehicle industry?

Fast track your career with a motor

vehicle apprenticeship

Vocational training is

the best way to get into this sector


17

Careers insight

The motor vehicle sector deals with all aspects of cars, vans and motorcycles – selling them, fixing them, servicing them and even rescuing stranded drivers. There are lots of career paths on offer, from technical to customer-service based roles – it all depends on what interests you.

The good news about this sector is that vocational training is the best way to get into it. Here are the main areas within the motor vehicle sector – there are vocational routes into all of them.

Maintenance and repairOne of the most popular areas, maintenance and repair is about keeping cars roadworthy. These technicians service, fix and replace parts of all sorts of vehicles. They can work in independent garages or as part of dealerships, say working on just BMWs. Some technicians specialise in things like electrics or motorcycles.Earnings: Between £13,000 and £20,000 a year.

Body and paintBody and paint technicians fix cars that have been damaged in accidents. Body work is about fixing the insides of a car (like electrics or structure) and paint work is about sprucing up the outside of the car, like fresh paint to make everything look like new again.Earnings: Between £13,500 and £18,000 a year.

roadside assistanceWhen someone’s car breaks down on the side of the road, it’s the roadside recovery technician who comes to the rescue. They either fix the car onsite or safely tow it back to a garage. Earnings: Between £13,000 and £16,000 a year.

FittingMotor vehicle fitters repair and replace parts on cars, like tyres, batteries, brakes and exhausts while the customers wait. They can work in fast-fit centres, dealerships or alongside motor vehicle technicians. Earnings: Between £12,000 and £15,000 a year.

Parts operationsThis area is about selling car parts to the public – dealerships, motor vehicle technicians and everyday customers. It’s a customer-service based role that requires good organisation to process payments, manage inventory, advise customers, and more.Earnings: Between £9,000 and £14,500 a year.

SalesThis is about selling cars, which involves broad knowledge of cars and negotiation skills. It’s also about understanding people – sales people need to find the car that’s right for the customer, and have the confidence to seal the deal. Earnings: Between £10,000 and £15,000 a year, plus commission.

there are 32 million vehicles on the UK’s roads, and all of them need to be serviced, repaired, bought and sold. That’s where the motor vehicle industry comes in...

Motor veHICles

NORTH WEST focusThe North West is one of the big centres for the motor vehicle sector, particularly for the retail of motor vehicles; only the South East exceeds the North West in this sector. There are various different roles within the sector that you can get involved with; these include vehicle sale, roadside assistance, vehicle repair, body building, vehicle rental and parts distribution and supply. Sales, light vehicle maintenance and parts distribution and supply have the highest number of employers here.

Fast facts:• 14% of motor vehicle retail employees

are in the North West• Second biggest centre for retail of motor

vehicles • Nearly 60,000 people work in this sector

here• The most common sub-sectors are

vehicle sales, light vehicle maintenance and parts distribution and supply

• Over 8,000 workplaces in the region

Start learning!Want to find a course in Motor Vehicles in the North West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what course in your local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Careers insight

18


Get qualified!There are plenty of vocational courses for

this sector…

Young ApprenticeshipsThis vocational learning programme is open

to Year 10 and 11 students. You’ll spend

two days a week on the Apprenticeship

programme (you’ll study the National

Curriculum the rest of the week) and do 50

days of work experience in the industry.

The benefit: You’ll get an early headstart

in this sector and be able to progress to an

Apprenticeship.

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are the recommended

route into this sector. You’ll get a job with an

employer and do half your learning on the job,

and half in the classroom with a college or

training provider. There are Apprenticeships in

all the pathways mentioned at the beginning

of this article. The benefit: You’ll earn a salary while you

get a qualification and have excellent career

progression.

14-19 diploma in Engineering (with Automotive Specialist Learning) This course gives a broad overview of

engineering, design, materials, electronics

systems, maintenance and manufacturing.

There is a specialist automotive option

that covers the foundation knowledge for

the repair, servicing and maintenance of

automotive vehicles. There are units on light

vehicles (cars), heavy vehicle (lorries) and

motorcycles.The benefit: After completing the Diploma,

you could get an Apprenticeship, progress to

another course, or start working in the industry.

Useful linkswww.motor.org.uk – The Institute of the Motor Industry is the Sector Skills Council

www.remit.co.uk - National training provider specialising in motor vehicle apprenticeships

www.careersbox.co.uk - careers films on the web

caSe StUDYWorking on vehicles with like-minded people is hard to beat

Mark Lorrain Remit apprentice – Service Technician After leaving school, Mark, 20 had attended full time college courses for three years and worked in the retail industry for a year before commencing his apprenticeship at MPC Basingstoke.

Mark had achieved a National Diploma in Motor Vehicle Technology at college but the apprenticeship gave him the opportunity to learn practical skills and the chance to pick up knowledge from experienced and skilled colleagues. Mark feels this has proved more beneficial than the full time classroom delivery at college. Mark completed his Level 3 apprenticeship qualifications in November 2009 through Remit.

Mark was fortunate to find an apprenticeship at 20 – most apprentices start between the ages of 16 and 18.

At MPC, Mark is typically involved in servicing vehicles but also does most of the welding work that needs to be done in the company. He has now also become a qualified MOT tester.

Outside work, Mark has just bought his own house so most of his spare time is devoted to this.

For more information about Remit contact: [email protected] 0845 839 9200 www.remit.co.uk


19

Careers insight

JOIN THE PATH TO YOUR DREAM JOB

Southport CollegeOver 70 years of experience in vocational courses

Come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 8 June, 4.00pm – 7.00pm

Tour the College, meet our tutors and try out a course

Contact Kathryn Carr on 01704 392741 or [email protected] for more information

and to book your place at Open Evening

turn the page if you want a rewarding, important career….

there are hundreds of

different career paths, from it and admin to nursing and

physiotherapy

You could make a huge difference in someone

else’s life…and yours too

Do you want to help

people?

HeAltH & soCIAl CAre seCtor


21

Careers insight

SalariesMost people in this sector work for the NHS, where an entry-level position will earn you between £14,000 and £15,000 a year. With a level 2 or 3 qualification, you could be earning £17,000. The more experience you pick up, the more you’ll earn.

NORTH WEST focus There are around 390,000 health and social

care employees here. The health and social

care sector is the second largest employer in

the North West; it accounts for nearly 15%

of England’s health workforce. Areas of this

sector that you could work in include hospital

activities, general medical practice activities

and dentistry; the biggest employer here is

hospital activity.

Fast facts:• 13% of the North West’s workforce is in this

sector• 17% of health and social care employers here

have vacancies• Employees in this sector tend to have a higher

level of qualification than most sectors

Start learning!Want to find a course in Health & Social Care

in the North West? Then turn to page 52

to find out how to access your local 14-19

prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what

course in your local area, or you could visit


If you’ve got a big heart and want to work with people, then a career in Health and Social Care could be for you. This sector is about keeping people healthy, happy and looked after – and it takes all sorts of job roles to do this from nurses and care assistants to administrative assistants and IT specialists.

Healthcare is an essential part of our society, which means that there’ll always be jobs on offer for qualified people. In fact, this is one sector that continues to thrive during recessions.

Here are some of the main areas in the sector, along with the entry-level job position that could be your first step on the career ladder.

