Way2Go - National 2

THE YEAR THAT WAS...

1992

WHAT WAS GOING ON IN THIS YEAR?...

SEE PAGE 23

OUT OF THIS WORLD! SPACE SPECIAL!

ISSUE 03 SEPTEMBER 2009

LIVE/LEARN/ ASPIRE/ACHIEVE P22

P38 P62

IN THIS ISSUE...

PORT OF TYNE...

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

ASTRONAUTS OUTER SPACE TRAVELS

GAME, SET..

MATCH!

FOR LOADS MORE GREAT CAREERS INFO VISIT: WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

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D R o W E R FO

Launch your career with an Apprenticeship Apprenticeships are a great way to get a head start in your chosen career. You can take an Apprenticeship in 180 types of jobs, from accountancy to textiles, engineering to veterinary nursing and business administration to construction. The options for you to start your career with an Apprenticeship have never been greater.

On an Apprenticeship you earn while you learn, and you avoid student debt. Some Apprenticeships can even count towards a university application.

Aside from the financial benefits of an Apprenticeship, one of the most appealing parts is the practical experience of life in the workplace. As an apprentice you get to learn about an industry and career path through on the job training, putting everything you learn into practice and applying your knowledge to real life situations.

At the National Apprenticeship Service we are here to provide a support service to employers and learners, and we are dedicated to increasing the range and choice of Apprenticeships available. We can help you launch a successful and rewarding career as an apprentice.

To help you get started we have created an online Apprenticeship vacancies system. Here you can view vacancies and manage applications for Apprenticeships opportunities anywhere in England.

Over 3,000 employers have already posted vacancies on the system and there are nearly 4,500 positions currently available.

This service is free and available on the National Apprenticeships Service website. If you are interested in kick starting your career with an Apprenticeship, then please visit our website at www.apprenticeships.org.uk and start your career in style.

Simon Waugh Chief Executive National Apprenticeship Service

“Apprenticeships are a great way to get a head start in your chosen career�

03

iNTRODUcTiON

WelcOMe TO issUe 03: Welcome back after a summer break – sunshine and lazy days will soon seem a distant memory as the new term begins – if you are working towards final examinations in 2010 or finding your way in a new environment, Way2Go will be with you along the journey.

In this edition Way2Go opens up the final frontier...

Space. Included in this issue is an interview with one of the few female astronauts to have experienced life on the Space Shuttle, Rhea Seddon, along with features and information which will be out of this world!

Away from all things space travel, we have interviews with two young people who have fulfilled the W2G aims Live/Learn/Aspire/Achieve. Successful young entrepreneur Fraser Doherty, who has developed an idea for making extra pocket money to running a six figure business. Also featured is a question and answer session with tennis ace Colin Flemming, who has represented Great Britain in the Davis Cup.

PAGE 22

photography competition

PAGE 38

Alongside all our regular features you will find out if you have what it takes to be the next JK Rowling and why career potential in the financial sector is still an interesting option.

Get your story published – get your pictures in print.

If you would like us to feature your school or college email the production manager and our creative director will work with you to produce a double page spread in your own words and pictures.

Enjoy the read – here at Way2Go we are always pleased to hear from you on any topic.

out of this world!

PAGE 62 Distinctive Publishing LTD, 8th floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU

T: 0191 4788316 Pete Thompson

pRODUcTiON MaNaGeR pete.thompson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk Ewan Waterhouse

BUsiNess DeVelOpMeNT MaNaGeR ewan.waterhouse@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

game, set.. match!

liVe/leaRN/aspiRe/acHieVe

CONTENTS plaYTiMe paGe06

DOES THIS FEEL HEAVY TO YOU??

