Looking to the future 2006/07 by Lynda Hallett

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:55 pm

Page 1

! P U P P U M P JJU M U go ffoorr iitt!!!

a d go nd an

VEE SIIV M SS AS MA RYY!! OR D REECCTTHO DIIR OOL!!

EEVVEERRYY SSCCHOOL GEE!! OLLLLEEG EEVVEERRYY CCO G ING IN NIN EEVVEERRYY LLEEAARRN IDEERR!! ID PPRRO OVVID

! m r ! o F m r h o t F x i h S t x i S ! s p i ! h s s p i e h c i s t e n c i e t r p n e p r A p Ap ! n o i ! t n a o c i t u a d c E u r d e E h r t r e u h FFurt EE22EE!! o? d o t g n i o g hat are you Wh

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:55 pm

Page 2

Go Further with

OPEN EVENINGS: 19 October 2006 5.30 - 9.00pm

18 January 2007 6.30 - 9.00pm

Call for a prospectus... Attend an Open Evening... Visit our website...

Pass rates above national averages in A levels, AS and BTECs – over 80 courses currently available Outstanding facilities in an environment designed to ensure success for all our 16 -19 year olds from over 70 schools Established College bus routes in Thurrock, Basildon, Billericay, Brentwood, Rainham and Wickford

What our students like about Palmer’s... “Friendly, accessible staff”... “Variety of teaching styles”... “Being treated like adults”... “Good teaching and academic support”... (From College Ofsted Inspection Report)

N CHADWELL ROAD GRAYS, ESSEX RM17 5TD T: 0 1 3 7 5 3 7 0 1 2 1 F: 01375 385479 Txt: 0 7 9 0 6 1 7 5 8 9 6 enquiries@palmers.ac.uk

ow you are in your last year of compulsory education, everyone will be telling you that it is time to start thinking about the Future. This is probably the last thing you want to think about at the moment and your social life is top on your list of priorities. The main thing to remember is not to panic; there is lots of help and advice out there for you. Regardless of your qualifications or how you get on at school there are always options available to you. This magazine is designed to give you advice on where to go next. You will find information on Further Education, Apprenticeships and work based learning, or even if you are looking to go on to full time employment, there is advice on application forms, C.V’s and going for interviews. Whatever route you decide to take after compulsory education, you will find information on how to obtain your goal. If you are still left unsure about your future, check out other sources of information and advice, such as websites, your careers advisers in School or your local Connexions Centre. Don’t be afraid to approach these people for advice, they are there to help and guide you and may even come up with an idea you never even thought of! Just remember to get your applications in early, this will leave you time to concentrate on your exams and enjoy yourself at the same time.

CareersMediaExhibitions

Regardless of your qualifications or how you get on at school there are always options available to you...

Please note that the information and listings in this publication are correct at the time of going to print, although we make every effort to ensure that the information is up to date, Careers & Exhibitions Ltd cannot be held responsible for any changes in the information given

The Glass House

6 Nicholson Road, Thundersley, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 1RJ Tel: 01702 551100 Fax: 01702 556100

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:55 pm

Page 2

Go Further with

OPEN EVENINGS: 19 October 2006 5.30 - 9.00pm

18 January 2007 6.30 - 9.00pm

Call for a prospectus... Attend an Open Evening... Visit our website...

N CHADWELL ROAD GRAYS, ESSEX RM17 5TD T: 0 1 3 7 5 3 7 0 1 2 1 F: 01375 385479 Txt: 0 7 9 0 6 1 7 5 8 9 6 enquiries@palmers.ac.uk

CareersMediaExhibitions

Regardless of your qualifications or how you get on at school there are always options available to you...

The Glass House

6 Nicholson Road, Thundersley, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 1RJ Tel: 01702 551100 Fax: 01702 556100

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:55 pm

Page 4

what happens

NOW? Y

ou are now in year 11 and this is your last year in compulsory education. You will now need to make some major decisions about your future. In year 9 you will have chosen your GCSE subjects, giving you some experience of making important decisions. There are lots of options available to you at the end of year 11 and you may find the decisions to be made are complicated. You need to be thinking about the best option for you, whether you want to go on to Further Education, go on to a training programme or look for a job. Although this may seem a long way off, you need start thinking about it now. You also need to think about your long term goals and ambitions.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;You need to consider your strengths and weaknesses and what your GCSEresults will be. Gather as much information as you can on your chosen route and talk to as many people as you can.â&#x20AC;? 04

Looking to the Future 2006/07

There are three main options when you finish your compulsory education: Going on to Further Education at Sixth Form or Further Education College or joining a work based learning programme or finding employment.

When considering what option you want to take, you will need to take some time and ask yourself some important questions: Do you want to obtain more qualifications? If so will you be happier staying on at school Sixth Form where you will be mixing with people of your own age in familiar surroundings, or do you want to go to a further education college, where you will meet lots of new people of mixed ages in a new environment.

Do you want to carry on learning while earning money? Apprenticeships offer you the opportunity to learn, whilst working for an employer and earning money at the same time.

Do you want to go on to full time employment? This may seem attractive to you at the moment as you will start earning money immediately, however, if you have high ambitions this may not offer you the opportunity to progress as much as you would if you had more qualifications.