Allied health professionsPeople who specialise in a specific area, like speech and language therapists, radiographers, occupational therapists and psychologists.Entry-level job: Therapy clinical support worker

dentalThe dentists and dental hygienists who look after our teeth.Entry-level job: Dental nurse

Healthcare scienceThe scientific side to it all – includes pharmacists, biomedical scientists and laboratory assistants.Entry-level job: Pharmacy dispensing assistant

Health informationThe people who help process, store and analyse patient information and medical records – medical records clerk, clinical researcher, IT professionals. Entry-level job: administrative assistant

Nursing and midwiferyAssisting doctors and consultants in patient care. Entry-level job: Healthcare assistant, nursing assistant

Social careSocial care workers and personal assistants help people with disabilities maintain their independence and live fuller lives. Entry-level job: Care assistant, personal assistant

Wider healthcare teamAll the other jobs that keep the NHS running smoothly, like technicians, porters, gardeners, caterers, cleaning staff, etc. Entry-level job: Porter

It’s one of the biggest and most important sectors out there. It’s also your chance to start a rewarding, challenging career that helps people live healthy, happy lives

HeAltH &soCIAl CAre

Careers insight

22


Useful linksSkills for Health - www.skillsforhealth.org.uk

Skills for Care - www.skillsforcare.org.uk

NHS Careers – this website gives a broad overview of careers in this sector and

courses on offer - www.nhscareers.nhs.uk§

Step into the NHS - www.stepintothenhs.nhs.uk

Young Apprenticeship information - www.yahealthandsocialcare.org.uk/ya-potential-ya

Website on careers in social care - www.socialcarecareers.co.uk


Get into the sector!There are lots of pathways to a career in this sector –

relevant work experience is one of them…

VolunteeringThere are lots of volunteering opportunities in Health

and Social Care, and this type of experience could

qualify you for a fulltime position or boost your

application for a course. Visit www.volunteering.org.uk or www.do-it.org.uk to

search for opportunities near you.

Work experienceThe NHS trusts in your area will be able to arrange

work experience placements. Simply ring them up

and ask to speak to someone in their HR, voluntary

services or education and training departments.

Get qualified!Young ApprenticeshipsIf you’re in Year 10 or 11, you could find out what it’s like working in Health, Social Care or Early Years with this two-year vocational learning programme. You’ll do 50 days of work experience along with your usual National Curriculum studies. The benefit: You’ll get real work experience and a recognised vocationally related qualification.

ApprenticeshipsIf you’re aged 16 or over, you could take an Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care and get a job with an employer. You’ll do half your learning on the job and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. This Apprenticeship covers careers in all of the main areas listed above.The benefit: You’ll earn a salary while gaining a qualification and learning on the job.

diploma in Society, Health & developmentIf you think you might be interested in this sector but want to learn more, this Diploma can give you a broad view into the many different careers within healthcare. You’ll gain work experience, do a special project and start developing the skills that health sector employers look for!The benefit: You’ll get a good introduction to the sector and the foundation to get a job or carry on with further education.

caSe StUDYA healthy example

Laura Richardson, a former pupil of Range High in Formby came to Southport College to study towards a Level 3 qualification in Society, Health and Development.

This course looks at four sectors: health, social care, young children and community justice. It provides students with an insight into the many rewarding careers in these areas. They learn about the many professions and how the services work together.

The Health & Social Care department at Southport College has realistic facilities including rooms that simulate hospital bays, rooms in a care home and a nursery. Our students benefit from the knowledge of guest speakers who come in to talk about their experiences. They also go on visits to children’s centres, courts and hospitals to learn about the environments where they will be able to put their skills to use.

Laura says, “I’d recommend the Society, Health and Development course because it’s so varied. You can tailor it to suit your interests. There are loads of work placements that give you an insight into different jobs which is useful if you haven’t completely decided on a career. I’ve enjoyed the visits and meeting the guest speakers.”

Laura successfully completed her course and went on to the University of Central Lancashire in Preston to study a Midwifery degree.

Please contact Kathryn Carr on 01704 392741 or [email protected] to organise a taster day or tour of our campus


23

Careers insight

Myfuture

If you’re leaving school or college this year and aren’t sure ofthe next step – take a look at the full-time courses, degrees andwork based apprenticeships available at Myerscough College.There’s a great choice of subjects, excellent teaching andamazing facilities! Plus superb regional transport links andgreat on-site accommodation for 750 students.

Agriculture - Animal Studies - Arboriculture - Cricket - Ecology andConservation - Equine Studies - Farriery - Fishing Studies - Floral Design - Football Coaching - Garden Design - Golf Coaching - Horticulture - Landscape - Mechanisation - Motorsports - Photography - Rugby - Sports Studies - Sportsturf - Veterinary Nursing - Dedicated Access Courses

To receive a prospectus call 01995 642211or visit www.myersco ugh.ac.ukMystudiesMysuccessMyrewardsMyfutureMyambitionMycourseMyerscough

MORNINGSEVERY MONTH • CHECK WEBSITE FOR DATES

Myerscough College, Bilsborrow, Preston, Lancashire. PR3 0RY

My Future 210x297 Open Doors 30451_Layout 1 05/04/2011 14:13 Page 1

So, why spend your life tied

to a desk? turn the page to

start growing your potential…

You’ll earn £100 more a week in

this sector than you would in the retail, hotel or restaurant

industries

You could protect wildlife,

manage the home turf of your football

club or care for animals

Want to spend your

career outside?

envIronMentAl & lAnD-BAseD seCtor

the landscaping

industry alone contributes 3

billion pounds to the UK economy!


25

Careers insight

NORTH WEST focusAround 87,000 people are employed in this sector here. If you don’t like the idea of working for someone else then perhaps this is the industry for you; over half of the workforce here are self-employed. There are a number of areas within this sector that you could work in, including floristry, landscaping, animal care and environmental conservation. The sub-sector with the most employees here is agricultural crops and livestock.

Fast facts• There are around 18,000 environmental

and land based businesses in the North West

• 81% of employees work full time• The North West has a bigger

concentration of skilled trades in this sector than the country as a whole

Start learning!Want to find a course in Environmental and Land Based in the North West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what course in your local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Not everyone has to spend their career tied to a desk – in this sector, you could be one of the lucky people who gets to work outside. It’s an exciting time to join this sector. Britain is trying to produce more of its own food, fight climate change, and find greener fuel alternatives. There are lots of opportunities to make a difference to the planet, and future generations.

So what can you do? Loads! This sector covers farming; protecting the environment; landscaping; growing flowers; caring for animals and wildlife; maintaining the turf on pitches and much, much more.

Here are some of the main sub-sectors:

Horticulture & landscapingThis is about creating and looking after designed landscapes in cities and the countryside. It covers work like maintaining sports turf, gardens, parks, golf courses and even business grounds. Earnings: From £12,000 to £20,000 a year.

AgricultureAs the UK strives to increase its own food production, opportunity is growing in this area. Agriculture covers work in farms, dairies and ‘agribusinesses’ or companies that supply the industry with things like animal feed, fertilisers and farm machinery. Earnings: From £12,000 to £17,000 a year.

Animal careFrom running a cattery to training horses, this career is for the animal lovers. Animal care is about handling, supervising and caring for animals, from small domestic pets to wildlife. Includes work with breeders, pet shops, groomers, animal welfare charities and zoos. Earnings: From £11,000 to £13,000 a year for animal care. £14,000 to £22,000 for veterinary nurses.

Environmental conservationThis area is for people who are passionate about environmental issues. It’s not just about saving the planet – conservation is about coming up with solutions that will lead to a more sustainable, healthy environment. Earnings: From £15,000 to £20,000 a year.

Land-based engineeringThese are the people who design, manufacture and maintain agricultural equipment, like combine harvesters and tractors. Working for dealerships and manufacturers, these engineers use technical knowledge to solve problems for the agricultural industry. Earnings: From £20,000 to £26,000 a year.

From agriculture and animal care to conservation and horticulture, there are many paths towards a rewarding career in this sector…

envIronMentAl& lAnD-BAseD

Careers insight

26


Useful linkswww.land-force.com - jobsite for land-based careers

www.lantra.co.uk - the Sector Skills Council for the industry

www.lantracoursefinder.co.uk - helps you find a course in your area

www.growcareers.info - careers in horticulture for young people


Get qualified!There are plenty of vocational courses for

this sector…

Young ApprenticeshipsThis vocational learning programme is open

to Year 10 and 11 students. You’ll spend

two days a week on the Apprenticeship

programme (you’ll study the National

Curriculum the rest of the week) and do 50

days of work experience in the industry.