W2G MaGaZiNe 03 6. plaYTiMe 10. YOUR FUTURe appReNTicesHips - NaTiONal appReNTicesHips 12. eNeRGise YOUR liFe - NWDa 16. YOUNG eNTRepReNeUR? - DURHaM cOUNTY cOUNcil 18. GeNeRaTiNG eNTeRpRise - RTc NORTH 20. ReWaRDiNG appReNTicesHips - ROlls ROYce 22. ReFlecT pHOTOGRapHY cOMpeTiTiON - pORT OF TYNe 23. THe YeaR THaT Was...1992 24. sWeeT sUccess 26. sKills4Me pilOT TaKes OFF - a4e 29. Help4TeeNs WeBsiTe - cONNexiONs 30. WHY MaeRsK? - MaeRsK 32. WHaTs THe WelsH FOR scRUM?- Ril 34. GasTRONOMY aND GRaNTs - lsc 36. NeW TRaiNiNG ceNTRe FOR Dcs - Dcs 37. caReeRs - BaRNaRDOs 38. OUTeR space TRaVels 40. q aND a WiTH RHea seDDON 42. cUlTURe sHOcKeD - Ril 44. iT’s a sMall WORlD - NaNOceNTRal 48. HaRD aT WORK - NeBp 50. sO YOU WaNT TO Be THe NexT j.K. ROWliNG? 52. sTOp THiNKiNG YOU caN’T - aiMHiGHeR 54. caReeR OppORTUNiTies iN Oil aND Gas - OpiTO 56. TiMe2cOOK 58. DiscOVeR scieNce - sqa 60. sWiTcH ON TO cliMaTe cHaNGe - Ne cliMaTe cHaNGe 62. GaMe seT...MaTcH 64. cHeMisTRY FOR HeR caReeR - cHeMicals NW 66. sTUDYiNG laNGUaGes aT UNi - Ril 68. GeT a caT iF YOURe UNDeR 16 - NexUs 70. ReWaRDiNG appReNTices sUccess - sTeps 74. a caReeR YOU caN sTill cOUNT ON 76. siMON saYs... - Ril

playtime RalF

BY THe

. . . s e MOVi

alieNs iN THe aTTic

People keep all kinds of junk in their attics: books, old couches, maps to hidden treasure, Grandma. But in the new adventure film, Aliens in the Attic, the Pearson family finds something just a little different living above them.

The film stars Disney’s High School Musical alumna Ashley Tisdale, as a young woman whose boyfriend is taken over by tiny mind-controlling aliens. Now it is up to her and her siblings to defend their house against an all-out alien onslaught.

This is a kiddie movie, plain and simple. Anyone under fourteen or so is going to absolutely fall in love with it. They’re going to love the thought of using mind control on Nana and having her execute Street Fighter moves (even I was impressed by watching Doris Roberts pulling off a Shoryuken), and the thought of hijacking their sister’s boyfriend and making him slam into his own car and confess to his girlriend’s parents that he desperately needs a new set of adult diapers.

But older kids, meanwhile, are going to find the jokes lame and tedious, with not a whole lot of laughs available for them. The comedy here is weak if you’ve graduated high school any time recently.

2

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Mac and Me n E.T. n Zathura: A Space Adventure

06

“THe jOKes laMe aND TeDiOUs, WiTH NOT a WHOle lOT OF laUGHs aVailaBle”

plaYTiMe

“alieN TRespass a FUN TRiBUTe TO 1950s sci-Fi HORROR FilMs, BUT UNFORTUNaTelY NOT qUiTe FUN eNOUGH”

DVD’s...

ALIEN TRESPASS Simultaneously a tribute and spoof to the genre, this comedy/ horror/sci-fi film recreates the hand-made monsters, shiny space suits, screaming close-ups, and classic 1950s housewives from that era.

A lonely waitress (Jenni Baird), a nerdy astronomer named Dr. Ted Lewis (Eric McCormack) married to the perfect housewife (Jody Thompson), and some teenagers witness the crash of an alien spaceship out in the Mojave Desert. The alien Urp assumes the identity of the astronomer and tries to reclaim his prisoner. This prisoner is a different form of alien being called a Ghota, capable of dividing and conquering (with its own unique method).