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:55 pm

Page 4

what happens

NOW? Y

Looking to the Future 2006/07

Do you want to carry on learning while earning money? Apprenticeships offer you the opportunity to learn, whilst working for an employer and earning money at the same time.

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 6

IT ONLY HAPPENS ONCE,SO DON’T MISS YOUR...

feel you want to stay on at...?

PROM

So your exams are done, and it’s time to let your hair down at the prom! If you want to impress, why not take advantage of a professional make-up artist for the occassion. With over 15 years experience in the beauty industry Jane can cover all styles and trends and make you look good enough for any VIP occassion!

sixth form

NIGHT

f you are thinking of staying on at School Sixth Form, you may want to stay on at your current school if they have one or move to a different school. Studying in School Sixth Form will give you the opportunity to work towards ‘AS’ Levels, ‘A’ Levels or Vocational ‘A’ levels in your chosen subjects. You may want to find a School Sixth Form that offers specialised qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma. School Sixth Forms also offer the opportunity to be involved with extra curricular activities; these include sport, day trips, holidays and taking part in schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. When you enter School Sixth Form, you may or may not have to wear a uniform depending on which one you choose. You will be treated as an adult and the atmosphere will be more relaxed than your previous schooling. When you have finished your studies, you can either go on to higher education or look for employment. For information on what GCSE’s you need to follow this route, you can speak to your Personal Adviser, Careers Teacher or you can telephone one of the School Sixth Forms listed in this magazine.

You will be treated as an adult and the atmosphere will be more relaxed than your previous schooling. 06

Looking to the Future 2006/07

For further details and pricing call Jane on 07919 616144

ST MARTIN’S SCHOOL Sixth Form Centre,

Hanging Hill Lane, Hutton, Brentwood

There’s a course for you at HRC.

Boost your career prospects. Make friends and develop new skills. To find out what college life is really like visit our Open Evenings between 5.30 - 8.30pm on the following Wednesdays:

With 350 A Level students we can offer a wide range of subjects and excellent facilities including air conditioned seminar rooms and air conditioned common room with bistro.

OPEN EVENING Wednesday 15th November 7.00pm to 9.00pm For prospectus etc., telephone the school on 01277 238300

8th November 2006, 7th February 2007 and 23rd May 2007. We offer the widest range of full-time and part-time courses in your area, taught by friendly, qualified staff with real life experiences.

Call 01992 411 411 or visit www.hrc.ac.uk

Hertford Regional College Ware Centre, Scotts Road, Ware, Herts. SG12 9JF. Broxbourne Centre, Turnford, Broxbourne, Herts. EN10 6AE.

hrc Make it real.

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 6

IT ONLY HAPPENS ONCE,SO DON’T MISS YOUR...

feel you want to stay on at...?

PROM

sixth form

NIGHT

You will be treated as an adult and the atmosphere will be more relaxed than your previous schooling. 06

Looking to the Future 2006/07

For further details and pricing call Jane on 07919 616144

ST MARTIN’S SCHOOL Sixth Form Centre,

Hanging Hill Lane, Hutton, Brentwood

There’s a course for you at HRC.

Boost your career prospects. Make friends and develop new skills. To find out what college life is really like visit our Open Evenings between 5.30 - 8.30pm on the following Wednesdays:

With 350 A Level students we can offer a wide range of subjects and excellent facilities including air conditioned seminar rooms and air conditioned common room with bistro.

OPEN EVENING Wednesday 15th November 7.00pm to 9.00pm For prospectus etc., telephone the school on 01277 238300

8th November 2006, 7th February 2007 and 23rd May 2007. We offer the widest range of full-time and part-time courses in your area, taught by friendly, qualified staff with real life experiences.

Call 01992 411 411 or visit www.hrc.ac.uk

Hertford Regional College Ware Centre, Scotts Road, Ware, Herts. SG12 9JF. Broxbourne Centre, Turnford, Broxbourne, Herts. EN10 6AE.

hrc Make it real.

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 8

APPRENTICESHIPS

If going into full time education or going straight into employment isn’t what you want to do, there is an alternative - apprenticeships. pprenticeships give you the best of both worlds. You will be able to earn your own money through work and gain nationally recognised qualifications at the same time. They may even help you go on to university later on in life. You will gain confidence in yourself and your abilities and gain the kind of experience that employers look for. An Apprenticeship offers an excellent opportunity to gain an edge in the world of work and will help you to get a skilled job.

There are two levels of Apprenticeships, Foundation and Advanced:

Apprenticeship Case Study Anthony Compton Apprenticeship, Electronic Engineering Unlike many 16-year-olds, Anthony Compton had a very clear idea of what he wanted to do when he left school. A career in electronics was what appealed, but his GCSE grades weren't good enough to get him into full-time college. He spent a couple of months working in a local shop weighing up his options, one of which was to re-sit some of his GCSEs. But then a friend told him about Metcom Training and the opportunity to do an Apprenticeship. “I was quite prepared to re-sit my exams if necessary, but when I talked to Metcom and I realised I could do what I wanted by working and gaining qualifications at the same time, it seemed a better option," said Anthony. He started an Apprenticeship in Electronic Engineering with Metcom and subsequently got a work placement with ISG Thermal Systems Group of Basildon, working in production building thermal cameras. As part of his Apprenticeship he went to Metcom one day a week. Tony successfully completed his Apprenticeship and is now working towards his Advanced Apprenticeship. He has also achieved an ONC and is hoping to gain an HNC! “It's probably taken me a couple of years longer by going down this route than it would have done had I gone to college full-time straight from school, but I've gained valuable work experience along the way and I've been earning!” he added.