The benefit: You’ll get an early headstart

in this sector and be able to progress to an

Apprenticeship.

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are the recommended

route into this sector. You’ll get a job with

an employer and do half your learning

on the job, and half in the classroom

with a college or training provider. There

are Apprenticeships in agriculture,

horticulture, land-based engineering,

environmental conservation, floristry,

animal care, trees & timber and more.

The benefit: You’ll earn a salary while you

get a qualification and have excellent career

progression.

14-19 diploma in Environmental and Land-based StudiesIf you want to explore this sector without

taking the plunge into a job right away,

this Diploma could be the way forward.

The course gives you the knowledge that

can be applied to a career in this sector.

You might learn about conservation, water

management, how we use land for the

production of food and natural resources.

The benefit: After completing the

Diploma, you could get an Apprenticeship,

progress to another course, or start

working in the industry.

caSe StUDYAndrea is loving the challenge

Andrea Shuttleworth is following in her father’s footsteps to train as one of an elite band of women in Britain, who are forging a career in landbased Mechanisation. She is currently studying on the Foundation Degree in Machinery Management and Logistics after progressing from the two year Extended Diploma course.

She said: “I’ve been brought up outside, so working within this industry is perfect for me. I love the challenge of maintaining, mending and modifying complex machinery and can’t wait to further my knowledge.

“The College’s first rate industry contacts have helped me qualify as a tractor and heavy plant mechanic. I’m the only girl in my class but I just get on with my studies and the boys treat me like one of the lads and as an equal.”

Andrea eventually hopes to set up her own business servicing and diagnosing land based machinery, although she has not yet ruled out working for a large company like JCB. Either way, she will continue to take it all in her stride!

For more information contact Myerscough College, Bilsborrow, Preston, PR3 0RY. Tel: 01995 642222www.myerscough.ac.uk


27

Careers insight

• A Levels • Apprenticeships • Building Services • Business & Accountancy • Childcare • Creative Arts & Media • Engineering & Electrical

Electronics • Entry Level & ESOL• Gas, Plumbing & Electrical

• Hair, Beauty & Holistics • Health & Social Care• Hospitality • IT & Computing • Motor Vehicle • Music • Science • Sport • Tourism & Aviation

£25 MILLION

NEW

APPLYNOW!

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INNOVATIVETEACHING &LEARNING

COURSES fOR 16-19 YEAR OLDS AVAILABLE

SPECIALIST

0161 886 7070 www.trafford.ac.uk

• A Levels • Apprenticeships • Building Services • Business & Accountancy • Childcare • Creative Arts & Media • Engineering & Electrical

Electronics • Entry Level & ESOL• Gas, Plumbing & Electrical

• Hair, Beauty & Holistics • Health & Social Care• Hospitality • IT & Computing • Motor Vehicle • Music • Science • Sport • Tourism & Aviation

£25 MILLION

NEW

APPLYNOW!

* Altrincham site

APPRENTICESHIP VACANCIES NOW AVAILABLE!

A LEVELCENTREBUILD*

INNOVATIVETEACHING &LEARNING

COURSES fOR 16-19 YEAR OLDS AVAILABLE

SPECIALIST

0161 886 7070 www.trafford.ac.uk

our regional sector is growing

three times faster than

anywhere else in the UK

It & teleCoMsseCtor

join one of the fastest moving

industries out there!

computer skills will get you ahead in

most careers

it professionals will always

be in demand

it & telecoms is

at the heart of every other

sector


29

Careers insight

IT & Telecomms are a major part of life – it helps us keep in touch with our friends, stay entertained, conduct business and more. This sector is all about digital technologies and it’s a fast moving area with excellent prospects, whether you’ve got a technical brain or a way with people.

This sector can be broken down into two main areas:

From mobile phones and satellite TV to broadband and fibre optics, it & telecoms is for anyone who wants to work with cutting-edge technology

It & teleCoMs

itAs you can imagine, almost every organisation and business out there uses computers as part of their daily operations. In the UK, 21 million people use IT at work every day! From hospitals and power stations to charities and banks, IT is found in all parts of life. The IT industry is all about computers and information systems – designing them, developing them, making them, selling them and installing them.

Skilled IT professionals are always in demand. There’s a wide range of career paths on offer and many of them are technical – however, lots of IT jobs involve working with other people in a team.

Here are some of the careers in IT:

IT trainer – these people make courses to teach clients how to use computers and different applications. They train people of all abilities and backgrounds. Salary: starting around £18,000.

Web designer – these designers use a mixture of technical and creative skills to build websites that look good, function well and are user-friendly. Salary: starting between £16,000 and £20,000.

Software developer – these people design computer programmes and applications that help businesses work more effectively, such as bookkeeping software. Salary: starting between £20,000 and £26,000.

Helpdesk assistant – offering support to IT users with technical difficulties.Salary: starting between £14,000 and £17,000.

telecomsTelecoms is a broad term for any technology that transmits information, like phone lines, broadband, TV, mobile phones and satellites. This industry includes internet suppliers, mobile phone companies and the big companies like BT and SKY who offer a wide range of services (phone + broadband + satellite TV) in one package.

It’s a growing sector with lots of different career paths. You could be installing fibre optic broadband cables, selling contracts in a call centre or assisting customers in a mobile phone shop. Apprenticeships are a recognised way of progressing through this industry.

Telecoms technician – the people who install, test and repair telecommunication systems like telephone and broadband cabling.Salary: starting between £12,000 and £15,000. Customer service – the people who assist contract holders and users with any enquires, from billing to technical problems. Salary: starting between £14,000 and £16,000.

NOrTH WEST focus The IT and telecoms sector isn’t just a sector on its own, IT is used in most job roles in some way. It is beneficial to have IT skills as they are required for a lot of different jobs in various sectors. The good news is that the number of employees in this sector is expected to grow by 7 times the region’s average, with an estimated 49,000 IT professionals needed in the next 5 years.

Fast facts• 1 in 20 North West employees work in this sector• Over 2 million North West workers use IT in their everyday job• 92% of job vacancies require candidates with IT user skillsStart learning!Want to find a course in IT & Telecoms in the North West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what course in your local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Careers insight

30


Useful linkswww.e-skills.com - the Sector Skills Council for this industry

www.microsoft.com/uk - Microsoft UK

www.comptia.org - Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)


Get qualified!Many IT specialists are graduates, however you can work your way up through vocational courses.

GCSEsYou have to take ICT until the end of Year 11, but you can also study for a Single or Double Award GCSE in ICT and Applied ICT. It’s also offered as a GCSE examination.

ApprenticeshipsIf you’re aged 16 or over, you could take an Apprenticeship in IT Services & Development, Telecoms, or IT User. You’ll do half your learning on the job and half in the classroom with a college or training provider, picking up qualifications along the way.The benefit: You’ll earn a salary while gaining a qualification and learning on the job.

14-19 diploma in itIf you think you might be interested in this sector but want to learn more, this Diploma can give you a broad view into the many different careers within IT. You’ll gain work experience, do a special project and start developing the skills that employers look for!The benefit: You’ll get a good introduction to the sector and the foundation to get a job or carry on with further education.

caSe StUDYMatthew Griffiths Information Technology PractitionersBTEC Advanced Diploma

Training for a career in IT seemed an obvious choice for Matthew as he had always had an interest in this sector.

“The IT industry is huge and I did not know what area to specialise in. The College gave me a real insight into what the IT world had to offer and available careers.

I have now progressed on to the Information Technology Practitioners course and am specialising in software development. Throughout my time at the College the staff have been fantastic and have really helped me when considering my options. College has proven to be an invaluable experience.”