The silly blob-like alien and the stilted acting, combined with all those melodramatic screams from the women, make Alien Trespass a fun tribute to 1950s sci-fi horror films, but unfortunately not quite fun enough. Like other films that attempt to flashback and reproduce not only the time, but also the style of movie from the past, Alien Trespass is at once stylish and ambitious, yet ultimately unsuccessful.

3

RaTiNG hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Mars Attack n The Blob n War of the World

07

plaYTiMe

. . .

C I S U m

Arctic Monkeys HuMbug

The Arctic Monkeys’ much-anticipated third effort was co-produced by Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme and James Ford, who apart from his work in Simian Mobile Disco plays drums in Alex Turner’s other project, The Last Shadow Puppets. Early reports of the album took note of its more psychedelic sound, which Turner attributes to the band’s interest in Jimi Hendrix at the time of recording. Lead-off single “Crying Lightning” features the “laconic croon” more associated with The Last Shadow Puppets, along with stream-of-consciousness lyrics that hint at the evolution of Turner’s songwriting for the album.

In the end, Humbug feels like a great band nervously feeling their way forward, like baby steps towards something bigger. The next one should be a cracker.

3

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND LISTEN TOO: n The Last Shadow Puppets n Queen of the Stone Age n Kings of Leon

08

“HUMBUG Feels liKe a GReaT BaND NeRVOUslY FeeliNG THeiR WaY FORWaRD”

PLAytime

GAMES...

Space Invaders Extreme After nearly 30 years of blasting space bugs as a pixilated starship, the influence of Space Invaders is still prevalent in other shooters. Iterations of Gradius and R-Type evolved the horizontal movement and vertical shooting of their arcade ancestor, but Space Invaders refuses to be forgotten. Space Invaders Extreme manages to feel like both an ancient relic and a shiny new toy at once. Extreme’s core remains fundamentally intact, but the psychedelic visuals and electronic bass grooves could fool newcomers into thinking that the space invasion started a lot more recently than it did. It’s a fun, hectic blast that over quickly, but you’ll want to come back for more.

Whether or not you grew up on, have already discovered, or are experiencing the franchise for the first time, Space Invaders Extreme is a refreshing, restored, shooter that shouldn’t be passed up. The challenging campaign will have you struggling to beat your mates high scores by acing specific shots and triggering back-to-back fever bonuses, and settling your scuffles online could make for some long, technotronic nights in where time becomes irrelevant.

4

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU TRY: n Galaga n Rez n R-Type

“Space Invaders Extreme is a refreshing, restored, shooter that shouldn’t be passed up”

09

e utur Your F s p i h s e c Apprenti Every year thousands of teenagers embark on an Apprenticeship. This popular career route allows you to earn while you learn, gaining a salary and nationally recognised qualifications at the same time.

In July, the National Apprenticeship Service hosted the annual Apprenticeship Awards, a glittering Awards ceremony held in Central London where the achievements of apprentices were celebrated. At the event hosted by former England International rugby star Matt Dawson and Lilia Kopylova from Strictly Come Dancing, apprentices from across England were recognised for their skills and talent in the workplace.

Sinead Smith and Wayne Manton were amongst the finalists and have both worked extremely hard to produce outstanding results for their employers enabling them to progress in their chosen careers. They talk about why an Apprenticeship was the ideal career route for them.

10

WWW.APPRENTICESHIPS.ORG UK

s

e YealR2 WiNNeR TH F O e c Ti N e R p p a leVe isTRaTiON, DMiN

BUsiNess a

tershire

om Glouces

h fr sinead smit

After completing her GCSEs Sinead applied for a full time Business Administration course at Gloucestershire College.

However, she then saw an advertisement in the local paper for a Business Administration Apprenticeship at the College which would give her the opportunity to gain employment whilst working towards new qualifications.

“I didn’t really know what to expect from the Apprenticeship programme but I definitely thought that I would be spending lots of time in the class room. In fact the opposite was true as much of the course was based on workplace assessment.