A Foundation Apprenticeship develops skills and gives an introduction to your chosen work area. You will study for an NVQ level 2 qualification and if successful you can choose to progress onto an Advanced Apprenticeship.

BP Coryton ’s Apprenticeship Scheme BP is an international company with operation An Advanced Apprenticeship is designed for the over 70 countries. BP Coryton offers 4-year a Apprenticeship imanagers, technical staff and supervisors of the future. Study is maintenance trades (Mechanical Rotating, Elec up to NVQ level 3 or 4. Instrumentation) and in Production, which be Because these are national qualifications, they ensure September 2007. The scheme consists of you get a skilled job and they are recognised everywhere. combination of external training and further You will gain experience and specialist knowledge in at Thurrock College, Grays-the and -jobontraining at th Refinery. your job, which will allow you to develop further than if you had an NVQ alone. You will also gain skills which can be transferred To join us you must: st 2007 1 • Be over 16 years old on September to future employment such as problem solving, teamwork and • Have (or predicted to obtain) three GCSEs at communication. or above in Maths, English and Science Training will be carried out mainly in the workplace and equivalents is specially designed to provide you with support, supervision • Have a‘safety comes first ’mentality • Be committed to training and education forand work-based mentoring. year period Qualifications are not essential to do a Apprenticeship, The scheme ’s features include a competitive salthough most companies do have entry requirements. good prospects and a discretionary bonus sc Each Apprentice will have an individual trai

Looking to the Future 2006/07

MetTech UK 4 Riverside House Lower Southend Road Wickford, Essex SS11 8BB 01268 769303 wickford@mettech.co.uk www.mettech.co.uk

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 8

APPRENTICESHIPS

There are two levels of Apprenticeships, Foundation and Advanced:

Looking to the Future 2006/07

MetTech UK 4 Riverside House Lower Southend Road Wickford, Essex SS11 8BB 01268 769303 wickford@mettech.co.uk www.mettech.co.uk

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 10

By JO TAYLOR South East Essex College

Chelmsford College

further urther Education is any study taken after school from the age of fourteen onwards. You have a wealth of colleges and sixth form centres offering Further Education available to you, delivering a vast array of courses from A levels to BTECs in hundreds of subjects. To make the best decisions for your future you need to be doing your research now. It is not as hard as you may think. Each college offers a slightly different experience depending on the type of courses on offer, and how they are studied. You need to ask yourself if you feel safe studying in a similar style to a school classroom; or if you are ready for a more grown-up experience of managing your own time and motivating yourself within a larger learning environment. Your school will give you lots of publications and prospectuses relating to the options available. Prospectuses give you vital information that will help you understand the process of Further Education.

When looking at them you will need to consider: • What subjects you are interested in and could do well at • What grades you need to achieve to be accepted on the course • What level the course is studied at • Will the course give you the qualification you want to allow you to progress onto Higher Education or a job • The local travel network to make sure you can get there • What links the college has to industry • Would you would prefer to do a vocational course that will give you more hands on experience ready for the workplace e.g. BTECs, ILEX or to study academic subjects such as A levels

Looking to the Future 2006/07

You will often find an application form within a prospectus. To secure a place, you should submit your application form by the Christmas prior to the year you will be enrolling on your course. It may be possible to apply at a later date but the earlier the application the better. It is important that you are happy with the amount of support you are offered as a student by the colleges you are considering. Make sure it is easy for you to contact to their student support team. Open events are a great way to gather information. You will have the opportunity to walk around the colleges and check out their facilities, talk to tutors, attend talks and sometimes take part in activities within the area of study you are interested in. Current students are normally available to give you a firsthand account of their Yo learning experience at ask you need to the college. Open urself feel if event dates can similasafe studyingyou r be found via in a style to clas college ready sroom; or if a school prospectuses, experfior a more gyou are r wn-u ence o bookmarks, p f mano y o u r own tim aging websites and m otivati college adverts. ng youe and w rself i thin a Websites are a l a r g e r lea good place to start enviror ning your research. They nment . often provide you with maps of the college and more detailed information on specific courses. It will also show you the whole progression paths available in the college so you can consider future options. So if you are not sure what to do next spend some of your internet time looking at the colleges available to you in your area. Do your research and make sure you know what great opportunities are out there. It's up to you to create them!

Stand out Last year over 1500 young people made the decision that Chelmsford College was the best place to continue their education, they can’t all be wrong... Why is it the best place? Wide range of subjects/vocational areas: Administration, Art and Design, Business, Child Care, Construction, Engineering, Health and Care, IT, Forensic Science, Catering, Media, Travel and Tourism Public Services and Sport.

Good support for students: Dyslexia support, extra time in exams, in class support, specialist equipment.

Lots of additional activities: Men and women’s sports teams, Work experience, Student Union and University visits.

This is a good place to be and so if you want to join us in September 2007, please contact our Information Centre and we will send you a prospectus and an invitation to our Information Evening

01245 293009 www.chelmsford-college.ac.uk information@chelmsford-college.ac.uk

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 10

By JO TAYLOR South East Essex College

Chelmsford College

Looking to the Future 2006/07

Good support for students: Dyslexia support, extra time in exams, in class support, specialist equipment.