Please call the College hotline on: 01244 670600 or visit www.west-cheshire.ac.uk for more information


31

Careers insight

Burnley College apprentices are highly successful and many have won national awards for their outstanding achievements. Our pass rates are consistently high across all our programmes.Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships are available in:

My Apprenticeship allows me to meet people from different organisations who are working in similar roles to myself and improve my own skills by learning from their experiences of administration and customer service.Kirstie SimpsonApprenticeship in Business and AdministrationPrevious School: Habergham High School

”

”

“Burnley College is Outstanding”

• Brickwork

• Business and Administration

• Carpentry, Joinery, Wood Occupations and Fitted Interiors (Kitchen Fitting)

• Children’s Care, Learning and Development

• Customer Service

• Electrical Installation

• Engineering

• Furniture Production (Assembled) and Upholstery

• Health and Social Care

• Information Technology

• Painting and Decorating

• Plastering

• Plumbing

• Sport and Leisure

• Supporting Teaching and Learning.

We currently have a number of vacancies for Apprenticeships with a variety of local employers.

For more information visit www.burnley.ac.uk/apprenticeshipvacancies

help drive business and the economy

forwardMoney

makes the world go round!

consider a career “in the

money”…

Some of the biggest

salaries going

high-flying careers

BUsIness &FInAnCe seCtor


33

Careers insight

NORTH WEST focusIf you want to work in the business and finance

sector, there are a lot of job role options; jobs

in this sector include accountants, wage clerks

and bookkeepers, it also covers all employees

who work in customer service in banks and

building societies. The North West houses

plenty of call centres for financial businesses

including big names Barclays, Santander and

Co-operative Bank.

Fast facts• 9% of the UK’s finance employees are in the

North West• The vast majority of jobs in this sector are

full-time• Over 100,000 people are employed in the

financial sector in our region

Start learning!Want to find a course in Business & Finance in

the North West? Then turn to page 52 to find

out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus.

It will tell you who’s offering what course in your

local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Put simply, the business and finance sector is about money – saving it, borrowing it, managing it and most of all, making lots more of it. It’s the UK’s most global industry and covers a wide range of services and products that everyone uses like bank accounts, mortgages, pensions, credit cards and insurance. The perk of working with money is that salaries tend to be higher than average.

Here are some of the main areas within the sector:

AccountancyAccountants keep track of companies and individuals’ finances so they can manage their money properly. Depending on their client’s needs, they might produce account reports, forecast future profits, calculate tax or audit accounts. All organisations – from football clubs to supermarkets – need accountants, so they can work in many different sectors. Entry-level role: accounts clerk, trainee accountant.Starting salary: £14,000 - £17,000.

BankingThe world would screech to a halt without banks. We need them to manage our money, give loans, exchange money and more. There are three types: retail banking (like your local HSBC or Lloyds), Corporate banking (banking services for businesses) and wholesale banking (large transactions for big clients like governments and other international banks). Entry-level role: customer service adviser, bank cashier.Starting salary: £10,500 - £16,000 a year.

Financial adviceIt’s not just for the wealthy – everybody needs financial advice at some point. Financial advisers helps people make the most out of their money, whatever they have. A career in financial advice is about working with people to plan their financial goals, whether that’s choosing a mortgage, investing their savings or planning for their retirement.Entry-level role: insurance technician, customer service adviser in a bank or building society.Starting salary: around £17,000.

Money makes the world go round in this suited and booted sector. If you have ambition and a head for numbers, you could set out for a very rewarding career in the financial capital of the world!

BUsIness &FInAnCe

Careers insight

34


Useful linkswww.fssc.org.uk – Financial Services Skills Council

www.icaew.com/careers - ICAEW

www.accaglobal.com - ACCA


Get qualified!While many people in this sector have university

degrees, you can get into the industry with

vocational courses and progress on the job.

Young Apprenticeship If you’re in Year 10 or 11, you could experience

workplace life in business and finance with this

two-year vocational learning programme. You’ll

spend two days a week on the programme and

the rest in school as usual. This is a great way

to build a strong foundation before moving on to

an Apprenticeship at 16.The benefits: You’ll get a level 2 vocational

qualification, work experience and the skills that

employers are looking for.

14-19 diploma in Business, Administration and FinanceThis qualification gives you the chance to develop

the skills and knowledge needed to succeed

in business, or to progress onto further/higher

education. The course gives you a look into the

many different careers within the sector.

The benefits: You’ll learn more about the

industry and become qualified to get a job or

move on to further education.

ApprenticeshipsThere are several Apprenticeships that will get

you qualified in this sector. The Business &

Administration Apprenticeship covers all the

skills needed to start a career in the office.

On the finance side of things, there are a few

options: Payroll, Accounting and Providing

Financial Services. The benefits: You’ll earn a salary while picking

up the right qualifications for the job.

A-level traineeshipsYou don’t have to go to university to train to be

an accountant. Organisations like the ICAEW

offer a training scheme for people who have

completed their A-levels. You’ll start working

for an employer and gain two professional

qualifications in four years. For more information,

visit www.icaew.com/careers.The benefits: By the time your friends are

finished university, you’ll be qualified and able to

command a good salary.

caSe StUDYA Bright Start for Kavita Vadher

‘I am an associate within Audit for Deloitte. I started enquires into joining Deloitte when I was doing my GCSE’s as I was intrigued by the different schemes they offered all ages and levels. Joining straight after my A levels at the age of 19, gave me a head start to those starting university in the same year. It meant I could gain the worldwide recognised accounting qualifications without having to pay huge fees, which sounds like the right decision considering the recent increase in tuition fees. I am gaining invaluable experience working alongside professionals in the real world which puts me at an advantage to new graduates. The Deloitte BrightStart scheme is helping me to achieve my long term career goals - somewhere to study, work and earn money without getting into the piles of University debt- wise decision taking into account the current economic climate. Working for one of the top companies in the UK is beyond what I had imagined for myself especially at such a young age.

At Deloitte, my role involves assisting colleagues where possible, for example casting draft financial statements, performing testing of the audit, writing up summaries of meeting minutes, writing e-mails, making phone calls to banks to chase up direct confirmations. These are just a few of the tasks that I have learnt in the short time here at Deloitte. Some roles are trickier than others and some are very straightforward, but it’s great to know that the work that you’re doing actually counts towards something, and forms part of the final audit and there is a great support network at Deloitte so you never struggle alone!’

Full details on how to apply to the Bright Start scheme are available at www.deloitte.co.uk/graduates/brightstart.


35

Careers insight

It’s about people reaching their potentialThroughout his childhood and late teens, Paul had a difficult upbringing. He used to find refuge at his Nan’s and enjoyed helping her with the cooking – especially a hearty ham hock soup. Little did he know where it would take him! When he reached 20, things changed: he had a daughter and wanted to cook healthy, nutritious food for her. So he applied for our Professional Cookery Programme.

During his training, he started to work at the Palace Hotel in Manchester where he learnt how to further his cooking talent and worked with highly experienced chefs. This was the highlight of his time at the academy and at the end of his course, the hotel offered him a full time job!

Paul describes being on the course as ‘a life-changing opportunity’ and ‘a real achievement’. He is now one of the Academy’s Ambassadors.

With almost 1 million vacancies to fill over the next few years, the hospitality industry is an exciting choice for many young people.

If you want to have a career as a professional chef or in customer service, we offer the perfect balance between classroom training and work experience.

You can get an Intermediate Apprenticeship in Customer Service or an Intermediate Apprenticeship in Hospitality & Catering Principles - Professional Cookery and work placement at the De Vere venues and hotels or at other well known establishments in the region.

Contact our Talent Finder North-West, Louise Dear on: [email protected] | www.devereacademy.co.uk Our locations: Liverpool, Crewe, Stockport, Milton Keynes, LondonRecruitment Days in June and July.