This meant that I chose four modules to study and was then assessed on how I managed these within my day to day work. I then produced a portfolio of work for my final assessment. This meant that everything I was learning was really specific to the job that I was carrying out.

“The thought of an Apprenticeship really appealed to me as I would be studying for the sa me qualification whilst also earnin g some money.

I applied for both courses, but in the end I made th e decision to go for the Apprentice ship”

Having gained ten GCSEs and three A-Levels at school, Bristol based Wayne went to University to study Engineering in 2003.

Two years in Wayne felt the course was not giving him the practical experience he desired and decided to leave to do an Advanced Apprenticeship in Engineering.

He said: “My university course was good in terms of getting to understand the theory behind Engineering but I really wanted to get stuck into the practical side. I found out about the Apprenticeship scheme and decided to go for it as it seemed to suit me better as there was a balance of practical work and theory.”

Wayne started his Apprenticeship with Rolls-Royce in 2005 within the Services Defence Aerospace division working on a number of aircraft engine projects. One of the projects Wayne worked on was to investigate why faults occur in some engines and to look at ways in which these might be alleviated due to the expense they can cause to the company. Wayne successfully identified a number of improvements that could be made and provided Rolls-Royce with considerable cost savings.

Completing a number of business placements within Rolls-Royce has helped Wayne to gain a rounded view of the business and his role within in it. Commended by his employers for his ‘can do’ attitude throughout his Apprenticeship, he has swiftly passed all his modules. With increased confidence he now leads on projects and in doing so supports the progression of other apprentices.

After completing his Apprenticeship and gaining the practical skills he strived to obtain Wayne has decided to complete a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of the West of England.

“I didn’t really enjoy the school environment, so learning in this way was perfect for me. I also enjoyed the opportunity to earn whilst I learnt! Apprenticeships helped build my confidence and has made me far more independent than I would have been if I had spent the last two years in a classroom.

“I would like to go on to a Foundation Degree in Business Management. Before starting the Apprenitceship I feel I would never have wanted to do a Degree, I would probably have just stopped at GCSEs”.

aDVaNceD appReNTice OF THe YeaR FiNalisT eNGiNeeRiNG aDVaNceD, leVel

Wayne Manton from Bristol

3

ticeship “Doing an Appren could is the best thing I oking have done. I am lo g my forward to furtherin er career at a custom rning base and then retu the to Rolls-Royce in Service future as a Chief Engineer” If you think that an Apprenticeship may be the right option for you then check out apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000 150 600.

The website allows you to watch videos of real apprentices in the work place and answers all the questions you may have. You can also search, view and apply for current Apprenticeship vacancies.

WWW.APPRENTICESHIPS.ORG UK // 08000 150 600

WWW.appReNTicesHips.ORG UK

11

, e f i l your e s i Energ utilise your skills

eryone’s v e n o ic p o t t o h w e n e h “Think Green” is t nd a rt o p s n ra t l, e v ra t , s s sine lips – from homes to bu be led l il w t a h t e n o ly e it n fi e leisure, the future is d rms. fi s u io c s n o c o c e d n a ly nd by environmentally frie

12

www.nwda.co.uk

,

It is for this very reason that careers in the energy and environmental technologies sector are growing at a phenomenal rate – the range of jobs available in these industries is huge, especially in England’s Northwest, which is taking the lead on climate change, energy and wider sustainable development.

Where do I start?

As with many industries there are a number of ways to get into the top jobs. The most important factor is to ensure you have good grades – especially in maths, science and technology. Taking these subjects at A-Level or equivalent will stand you in good stead of working your way up the ladder.

Apprenticeships are a great opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification, gain work experience and develop transferable skills - all while getting paid! Apprenticeships are available at several levels, including a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) or Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ).

The range of jobs available in these industries is huge; in a sector that nationally employs over 530,000 people there is no doubt that there is a career that would suit you.

Over the next 10 years the sector needs to recruit over 14,000 people within the UK to replace those that are retiring or moving onto jobs in other industries so there are plenty of opportunities at all levels.