Lots of additional activities: Men and women’s sports teams, Work experience, Student Union and University visits.

This is a good place to be and so if you want to join us in September 2007, please contact our Information Centre and we will send you a prospectus and an invitation to our Information Evening

01245 293009 www.chelmsford-college.ac.uk information@chelmsford-college.ac.uk

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 12

E2E

FLEET TUTORS

What is E2E? E2E is a new learning programme, which has been available since 1st August 2003. The programme aims to help those young people who are not yet ready or able to directly enter an Apprenticeship programme, further education or employment. E2E replaces programmes called Life Skills, Preparatory Training and NVQ Learning at Level 1 (for people aged 16-18). Young people are helped to prepare to get a job, a job with training, Apprenticeship or to go into further education.

Who is eligible for E2E? If you are between 16 – 18 years in England and you are not taking part in any type of learning since leaving full time education you are eligible to go onto E2E, if you and your Connexions Personal Adviser feel that it will help you to progress to further learning and/or a job. Your Connexions Personal Adviser can talk to you about your eligibility if you still feel that the E2E programme would be suitable for you and you are older than 18.

How long does E2E last? E2E is based on your needs. Some people may need relatively short periods of time to prepare for entry to an Apprenticeship, a job, or further learning opportunities. Others might need much more help before they are ready to move on to training or a job.

How many hours per week will I be on E2E? This depends on the needs of each individual learner but it is estimated that learners will attend somewhere between 16 and 40 hours per week. In special circumstances attendance for 8-16 hours may be agreed.

Looking to the Future 2006/07

Will I get any money for being on E2E? Yes. The minimum allowance is £40 per week. In addition, your expenses are paid in full. You will also receive a bonus for starting E2E and for achieving various outcomes such as completing your Individual Activity Plan, making good progress or for gaining a qualification.

Fleet Tutors has 29 years experience helping students of all ages and abilities to reach their potential. Unique among private tuition agencies, Fleet Tutors works on behalf of the client not the tutor, matching student with tutor and monitoring progress to ensure tuition is a success. Recommended and used by local education authorities, Fleet Tutors has also been recognised in the national press as Britain’s leading tutoring company. In Essex alone, Fleet Tutors offers over 120 experienced and qualified local tutors who are experienced and qualified to tutor young people at GCSE, AS, A-level and University. According to our 2006 research, over 80% of students tutored by Fleet Tutors have experienced an increase of 1 or more grades on their predicted exam result on GCSE, AS or ALevels. Many of Fleet’s tutors (all enhanced CRB checked) have been tutoring for the company for many years and have established track records of success in helping pupils gain admission to the leading colleges and universities. All tutors are required to have a degree in the subject they teach, teaching qualifications or higher. Fleet Tutors succeeds by helping young people realise their academic goals by building their confidence, reducing anxiety and raising their aspirations with individually tailored tuition programmes. For more information, visit www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Telephone 01206 760 276 or 0845 644 5452

How can I find out about E2E programmes in my area? Staff from your local Connexions Services can advise you about E2E opportunities within your local area as part of normal careers guidance activities during year 10 and 11 and as you make your decisions about what to do when you leave full time education. You can also be referred to E2E from other agencies such as social services or youth offending teams if appropriate. Work based learning providers can also identify young people who may benefit from E2E learning programmes.

Where and how will the learning take place? Learning takes place in a variety of settings including the class room, or by one-to-one coaching, group activities, discussions, projects presentations from speakers, on line e-learning, open learning, work placements and experience, external visits, outward bound activities, volunteering etc.

Which qualifications will I work towards? Ideally all young people will, wherever possible, work towards some form of qualification. Gaining a qualification can be a positive motivator for many young people to continue learning. Within E2E there is a range of qualifications that you can achieve. Some people may be ready to undertake qualifications from the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), whereas for others it may be more appropriate for them to take short courses, such as first aid courses, computer literacy, European Computer Driving License, or the City and Guilds Profile of Achievement.

HOW CAN I GET MORE INFO ABOUT E2E?

Contact your local Connexions service who will be able to advise you. For further details please check www.connexions.gov.uk Details are also available on the LSC website, www.lsc.gov.uk

29 Years Experience

Private Tuition in Your Own Home Get a head start on 2007 exams

★ Qualified enhanced-CRB checked tutors with proven track records ★ Expert GCSE, AS & A-level tuition ★ Over 80% of Fleet Tutors pupils achieve improving exam results by 1 or more grades ★ Holiday, Easter Revision & Study leave tutors- part-time, full-time & residential ★ All Academic subjects and levels to University, professional and beyond

Tel: 0845 644 6452 or 01206 760276 Tutoring Services

Robert J. Agass

A. Guise, LGSM, LLAM

13 Nutberry Avenue, Grays, Essex, RM16 2TL

12 Oak Walk, Hockley, Essex, SS5 5AR

Subjects covered: Maths (All levels, all tiers incl. A Level)

Subjects covered: Confidence Building

English (Foundation, Upper)

Coaching in speaking correctly

Music/Guitar tuition

and effectively

Tel: 01375 382291 E: robertagass1@aol.com

Tel: 01702 203448

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 12

E2E

FLEET TUTORS

Looking to the Future 2006/07

HOW CAN I GET MORE INFO ABOUT E2E?