Text Academy to

84840 for the recruitment days

When we are recruiting, we don’t judge you on your past – the only thing we want to see in you is POTENTIAL! If you have that spark, want to put the effort into the course and keep your promises, our commitment is to change your life and to offer you an excellent start. We are giving you a massive opportunity.Kellie Rixon, Managing Director.

It is a fast track to your future employment in less than 16 weeks!

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

open-doors03.pdf 1 13/04/2011 09:35

IMAGIne A CAreer...

assembling cars

Developing websites

investing people’s money

restoring houses to their former glory

caring for

animals

Working behind the scenes in

tV

leading outdoor

expeditions

Making a difference in people’s

life

cooking five-star meals

Saving the

planetorganising holidays

Fitting shop fronts


37

Careers insight

YoUr CAreer, YoUr CHoICeWondering what else is out there? take a look at some of the other sectors in the North West

Armed ForcesBritain’s armed forces – the Army, Royal Navy, RAF and MoD – all invest a lot in their personnel to give them an education that’s relevant in the civilian world as well as in the services. They all offer Apprenticeships so recruits can earn nationally recognised trade qualifications alongside their regular training. For example, a cook for the Royal Navy could also complete a chef Apprenticeship. Each organisation offers different schemes, so visit their websites for more details.

Salary: starting around £13,400 the first year, with excellent benefits and progression.Qualifications: the armed forces offer Apprenticeships in many areas, including Engineering, Fitting, Maintenance, Cookery, IT, Admin, Marine Engineering and more.

Creative, digital & MediaThis sector covers a range of exciting and creative careers in TV, film, graphics, publishing and journalism. Production assistants help out on television and film sets; graphic designers create adverts and billboards; journalists write news stories; publishers print books and magazines; and photographers shoot and edit images. If you thrive on a creative buzz, there’s no better industry to be in. Competition for jobs is high so work experience is highly recommended.

Jobs: graphic designer, web designer, production assistant, editing assistant, photographer assistant.Salary: starting between £13,000 and £17,000.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Creative Apprenticeships, Diploma in Creative and Media.

Customer Service & AdminAny business that wants to be successful has to make its customers happy. From helping a shopper find the right size at Topshop to answering customer queries at a BT call centre, customer service jobs come in all shapes and sizes. Another thing businesses can’t function without is effective admin. Administrators are responsible for running the daily operations of the office. They answer the phone, input data, type up letters and anything else that needs to be done. Since administration and customer service are needed in most organisations, you could work across many different sectors.

Job roles: admin assistant, office junior, personal assistant, customer service representative. Salary: starting anywhere between £13,000 and £18,000 a year.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship in Business & Administration, Diploma in Business, Administration and Finance, Apprenticeships.

Energy & RenewableThis essential sector deals with the utilities we rely on: water, electricity and gas. It also covers waste management and alternative sources of power like nuclear energy, wind power and solar energy. Careers in this sector cover the distribution and supply of gas; the generation and transmission of electricity; the collection and purification of water; the treatment of sewage; and nuclear fuel processing. Apprenticeships are a recognised route into this industry and offer excellent career progression.

Job roles: gas network engineer, gas service technician, wastewater plant worker, process operator, decommissioning operative.Salary: starting anywhere between £12,000 and £20,000 a year.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeships in the Utilities Sector, Apprenticeships.

Careers insight

38


EngineeringAt the heart of every technological advance is an engineer. Chemical engineers create drugs to treat diseases; civil engineers design our railways and roads; and aerospace engineers design aircraft. Engineers use problem solving and and imagination to come up with answers to problems. The main challenge is doing more with less and figuring out how to make something more cheaply, quickly and effectively than ever before. Engineering is one of the most varied sectors out there, with specialist areas like Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Marine and Defence.

Job roles: maintenance fitter, welder, mechanical engineering technician.Salary: starting anywhere between £15,000 and £18,000 a year.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Apprenticeships, Diploma in Engineering.

Food & drinkFood and drink is one of the largest industries in the UK – in fact, it even helped pull the country out of the recession. This sector is about taking what’s grown by farmers and transforming it into our favourite foods and beverages. It takes a lot of people working together to make this happen, which means loads of career paths on offer. You could be processing ingredients, fixing machines on the production floor, processing meat, baking cakes or testing quality.

Job roles: production operative, bottling operative, baker, warehouse worker.Salary: starting between £11,000 and £17,000 a year. Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Food Manufacture Apprenticeship, Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design.

Hair & BeautyThis industry is all about helping people look good and feel even better about themselves. It’s a booming sector that makes billions each year. There are many different paths within this sector – hairdressing, nail services, beauty therapy, spa therapy – and all of them require common skills: creativity, the ability to work on your feet for long hours, good hand-eye co-ordination and up-to-date knowledge of what’s in (and what’s out).

Job roles: hairdresser, spa therapist, beauty therapist, aromatherapist Salary: starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Diploma in Hair & Beauty, Apprenticeships.

ManufacturingFrom the cars on the motorway to the clothes in your wardrobe, many of the things we rely on have been manufactured. This sector is all about making things on a massive scale: cars, TVs, clothes, aeroplanes, fuel…it’s a very important industry. There are many career paths in the sector, from operating machinery that makes plastics or testing the quality of finished engine parts.

Job roles: production and process engineers, technicians, maintenance engineers, welders and machine setters.Salary: starting between £13,000 and £18,000 a year.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Manufacturing Apprenticeship, Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design.

Public ServicesIn this sector, your work could help other people and improve your local community. Public services are an essential part of our society – education, housing, the police, and the fire service are all services that the government provides for its citizens (that’s you and us). In this sector, you could help organise a community arts programme, work for a housing association or support a teacher in the classroom. Your local council is a large employer in this sector. Contact them directly for job vacancies.

Job roles: classroom assistant, nursery nurse, admin assistant, youth support worker.Salary: starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year.Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Apprenticeships, Diploma in Public Services.


39

Careers insight

Imagine a job where every day is different!

An apprenticeship in the hospitality and catering industry could be the start of your exciting new career

Excellent career prospects with opportunities for promotion and worldwide travel!

Get training and qualifications whilst earning a wage, without going to college!

contact HIT Training freephone :0800 093 5892 visit us on Facebook by searching HIT Trainingor visit: www.hittraining.co.uk

Start LearningWant to find a course in one of these sectors? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what in your local area.

retailRetail is about the sale of products and services to consumers (that’s people like you). It covers high street shops, supermarkets, independent shops, large national chains and more. It’s also one of the most fun and young industries out there, with more than one third of the workforce under 25 years old. Whether your strengths are creativity or organisation, there’s a role for you in Retail. The main areas in the sector are:

Store operations: assisting customers on the shop floor.Buying: buying products to sell in the shop from designers and wholesalers. Visual merchandising: creating visual window and store displays. Management: overseeing the operations of the entire shop.

Job roles: sales assistant, visual merchandiser, team leader, buyer.Salary: starting between £12,000 and £18,000 a year. Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Apprenticeships, Diploma in Retail Business, Employer sponsored traineeships.

Sport & FitnessMany people think the only way you can get a career in sport is to become a professional athlete or a PE teacher – but this couldn’t be further from the truth. This sector is about promoting health and fitness. For example, exercise and fitness instructors work for gyms and leisure centres and help people stay fit and healthy. Sports coaches teach skills and techniques at all levels, from beginner to professional. Outdoor activity instructors help people enjoy themselves in the great outdoors and operations managers make sure gyms and leisure centres run smoothly.

Job roles: personal trainer, fitness instructor, swimming coach, leisure centre assistant, playworker.Salary: starting around £12,000 and can rise to £25,000 with experience and qualifications. Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship in Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching; Diploma in Sport and Active Leisure; Apprenticeships.

transport & LogisticsThis sector deals with all sorts of vehicle and their different purposes – the cars and motorcycles we drive, the lorries that transport goods, the trains and buses that travel across the country, even the aeroplanes that arrive and depart from our airports. All of these vehicles require skilled mechanics to keep them running, drivers to operate them safely, and organised people behind the scenes keeping everything to schedule. Many jobs involve manual and mechanical skills, however many roles deal with the public, so people skills are important too.