This includes key or core skills, employment rights and responsibilities and in some cases a Technical Certificate. By the end of the programme, the mix of training undertaken ensures that you are both competent to do the job you have been training for, and you have the essential underpinning knowledge and transferable skills.

For more information on apprenticeship opportunities in energy and environmental technologies go to: www.euskills.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships

The main categories of employment are management, scientific, technical and craft, commercial and sales, and administrative/ clerical. Demand is high for skilled engineers and technicians, scientists, operatives and customer care staff in particular and for flexibility and adaptability necessary across all occupations in an ever-changing working environment.

www.euskills.co.uk

13

s e l i F O R p jOB

Many skilled people are needed to ensure the natural gas is transported safely and efficiently across the country into your house.

If you are ambitious, enthusiastic and enjoy hands on work, there are many career opportunities for you in the gas industry.

eNeRGY eFFicieNcY eNe

High energy prices have caused concern throughout the UK, and particularly in many of the energy intensive industries in the Northwest.

The days of relatively low energy prices are well and truly behind us and the need for energy efficient technologies has become ever greater.

The demand for energy efficiency products and services is on the increase and the energy efficiency sector is playing an increasing role in providing essential products and services to help control energy use.

This vital sector now employs around 10,000 people in the Northwest and the potential for growth is extensive

WasTe MaNaGeMeNT

Every year UK households throw away enough waste to fill 3.5 million double-decker buses (almost 30 million tonnes). These buses parked end to end would stretch from the UK to Australia and back!

The waste industry needs many skilled people to manage our mountains of waste. It’s our job to look after the environment and make it a better place - now and in the future. So why not choose a career where you can make our world a cleaner and greener place.

WaTeR

When you turn your tap for a glass of water or a bath, do you give a second thought to the thousands of people whose jobs make it possible?

elecTRiciTY

Modern society could not function without an electricity supply system that is both reliable and available. No electricity would mean chaos; it would bring the country to a standstill.

At the flick of a switch you can boil a kettle, work on a computer, watch TV, but have you ever stopped to think about how many skilled people working in the industry make this happen?

Many of the jobs in the electricity industry are highly skilled and are in huge demand in a wide range of engineering, science and technology based industries. There is an increasing need for skilled people to work in UK engineering and technology businesses so that the UK can compete successfully in the world economy.

The industry employs tens of thousands of people in many different jobs. It offers great opportunities to specialise and to gain qualifications. There are also excellent prospects for long term career development.

Gas

In the winter when you warm your hands on the radiator, the gas that is used to make this happen has followed a long journey.

Delivering high quality, safe drinking water will continue to be a priority for the future. Water is the key to virtually all living things, so why not choose a career that will make an important contribution to life itself.

Many of the jobs in the water industry are highly skilled and are in huge demand in a wide range of engineering, science and technology based industries. There is an increasing need for skilled people to work in UK engineering and technology businesses so that the UK can compete successfully in the world economy.

Many employment opportunities exist to ensure there is continuous supply of clean drinking water to our homes and businesses and there is a sustainable network for the disposal of waste water.

The water industry needs a vast range of people - from service pipe layers to scientists! Managing water resources; ensuring the supply treatment and distribution of water; disposing of sewage; keeping pollution to a minimum‌all requires the work of highly skilled people.

For more information on all these industries and the career options available to you check out: www.euskills.co.uk/careers and www.envirolinknorthwest.co.uk .

Many of the jobs in the gas industry are highly skilled and are in huge demand in a wide range of engineering, science and technology based industries. There is an increasing need for skilled people to work in UK engineering and technology businesses so that the UK can compete successfully in the world economy.

14

WWW.eNViROliNKNORTHWesT.cO.UK

Scottish Power Young Apprent

ice Matthew Guy

L-R Stuart Hodginson Frodsham School, Matthew Guy Frodsham School, Konnie Hug, Roy Jones, Community Manager Scottish Power

“I have really enjoyed my placement with Scottish Power and hope to gain an Apprenticeship in the industry, being presented by Konnie was like getting my own Blue Peter badge.”