Contact your local Connexions service who will be able to advise you. For further details please check www.connexions.gov.uk Details are also available on the LSC website, www.lsc.gov.uk

29 Years Experience

Private Tuition in Your Own Home Get a head start on 2007 exams

Tel: 0845 644 6452 or 01206 760276 Tutoring Services

Robert J. Agass

A. Guise, LGSM, LLAM

13 Nutberry Avenue, Grays, Essex, RM16 2TL

12 Oak Walk, Hockley, Essex, SS5 5AR

Subjects covered: Maths (All levels, all tiers incl. A Level)

Subjects covered: Confidence Building

English (Foundation, Upper)

Coaching in speaking correctly

Music/Guitar tuition

and effectively

Tel: 01375 382291 E: robertagass1@aol.com

Tel: 01702 203448

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 14

SAMPLE CV

E L E

L P M SA

E TT

PREPARING

ally a tae (CV) is liter Curriculum Vi formation ‘Vital List’ of in “Curr tells about you. It icu t os Vitae ( lum someone, in m CV literal le employer, ly a ‘V ) is cases a possib ita infor m rtant and ation a l List’ of the most impo It tells b about who someo out you. relevant facts c u ases a n hat yo you are and w possib e, in most r. l fa e t so h emplo e mos have done ments for releva t important yer, Many advertise nt fact a plicants to s abou nd jobs will ask ap y o u t are an In some d what who submit a CV. h ese th a to v y se on ou e sp done s cases the re o . ve f si a as m r .” adverts can be be rapidly CVs will usually job fted against a scanned and si and l list of essentia description, a rticular job. ents for that pa m ire qu re e bl desira cruitment shown that a re nel Surveys have king in person someone wor ok at lo consultant or to s nd SEVE N seco as tle lit as may take al viewing. your CV on initi this stage with be rejected at % Most CVs will ally around 10 rcentage (usu ing be ) only a small pe ts applican the number of er depending on rth er for fu e decision mak forwarded to th decisions are y an ng, before fti si d an ng tti ve r an interview. hom to invite fo w t ou ab e ad m ccess your CV y chance of su an u yo ve gi To e the sort of ly communicat te ia ed m im t mus er is looking pective employ os pr a n io at inform manner as and concise a for in as clear panied by a also be accom ld ou sh It . le possib application. ilored letter of relevant and ta

GOOD C.V. CLEAR: Never more than 2 pages

WELL PRESENTED: Quality print on quality paper

WELL ORGANISED: Chronological and progressive

WELL-WRITTEN: Grammatical accuracy and correct use of English are essential

COMPELLING: Interesting and relevant

IMPRESSIVE: Majoring on achievements not duties

ACCURATE: Honest and supportable

BAD C.V. TOO LONG: Nobody has time to read it

COMPLEX: Don’t use jargon and technical terms wherever possible

CONFUSING: It must be accurate and straightforward

ORNATE: Gimmicks and decorative effects give the wrong impression

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 14

SAMPLE CV

E L E

L P M SA

E TT

PREPARING

GOOD C.V. CLEAR: Never more than 2 pages

WELL PRESENTED: Quality print on quality paper

WELL ORGANISED: Chronological and progressive

WELL-WRITTEN: Grammatical accuracy and correct use of English are essential

COMPELLING: Interesting and relevant

IMPRESSIVE: Majoring on achievements not duties

ACCURATE: Honest and supportable

BAD C.V. TOO LONG: Nobody has time to read it

COMPLEX: Don’t use jargon and technical terms wherever possible

CONFUSING: It must be accurate and straightforward

ORNATE: Gimmicks and decorative effects give the wrong impression

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 16

DON’T PANIC! THE

RES NO NEED TO RU N

! IT’S ONLY...

N O I T A C I L APP

s m r fo B

efore you start to fill in you r application form, read through it tho roughly, try and take a photocopy so you can practice before completing the orig inal. If this is not possible, fill it in in pencil first, read through it a few times and get someone else to read through to make sure you have com pleted it properly. Watch out for special ins tructions, such as ‘use block capitals’ or ‘please use black ink’. Even if it doesn’t tell you to use bla ck ink, it is advisable to do so as this reproduce s better on photocopies. When completing the for m ensure that you give as much information as possible, use your full name and add all your con tact numbers including your mobile num ber, email address and full postal add ress. Always fill in your Educational history and qualifications in chronolog ical order i.e start with the mo st recent and work backw ards. If you have employment histor y, put your most recent firs t and work backwards aga in. List your responsibilities concisely but briefly.