Jobs: Vehicle technician, bodywork repairer, rail engineering technician, lorry driver, baggage handler. Salary: starting between £12,000 and £17,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships.

travel & HospitalityThis sector helps people enjoy themselves during their free time and holidays. People working in this industry arrange our holidays, cook for us in restaurants, serve drinks at the bar, pamper us in salons, and more. It’s a buzzing, exciting sector with many opportunities to work in the UK and abroad. You could be a chef, a spa therapist or even a member of air cabin crew! While working hours often take place when other people are enjoying themselves (evenings and weekends), many prefer escaping the typical 9-5 lifestyle.

Jobs: hairdresser, travel agent, waiter, trainee chef, air cabin crewmember.Salary: starting between £11,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Young Apprenticeship, Apprenticeships, Diploma in Travel and Tourism.


41

Careers insight

The Take Off In Aerospace campaign shows you the exciting and challenging opportunities a career in aerospace can offer... If the wish list for your ideal job includes above average pay, excellent training opportunities and global travel; a career in aerospace could be for you! Check out our website for video case studies, day in the life profiles, careers information and where to find your local aerospace companies.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

www.makeit.org.uk/aerospace

THE AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE FOR AN APPRENTICE IS £170

the hub of UK’s biggest

manufacturing industry

home to the country’s largest

national park

has produced

some of the biggest bands

in the world!

opportunities to work for brands like jaguar, Sony and adidas

home to 6.9 Million

people

spotlIGHt ontHe nortH west


43

Useful Stuff

take a look at some of the major opportunities in the North West

YoUr reGIon

Cumbria

Lancashire

Greater Manchester

Cheshire

Merseyside

CheshireCheshire isn’t just home to Manchester United’s footballers and their wives; it is home to a number of large employers in a number of sectors. Cheshire also offers plenty of careers with international leaders in the food and drink industry, particularly packaging; Quinn Glass is a packaging technology leader based in Cheshire. There is even room for a few creatives too; McCann Erickson is one of the highest ranking advertising agencies in the world, and they have an office in Prestbury.

Key City: Chester Chester is a strong financial centre for the country; this sector employs over 12% of Chester’s population. Not surprising when Chester houses Bank of America, HBOS and Marks and Spencer Financial Services.

Key Sectors: Financial, Food and DrinkKey Employers: Bank of America, HBOS, Marks and Spencer, Airbus UK14-19 prospectuses: www.wayahead-cheshireeast.co.uk, www.wayahead-cheshireeast.co.uk, www.wayahead-warrington.co.uk

CumbriaKnown for its beautiful Lake District, Cumbria is a hive of

tourist activity. In fact, 1 in 4 jobs here are linked to tourism.

There are perks to working in this industry too; many

career opportunities could offer discounted hotels, tourist

attractions and leisure clubs. Imagine a live-in job in this

sector, no flat-hunting or travel costs to worry about!

Tourism isn’t the only cultural industry that plays a large

part here, creative industries, sport and leisure, and

heritage together provide over 15% of employment in the

whole of Cumbria.

Key city: CarlisleCarlisle, Cumbria’s only city provides plenty of jobs in the

service sector. Private firms in the service sector, including

hotels and restaurants for example, combined with public

sector services, council run services for example, account

for nearly three quarters of the employment here.

Key places: Carlisle, Barrow-in-Furness, Penrith and Kendal

Key sectors: Leisure and Tourism, Public and Private

Service, Food and Drink, NuclearKey Employers: Nestle, Center Parcs, Kimberley Clark,

The Stobart Group14-19 prospectus: www.cumbria.futures4me.co.uk

WELCOME TO The NORTH WEST

Useful Stuff

44


LancashireLancashire not only boasts a healthy tourism industry but has opportunities in load of sectors.

Lancashire is home to a world class aerospace and advanced manufacturing industry, with an

estimated 19,500 employees. This contributes nearly a quarter of the manufacturing jobs in the county,

that’s also 3.2% of all the jobs in Lancashire. International businesses like Rolls Royce Jet Engines and

BAE Systems make use of Lancashire’s outstanding facilities.

Higher education opportunities have a strong presence in this region, with a top 6 university, specialist

facilities like Infolab 21 and the Lancaster Environment Centre and one of the UK’s two world-class

business and management schools.

Key city: Blackpool

Blackpool, the UK’s most popular seaside town, is another of the UK’s big tourist destinations that is

found in the North West, providing opportunities in the leisure and tourism sector. Lancashire is also

home to several other tourist destinations such as Lancaster, Morecambe, Lytham St Annes and

Fleetwood. Both Blackpool and Morecambe are investing more money into tourism, which means even

more opportunities for local businesses and careers in this sector.

Key Places: Lancaster, Preston, Blackburn and Blackpool

Key Sectors: Business & Finance; Creative, Media & ICT; Engineering & Manufacturing; Food & Drink

Manufacturing; Leisure & Tourism

Key Employers: Rolls Royce, BAE Systems, James Hall & Co

14-19 prospectus: www.steps4me.co.uk

MerseysideMerseyside, particularly its main attraction

– Liverpool – is a rapidly growing centre

for a number of industries. Biomedical

manufacturing has a strong base here; the

National Biomanufacturing Centre, a leading

biopharmaceutical design centre is in Liverpool.

The financial and professional sector has

also undergone a lot of growth in this region,

particularly after investment by JP Morgan Invest

and Maersk.

Nearly one in three workers in Merseyside are

employed in public administration, education and

health, and over 60,000 people are employed by

the councils of Merseyside; all in all there is a huge

mix of career opportunities.

Key City: Liverpool

Liverpool is also a popular location for computer

game designers and manufacturers; Sony

Computer Entertainment has its main European

creative studio in Liverpool, providing plenty of

exciting job opportunities in the creative industry.

Key Sectors: Biomedical, Financial and Creative

Key Employers: Sony, Nichols PLC, Bridgewater

Paper Co Ltd, Barclays, HMRC

14-19 prospectus: www.i-chooseliverpool.org.uk

Greater ManchesterA world renowned city for its musical exports Manchester is also home to one of the biggest shopping centres in the country, The Trafford Centre, providing 8000 retail sector jobs in one building alone! Manchester city centre also provides the UK’s largest city centre shopping mall. An entire ‘Media City’ is being developed in Salford Quays. Among this bustling creative and media industry hub will be the home of five departments of the BBC, as well as work space for more than 1000 creative businesses. It will create around 1500 jobs. At the moment Manchester is responsible for 16% of the entire of the UK’s media output.