“Check the r closing date fo applications e and make sur you send it in .” plenty of time 16

Looking to the Future 2006/07

MILLENNIUM VOLUNTEERS g:

Millennium Volunteers (MVs) are young people who give up their free time to help their local communities. You might find them coaching a school football team,

working at a community radio station or helping create a garden for local residents. MV allows young people to build on their interests, to develop themselves and make a difference to their community at the same time. After 100 hours of volunteering, MVs will be presented with an Award signed by the Minister for Skills and Vocational Education. However the ultimate aim is to reach the 200 hours target, when MVs will receive an Award of Excellence signed by the Secretary of State. Over 40,000 MVs have received an Award of Excellence so far! Through the course of their voluntary work, MVs will gain valuable skills and experience that they can make use of in the workplace, such as team-working, decision making and communication. MVs can learn practical skills too, such as designing websites or cooking. Having MV on your CV is something that really makes employers and Universities sit up and take notice. So if you are aged between 16 and 24, Millennium Volunteers could bei for you. MV is a national movement with 130 MV Projects established around England, mostly based in local volunteering centres, schools or colleges. For this information and more go to www.dfes.gov.uk/youngpeople/

r to It couldn’t be simple become a MV. Use the search facility at www.millenniumvolunteers.gov.uk/ to find your local project. If there is not a project near you, try one of our national projects. The MV co-ordinator will go through the volunteering opportunities available, and ask you what you are interested in doing. You will be asked to fill out a plan to capture what you hope to do.

Volunteerin Why Do It?

Everyone volunteers for different reasons. For example: • To build confidence and self esteem. Volunteering can help you do things you thoughtyou couldn’t – even things you thought weren’t possible! • To make new friends. Volunteering can help you mix with new people who are into the same things, forming new friends on the way. • To make a difference. Upset that there is nothing for young people to do in your community? Talk to your MV Project and make a difference! • To improve your chances of getting a job. MV on your CV is something employers will respect and may give you another stepping stone towards your dream job. • To gain new skills. Something you’ve always wanted to do? Then go for it and gain valuable skills along the way.

FOLLOW OUR STEP BY STEP GUIDE… • Step 1. Are you eligible for the project? • Step 2. Think about what skills you have to offer or what you’d like to learn • Step 3. Take a look at the projects we have on offer • Step 4. MV doesn’t have to involve a huge time commitment • Step 5. Find a project in your local area using our database search • Step 6. Contact your local project provider For this information and more go to www.dfes.gov.uk/youngpeople/

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 16

DON’T PANIC! THE

RES NO NEED TO RU N

! IT’S ONLY...

N O I T A C I L APP

s m r fo B

“Check the r closing date fo applications e and make sur you send it in .” plenty of time 16

Looking to the Future 2006/07

MILLENNIUM VOLUNTEERS g:

Millennium Volunteers (MVs) are young people who give up their free time to help their local communities. You might find them coaching a school football team,

Volunteerin Why Do It?

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 18

b o j t a t h g i n t t Ge Employment Agencies

Many employers may ask you to fill in an application form; others may ask for a CV and accompanying letter. You will need to make sure that you know how to write these. In order to get a job you will have to have an interview. Make sure you know what is involved and what questions you are likely to be asked. Think about travel. The wider the area you are prepared to travel to, the more jobs are open to you. Make sure you know what sort of job you want. If you aren’t convinced that the job you’re applying for is the right job for you, you’re never going to convince the employer that you are right for the job

Most vacancies advertised by employment agencies are for 18 year olds or over only, but they do sometimes have vacancies for school leavers. Employment agencies can be helpful, particularly if you are looking for a job in London, but remember they make their money by filling vacancies, and so may expect you to go for any job they have for which you are qualified.

Then Start Looking Networking- Use your personal contacts. Contacts are your friends, relatives, people that you know from all areas of your life, including hobbies and work experience. You need to let people know you are interested in finding work and what sort of job you are looking for. The Speculative Letter - This approach involves identifying companies/ businesses that you would like to work for and sending them a letter with your CV even though they are not advertising any vacancies at that time. Many companies will interview you to see if you are suitable for a role within their organisation. Others will keep these CVs for the future and may contact you the next time they have a vacancy. Use your networking contacts or look in Yellow Pages, Thomson and other business directories, or on the internet, to identify companies that may have the kinds of jobs you are interested in.

Look out for JOB ADVERTISEMENTS in: Newspapers, trade journals and magazines – Local employers often advertise in local newspapers. Larger companies may advertise in the national press – check out what types of jobs are in what papers, on what day. Look in trade journals and magazines for specific job vacancies.

Looking to the Future 2006/07

It is now up to y ou to back up w h convince them that you have a at they have already seen on pa p within the com pany and the p ositive attitude and the perso per and na eople you will b e working with lity to fit .

First of all, get ready….

Newsagents, shops and other businesses Check out shop windows in your local area and town centre. Supermarkets often have a job vacancy board. Call in to shops, offices or other businesses and ask if there are any vacancies. You may be asked to fill in an application form or to leave a phone number so that the employer can contact you if they do have any vacancies in the near future. Job Centre/ Connexions Centre – The Job Centre deals mainly with vacancies for people over 18. The Connexions Centre specialises in finding work and training for young people. They have vacancies for 16-21 year olds and have information on training programmes and can help you not only find a job, but also plan a career. The staff are trained to help you with job hunting skills such as help with filling in application forms, writing CVs and practice interviews.

The INTERNET is a good source of job vacancies:

Internet job sites – These sites contain a wide variety of jobs and careers

Points to Always remember when attending an interview:

from all areas, at all levels and across the whole country. You can usually search by job type and location. Find the sites you like the best that have the sort of jobs you’re looking for. • Always look through your application form and CV before you go and make sure you can back up Employment agency sites – Most major employment agencies now have the information you have given. a website. Most sites have a database of jobs that you can search to find the •Wear Suitable/ Smart clothing sort of job that you are looking for. •Make sure your footwear is suitable and clean! Newspaper job sites – The Newspaper job sites list in electronic form all •Be Prepared: Try finding out about the company the jobs that are in the printed paper/ journal. National newspaper sites & the job you are applying for before you go for generally include a search engine to allow you to find the sort of job you want your interview. You could visit the company’s quickly. website if they have one, or speak to your careers Company websites – Most companies now have a adviser. corporate website. These can prove extremely • Make sure you are familiar with the route you useful when you are looking for a job if there need to travel prior to your interview. Try is a particular company that you would travelling to the company by your chosen like to work for. Company websites form of transport beforehand so you know can contain all sorts of useful exactly how long it will take. Always leave information, including company www.a lec.co a little extra time for delays. structure, application procedures .uk/jo bhunt/ for a lis links.h t of inte • Make a list of everything you will need and current vacancies. employ tm rnet job ment a s ites , gencies for the interview and check them off just Website addresses now appear webs ite news pa s and n per/ jou a before you leave. Remember to take in press and television advertising ti o rnal we nal www.t bs ites hisise along the letter inviting you for the as well as in brochures and even on For job s sex.co s adver .uk tis ed in interview if you have one. products themselves. If you don’t Es s ex lo news pa cal p e • You will also need a copy of your CV and know a company’s website address rs www.s coot.c o application form, a pen and your record of this can be easily located with a search .uk achievement. engine/ directory. • When you Arrive: Announce yourself in a confident manner, you will obviously be very nervous and this is natural so don’t worry. Try to channel your nervous energy into positive thinking, listen carefully to what your interviewer is saying • Less than half of all job vacancies are advertised. Most jobs are filled through networking or by speculative application. and respond when necessary. • Make sure you answer all questions concisely • Be prepared to send out lots of letters and don’t be disheartened if and honestly. you don’t always get a reply. Be prepared to ask questions, you may want to • Look for a job with training – it will improve your long-term career prepare them beforehand – if your interviewer prospects. covers all of these questions just say “Thank you, I think you have covered everything” • Employers look for relevant skills and qualities when recruiting staff – At the end of the interview shake hands and make sure you know what skills you need for the job you want to do. thank the interviewer for their time. • If you are not sure which job areas you may be interested in, Personal Advisers can help you to decide what will suit you.

USEFU WEBS L ITES

REMEMBER...

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 18

b o j t a t h g i n t t Ge Employment Agencies

Looking to the Future 2006/07

First of all, get ready….

The INTERNET is a good source of job vacancies:

Internet job sites – These sites contain a wide variety of jobs and careers

Points to Always remember when attending an interview:

USEFU WEBS L ITES

REMEMBER...

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 22

*5($7 )8785(6 67$57 +(5( ([SHULHQFH WKH G\QDPLF DQG IULHQGO\ DWPRVSKHUH LQ RXU DZDUG ZLQQLQJ EXLOGLQJ (QMR\ KLJK TXDOLW\ WHDFKLQJ E\ WDOHQWHG WXWRUV PDQ\ IURP LQGXVWU\ LQ VSHFLDOLVW OHDUQLQJ HQYLURQPHQWV 7R WDVWH WKH &ROOHJH H[SHULHQFH IRU \RXUVHOI DQG ÀQG RXW DERXW WKH FRXUVHV RQ RIIHU FRPH DORQJ WR RQH RI RXU RSHQ HYHQWV ,I \RX FDQ·W PDNH LW WR DQ HYHQW YLVLW ZZZ VRXWKHQG DF XN FDOO RU HPDLO OHDUQLQJ#VRXWKHQG DF XN IRU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ :KHWKHU \RX ZDQW WR JHW LQWR D JUHDW FDUHHU RU JR RQ WR 8QLYHUVLW\ \RXU IXWXUH VWDUWV KHUH

2SHQ (YHQWV 0RQGD\ WK 2FWREHU 7KXUVGD\ UG 1RYHPEHU :HGQHVGD\ VW )HEUXDU\ 6DWXUGD\ WK 0D\ 0RQGD\ WK -XQH $W RXU /XNHU 5RDG 6LWH 6RXWK (DVW (VVH[ &ROOHJH /XNHU 5RDG 6RXWKHQG RQ 6HD (VVH[ 66 1' 7HOHSKRQH 0LQLFRP (PDLO OHDUQLQJ#VRXWKHQG DF XN

SP ² SP SP ² SP SP ² SP SP ² SP SP ² SP

&2856(6 )25 <281* 3(23/(

:LWK DQ DPD]LQJ FKRLFH RI YRFDWLRQDO DQG DFDGHPLF FRXUVHV DQG VWDWH RI WKH DUW IDFLOLWLHV 6RXWK (DVW (VVH[ &ROOHJH LV FRPPLWWHG WR H[FHOOHQFH LQ OHDUQHU DFKLHYHPHQW 7KLV ZDV UHÁHFWHG LQ WKH RXWVWDQGLQJ UHVXOWV RXU VWXGHQWV DFKLHYHG ODVW \HDU

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 22

SP ² SP SP ² SP SP ² SP SP ² SP SP ² SP

&2856(6 )25 <281* 3(23/(

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 20

COLCHESTER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS A Specialist Science College Norman Way, Colchester