Manchester’s biomedical community is also thriving for both manufacturing and clinical research companies. It’s also the biggest commercial finance centre outside of London; it houses massive financial institutions such as Bank of New York Mellon and Handelsbanken. Key Sectors: Media, Digital and Creative, Biomedical, Financial and Retail. Key Employers: PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Kelloggs, Arcadia Group, BBC, ITV Granada, Adidas14-19 prospectus: www.manchester14-19.co.uk


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Useful Stuff

• Accounting (AAT) • Beauty Therapy• Bricklaying• Business Administration• Carpentry & Joinery• Catering & Hospitality• Childcare• Civil Engineering• Cleaning• Construction• Customer Service• Electrical Installation• Engineering• Fashion and Textiles• Gym Instruction• Hairdressing/Barbering

• Healthcare• Information Technology Qualification (ITQ)• Management• Motor Vehicle• Nail Services• Painting & Decorating• Performing Engineering Operation• Plastering• Plumbing• Retail• Sales• Sport• Spa Therapy• Teaching Assistants• Warehousing & Storage

Currently on offer

Apprenticeshipsare a great way to set you apart from the rest.Employers are more likely to employ people who have the right skills and experience todo the job. An Apprenticeship will give you real work experience while you study for aqualification part-time, and you are paid a wage. Wigan & Leigh College work with employers to offer a wide range of training programmes:

To find out more about how you can apply forone of our Apprenticeship programmes visit

www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk or call 01942 761111

You can also search for job vacancies in your area at

www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Apprenticeships• Accounting (AAT) • Beauty Therapy• Bricklaying• Business Administration• Carpentry & Joinery• Catering & Hospitality• Childcare• Civil Engineering• Cleaning• Construction• Customer Service• Electrical Installation• Engineering• Fashion and Textiles• Gym Instruction• Hairdressing/Barbering


Currently on offer






Apprenticeships

digital industries employ approximately 64,000 people in the region

the region’s aerospace industry supplies 60,000 jobs

There are 300 nuclear related businesses across

the region, employing 25,000 people

there are plenty of graduate vacancies in the North West; over 65% of people finishing a degree in at a North West University find employment in the region.

over 25% of the UK’s

chemicals workforce are

employed in this region

103,000 people are employed in the Food and drink industry in the North West

The biomedical sector employs 20,000 people in this region

% of North West workforce in each industry

10.7% Production industries 6.7% Construction 16.1% Wholesale & retail, motor vehicle repair 5.3% transportation & Logistics 6.4% Accommodation & food services 2% information and Communication 2.8% Financial & insurance 1.5% real estate 6.2% Professional, scientific & technical 7.1% Admin & support 22.8% Education, Health & Social Care 11.3% Public admin, arts and other 0.9% Agriculture, hunting, forestry & fishing

320,000 people are employed in the digital and

creative sectors combined

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk Useful Stuff



Currently on offer






Apprenticeships

47

75% of the top 100 companies in the country have bases in the North West, which means there are plenty of opportunities England’s third most populated region ...

In tHe nortH west...



Currently on offer






Apprenticeships

are you lookingfor a rewarding,long-term careerin a growingsector?

apprenticeships in social care

about the post-16 apprenticeship

A Post-16 Apprenticeship* is a combination ofon the job training and classroom learningwhich includes a National VocationalQualification (NVQ), Technical Certificate andKey Skills, giving you a well roundedqualification which can lead to a rewarding,long-term and varied career in a growing sector.

An apprenticeship in social care gives you theopportunity to develop your own unique career path to suit your needs and ambitions,enhancing your current skills as well asgaining new ones.

about the social care sector

Social care is a growing sector with many diverseroles. People are living longer and expect andhave a right to live their lives how they choosecreating more independence and choice. Social care offers care and support to people:

with learning disabilitieswith physical disabilitieswith visual and or hearing impairmentswho are olderwho may have mental health issueswho have drug, alcohol and substancedependencieswho live independently in their own homeswho live in residential settings

No two days are the same in social care. Job variety, flexible hours and the satisfaction of helpingothers are what attract many social care staff to the sector.

for a brighter future, think social care apprenticeshipsfor more information visit:www.skillsforcare.org.uk/apprenticeships

*Post-16 Apprenticeships are open to all ages above 16. Whilst employers have their own recruitment criteria,notably CRB checks, apprentices also must be employed a minimum of 16 hours per week.

an apprenticeship in social care couldbe the answer – earn while you learn!

SfC Open Doors Advert (420 x 297)_Layout 1 08/03/2011 16:27 Page 1

are you lookingfor a rewarding,long-term careerin a growingsector?

apprenticeships in social care

about the post-16 apprenticeship

A Post-16 Apprenticeship* is a combination ofon the job training and classroom learningwhich includes a National VocationalQualification (NVQ), Technical Certificate andKey Skills, giving you a well roundedqualification which can lead to a rewarding,long-term and varied career in a growing sector.

An apprenticeship in social care gives you theopportunity to develop your own unique career path to suit your needs and ambitions,enhancing your current skills as well asgaining new ones.

about the social care sector

Social care is a growing sector with many diverseroles. People are living longer and expect andhave a right to live their lives how they choosecreating more independence and choice. Social care offers care and support to people:

with learning disabilitieswith physical disabilitieswith visual and or hearing impairmentswho are olderwho may have mental health issueswho have drug, alcohol and substancedependencieswho live independently in their own homeswho live in residential settings

No two days are the same in social care. Job variety, flexible hours and the satisfaction of helpingothers are what attract many social care staff to the sector.

for a brighter future, think social care apprenticeshipsfor more information visit:www.skillsforcare.org.uk/apprenticeships

*Post-16 Apprenticeships are open to all ages above 16. Whilst employers have their own recruitment criteria,notably CRB checks, apprentices also must be employed a minimum of 16 hours per week.

an apprenticeship in social care couldbe the answer – earn while you learn!

SfC Open Doors Advert (420 x 297)_Layout 1 08/03/2011 16:27 Page 1

enGIneerInG ApprentICesHIps – jUst tHe joB!

M anufacturing and engineering is an extremely broad field, so there’s a range

of Apprenticeships to choose from. Some of the main industries covered

include aviation, car production, energy,

textiles, food, furniture, glass, metals

and printing. All of these industries (and others) require complex machinery

that needs to be designed, built and

maintained – which is what you’ll learn

about on an engineering Apprenticeship.

Engineers come in all shapes and sizes,

specialising in particular areas, such as

construction and electronics.

Manual and technical skills are important

and maths, IT and science are often

relevant. You need to be good at following instructions and working as

part of a team, but engineers in particular

often need to use their own initiative to

solve problems.

If you’d like to see for yourself whether

an engineering Apprenticeship could

be for you try out the Engineering Apprenticeship Career Matching Tool,

launched by Jaguar Land Rover, BAE

Systems and Rolls Royce, to help you

make an informed choice.

Are you considering a career in engineering and would like to learn and earn? If so, then an engineering Apprenticeship could be just the job!

Why use the tool? It includes a quiz, links to complimentary resources, as well as a wide range of video-clips from current apprentices working for BAE Systems, Jaguar Land Rover and Rolls-Royce. These videos have been designed to answer commonly-asked questions, and give you a real idea of what life as an apprentice is really like. You will also receive your own personalised feedback and guidance report. The online tool can be found at http://engineeringtool.apprenticeships.org.uk/

Alternatively, if you are considering an Apprenticeship but not sure which one, view the ‘Types of Apprenticeships’ section at apprenticeships.org.uk which has information on nearly 200 types of Apprenticeships suitable for hundreds of job roles.

Supporting Apprenticeship Week

7 - 11 February 2011

Useful Stuff

50


bentley engineer louis makes the

grade as apprenticeship ambassador

After considering all his career options Louis Warburton applied to be an apprentice at the prestigious Bentley

Motors and is now a successful resident engineer and Apprenticeship Ambassador.

Louis Warburton 21, completed a four-year Craft and Technical Apprenticeship with Bentley Motors in Crewe,

Cheshire. Currently he is studying for a foundation degree in Mechanical Engineering and works full time as a

Junior Resident Engineer with the aim of one day achieving a full honours degree. He joined the Apprenticeship

programme after completing a BTEC course at college.

Since being an apprentice Louis has undertaken an NVQ level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations, an

NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Leadership and a Level 3 National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

Louis says “I work as a Junior Resident Engineer within the Body Engineering Test and Development Team,

supporting the build of pre-production vehicles. Eventually I would like to progress to a Senior Engineering

Position within Bentley Motors.”

He added “I didn’t believe that university was for me however I was still keen to continue with education and

eventually achieve a degree. I have enjoyed every minute of being

an apprentice especially the support I have received from Bentley

Motors. I am able to begin my career confidently in the knowledge

that my Apprenticeship has prepared me well”.