DIRECT ENTRY INTO THE SIXTH FORM in September 2007 We are a small, caring and welcoming 11 - 18 school, with a nationally outstanding record of public examination success

LEARN

For further information

email: office@colchestergirls.essex.sch.uk or telephone: 01206 576973 Headteacher: Elizabeth Ward

FOR

LIFE W hatever route you decide to take, learning is the most important fact in determining your future prospects. Whether the learning you do is academic or practical it will increase your confidence and give you a far better chance of getting into the Further Education Course or Career of your choice. Obtaining qualifications will prove to future employers that you are capable of taking on challenges and seeing them through. This will improve your job prospects which lead to higher pay. It will also give you more choice of jobs in your chosen field. You will also find that having a competent learning background will increase your confidence, which is so important when going for interviews, help your personal development and will give you expertise in a specialised subject or occupation. When you finish your compulsory education at the end of year 11 you will have the following options: You will find information on all of these options in this magazine.

Looking to the Future 2006/07

• Stay on at School Sixth Form • Go on to Further Education or Sixth Form College • Go on a Foundation or Advanced Apprenticeship • Go on to e2e (Entry to Employment) Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 20

COLCHESTER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS A Specialist Science College Norman Way, Colchester

DIRECT ENTRY INTO THE SIXTH FORM in September 2007 We are a small, caring and welcoming 11 - 18 school, with a nationally outstanding record of public examination success

LEARN

For further information

email: office@colchestergirls.essex.sch.uk or telephone: 01206 576973 Headteacher: Elizabeth Ward

FOR

Looking to the Future 2006/07

looking_to_the_future_essex.qxd

30/8/06

6:56 pm

Page 24

Hairdressing

Building on Success

- It isn't just for the girls!

- The Sixth Form College, Colchester It's nearly 20 years now since the Sixth Form College, Colchester,

The second cohort of International Baccalaureate students

Liam Harley works in a salon called Excel in Danbury, Essex with fellow learner Ross Fletcher. The

moved into the splendidly re-modelled Edwardian building that

received their results in July 2006. By any measure the results are

manager Carla sends her learners to CTS once a week where they are working towards an NVQ full

dominates the townscape seen from Balkerne Hill. With a steady

outstanding. Fourteen of the fifty four students achieved a points

framework in hairdressing at level 2.

year on year growth in the numbers attending the highly

score of over 40, where 39 is the standard requirement set for

successful college, staff and students are now looking forward to

Oxford and Cambridge entry. The College hopes to expand this

moving, in a few months time, into what will be the equally

exciting and successful programme further over the next few

impressive new college buildings.

years.

We asked Liam how he felt he was getting on at college and what CTS had to offer other learners interested in following a career in hairdressing. “I love working with other hairdressers at college to discuss hairstyles, salons, the course and the clients we meet! I feel I have learnt so much at CTS. I love my tutor Bobbie and get on with all of the

The £5.2 million development links the main college site with the

This vibrant College community of 2,500 16-19 year old students

other learners in my group and all of the other staff here too. This is a very friendly and professional

new IT centre which was opened in 2004. Built with a concern to

is not just successful in academic terms, there is also a

atmosphere at college, we can have a laugh but we know there's work to be done and we enjoy doing it.

ensure energy efficiency and with special recycling facilities, the

tremendous opportunity for students to get involved in a huge

new building will house not only a large multi-purpose hall, but

range of Additional Studies activities. From Rock Music Workshop

also 33 teaching rooms, a lecture theatre and a new refectory.

to Orchestra and from Rugby to Aerobics there are literally a

The tutors at CTS have helped me build my confidence working with the public. I would like to stay on at college once I have completed my level 2 qualification and progress to NVQ level 3. At a later date I would like also to do a management course so in the future I can open up my own salon. Last month I

College that is continuing to build on its successes. In 2005 the

was learner of the month, I was thrilled” If you are interested in discussing a career in hairdressing contact CTS on 01245 494992.

AGED BETWEEN 16 AND 24 YEARS OLD? NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? WHY NOT TRY WBL? (WORK BASED LEARNING) We will help you gain a nationally recognised qualification in one of the following areas: • Business Administration • Customer Service • Warehousing • Retail • Hairdressing • Team Leading • Information Technology We can also help with: Gaining valuable work experience while obtaining qualifications Chelmsford Training Services

Students who join the College in 2006 will certainly be joining a

hundred options to choose from. The success of the College attracts enthusiastic applicants

average UCAS score achieved by students reached 324, about

from across N.Essex and S Suffolk as well as some from even

20% above the national average. This is better than 1A and 2B

further a-field, ensuring that the new facilities will be put to good

grades at A Level, from an intake of students with a GCSE score

use and that new plans to keep building on our success are

that is slightly below the national average.

already under way.

AGED BETWEEN 16 AND 18 YEARS OLD? NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? WHY NOT TRY E2E? (ENTRY TO EMPLOYMENT) We will help you improve on skills such as: • Team building • Employability skills • Interview techniques • Job search skills • C.V writing • Problem solving • Equal opportunities awareness We can also help with: • Gaining nationally recognised qualifications • Work experience • Confidence building • Money management • Moving onto employment, further education or work based learning On top of this you may be eligable for EMA & your travel expenses re-imbursed.

Contact the CTS or Spark Team on 01245 494992 or Unit 4 Beehive Business Centre, Beehive Lane, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 9TE