Louis was asked to join the Young Apprenticeship

Ambassadors Network, and is an active member promoting

Apprenticeships to young people and employers in the

North West.


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Useful Stuff

Bury Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.bury.gov.uk

Manchester City Councilwww.manchester.gov.uk

Oldham Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.oldham.gov.uk

Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.rochdale.gov.uk

Salford City Councilwww.salford.gov.uk

Stockport Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.stockport.gov.uk

Tameside Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.tameside.gov.uk

Trafford Metropolitan Boroughwww.trafford.gov.uk

Wigan Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.wiganmbc.gov.uk

LancashireBlackburn with Darwen Borough Councilwww.blackburn.gov.uk

Blackpool Borough Councilwww.blackpool.gov.uk

Burnley Borough Councilwww.burnley.gov.uk

Chorley Borough Councilwww.chorley.gov.uk

Fylde Borough Councilwww.fylde.gov.uk

onlIne 14-19 prospeCtUses

Blackburn & Darwenwww.steps4me.co.uk

Blackpoolwww.steps4me.co.uk

Boltonbolton.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Burybury.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Cumbriacumbria.futures4me.co.uk

Knowsleywww.i-chooseknowsley.org.uk

Lancashirewww.steps4me.co.uk

Manchesterwww.manchester14-19.co.uk

Oldhamprospectus.yourchoice14plus.co.uk

Rochdalerochdale.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Salfordsalford.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Seftonwww.i-choosesefton.org.uk

St. Helenssecure.apply-sthelens.com

Stockportstockport.futures4me.co.uk

Tamesidewww.yourchoiceintameside.co.uk

Traffordwww.trafford14-19.co.uk

Warringtonwww.wayahead.uk.com

Wiganwigan.portal.s-cool.co.uk

Wirralwww.i-choosewirral.org.uk

loCAl CoUnCIls

CheshireCheshire East Councilwww.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Cheshire West and Chester Councilwww.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Halton Borough Councilwww.halton.gov.uk

Warrington Borough Councilwww.warrington.gov.uk

CumbriaAllerdale Borough Councilwww.allerdale.gov.uk

Copeland Borough Councilwww.copelandbc.gov.uk

Barrow in Furness Borough Councilwww.barrowbc.gov.uk

Carlisle City Councilwww.carlisle.gov.uk

Cumbria County Councilwww.cumbriacc.gov.uk

Eden District Councilwww.eden.gov.uk

South Lakeland District Councilwww.southlakeland.gov.uk

Greater ManchesterBolton Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.bolton.gov.uk

UseFUl lInKsDIreCtorY

Useful Stuff

52


Hyndburn Borough Councilwww.hyndburnbc.gov.uk

Lancashire County Councilwww.lancashire.gov.uk

Lancaster City Councilwww.lancaster.gov.uk

Pendle Borough Councilwww.pendle.gov.uk

Preston City Councilwww.preston.gov.uk

Ribble Valley Borough Councilwww.ribblevalley.gov.uk

Rossendale Borough Councilwww.rossendale.gov.uk

South Ribble Borough Councilwww.southribble.gov.uk

West Lancashire Borough Councilwww.westlancsdc.gov.uk

Wyre Borough Councilwww.wyrebc.gov.uk

Merseyside

Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.knowsley.gov.uk

Liverpool City Councilwww.liverpool.gov.uk

Sefton Councilwww.sefton.gov.uk

St Helens Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.sthelens.gov.uk

Wirral Metropolitan Borough Councilwww.wirral.gov.uk

ColleGes

Accrington And Rossendale Collegewww.accross.ac.uk Ashton Sixth Form Collegewww.asfc.ac.uk

Blackburn Collegewww.blackburn.ac.uk

Blackpool And The Fylde Collegewww.blackpool.ac.uk

Bolton Collegewww.boltoncollege.ac.uk

BoLTon 6Th ForM CoLLegewww.bolton-sfc.ac.uk/ BurnLey CoLLegewww.burnley.ac.uk

Bury College www.burycollege.ac.uk

CArLiSLe CoLLegewww.carlisle.ac.uk/ Cheadle And Marple Sixth Form Collegewww.camsfc.ac.uk Furness Collegewww.furness.ac.uk

Hopwood Hall Collegewww.hopwood.ac.uk

Hugh Baird Collegewww.hughbaird.ac.uk Kendal Collegewww.kendal.ac.uk

Knowsley Community Collegewww.knowsleycollege.ac.uk

Lancaster & Morecambe Collegewww.lmc.ac.uk Liverpool Community Collegewww.liv-coll.ac.uk Macclesfield Collegewww.macclesfield.ac.uk

The Manchester College www.themanchestercollege.ac.uk

MyerSCough CoLLegewww.myerscough.ac.uk Mid-Cheshire Collegewww.midchesh.ac.uk

Oldham Collegewww.oldham.ac.uk

Preston Collegewww.preston.ac.uk Priestley Collegewww.priestleycollege.ac.uk Riverside College Haltonwww.riversidecollege.ac.uk

Salford Collegewww.salford-col.ac.uk Skelmersdale And Ormskirk Collegewww.skelmersdale.ac.uk

South Cheshire Collegewww.s-cheshire.ac.uk

SouThporT CoLLegewww.southport-college.ac.uk

St Helens Collegewww.sthelens.ac.uk

St John Rigby Collegewww.sjr.ac.uk

Stockport Collegewww.stockport.ac.uk TrAFForD CoLLegewww.trafford.ac.uk Uk College Of Arts And Technologywww.ukcatcollege.com

WArringTon CoLLegiATewww.warrington.ac.uk/ WeST CheShire CoLLegewww.west-cheshire.ac.uk

WigAn AnD Leigh CoLLegewww.wigan-leigh.ac.uk

WirrAL MeT CoLLegewww.wmc.ac.uk/

otHer UseFUl sItes

Careers Advicecareersadvice.direct.gov.uk

Connexions Directwww.connexions-direct.com/

Jobcentre Pluswww.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

Jobs 4uwww.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u/

National Apprenticeship Servicewww.apprenticeships.org.uk

Need 2 Knowwww.need2know.co.uk

Skillwww.skill.org.uk

Work Experiencewww.work-experience.org


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Useful Stuff

visit our website (www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk) and click on the Facebook icon on the top right corner of the page. It will take you straight to our Facebook page.

or, while you’re on Facebook, search for ‘The Regional Training Prospectus’ – that’s us!

FinD USIt couldn’t be easier to find our Facebook page. Either:

FInD Uson FACeBooK

UploaD picSWe love to travel – our magazine is sent out to schools all

over Britain, from Dover to Carlisle, and every in between.

Upload a pic of you with your copy of The Regional Training

Prospectus, and represent your hometown on our page!

reaD oUr WallMissing us between issues? Then read our wall where we regularly

post information, articles, learner success stories, opportunities in

the area, and much more. That should keep you going!

And don’t forget to at least post us a hello!

join the DiScUSSionWe do all the talking in these pages, so we’d like to hear what you have to say too. That’s why we have a discussion board where other readers from across the country get in on the debate about stuff that affects you right now, like the recent scrapping of the EMA fund. Just click on ‘Discussions’ on the left hand column of our Facebook page and speak your mind!

liKe USDon’t forget to show the love and ‘Like’

us. It makes us feel all warm and fuzzy.ryanallen.com - moc.nellanayr

WIN pRIzES!Get involved on our page and

you could win cool prizes!

Upload pics and join the

discussions to be entered.

We’ll announce winners to

everyone who’s “liked” us.

So log on today!

Get in on the discussion, upload pics and say hello on the Regional Training Prospectus Facebook page

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54


Is Your Future

SORTED?

chooseto

at Wirral Metropolitan College

To check out the range of Apprenticeshipsand other full-time and part-time

opportunities, call one of ourStudent Advisers on 0151 551 7777

or visit www.wmc.ac.uk

Documents

Open Doors North West Summer 2011