Matthew Guy from Frodsham College has recently completed his Young Apprenticeship in Electrical Engineering, with Scottish Power at their Hoylake Training Centre. Matthew has been part of the Young Apprenticeship programme for the past 18 months, along with 17 other pupils. The programme consists of 50 days placement at the Hoylake Training Centre working towards a City & guilds 6893, Applying Engineering Principles

Certificate, as well as gaining qualifications, completing a number of network appreciation courses as well as off-site visits.

selecting capable, talented and enthusiastic young people who prefer to combine school studies with practical skills.

Matthew has recently been selected as Student of the Year, and was also nominated for the North West Learner Awards, sponsored by the Learning and Skills Council. Matthew successfully won a highly commended certificate, which was presented

by Konnie Hug. Matthew comments;

It is an exciting opportunity for those who want to get involved directly with the world of electricity distribution and transmission networks and to understand the complexity of how electricity is supplied to the home. It gives young people the opportunity to learn within a practical setting, as well as gaining work experience with a local employer and giving them the option of gaining a recognised qualification, together with practical skills whilst working with the host employer.

“I have really enjoyed my placement with Scottish Power and hope to gain an Apprenticeship in the industry, being presented by Konnie was like getting my own Blue Peter badge.”

The Young Apprenticeship programme is aimed specifically at 14-16 year olds, who are likely to achieve 5 GCSEs at Grade A-C, with a particular interest in science, technology and engineering. It is intended to raise sector awareness of the electricity industry by

For further information and to view case studies of real people doing real jobs in the energy and utilities industries then go to; www.euskills.co.uk/careers on this website you will also find video case studies from employers and employees in the North West.

www.apprenticeships.org.uk

15

N R U T O T G N i K O O l aGeD 18-30 aND ?

Y T i l a e R O T N i a e YOUR BUsiNess iD look no further than ’s Durham county council omic Regeneration and econ can Development team who ort provide a range of supp the services to help you on t. path to self employmen A team of coaches and advisors are on hand to offer advice, support and guidance to anyone wishing to fulfil their ambition of running their own business. Support can be given with developing business plans, marketing strategies as well as access to funding towards start up costs.

If you are ready to take on premises then the state of the art Tanfield Lea Business Centre, provides modern business floor space targeted at both new and existing businesses. Young entrepreneurs can benefit from reduced rents for the first year of occupation as well as access to tailored support and grant assistance.

The centre, which has been awarded a ‘Very Good’ BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) status, uses advances in technology to provide a greener environment for tenants with the inclusion of solar panelling and natural air ventilation.

FaciliTies aT THe ceNTRe iNclUDe: n 3 floors of modern office space including a

communal atrium with kitchen facilities n 41 office units ranging in size from over

100 to over 1000 sq ft n Fully equipped conference and meeting

rooms for hire n Manned reception providing a wide

range of office services n Telephony and Broadband connectivity n Free car parking facilities n 24 hour access to individual office units n Excellent location in close proximity to the A6706,

direct link road to Gateshead and Newcastle.

For those who are already in business and are looking to expand, there are financial incentives available to help kick start a move into larger premises.

Grants can be used to contribute towards relevant capital costs which may include overheads, marketing campaigns and improvements to ICT. *Terms and conditions apply. Contact for details

aN ON 01207 218219 OR VisiT aTiON cONTacT aNDRea McGUiG

FOR MORe iNFORM

16

TRe.cOM

WWW.TaNFielDleaBUsiNessceN

WWW.TaNFielDleaBUsiNessceNTRe.cOM

YO

YOUNG

ENTREPRENEUR?

TANFIELD LEA BUSINESS CENTRE MODERN OFFICE SPACE FOR 18-30s

Be inspired at

www.tanfieldleabusinesscentre.com

or contact Andrea McGuigan on

01207 218219

● Units available to young entrepreneurs aged 18-30 years ● Business to Business sector ● Rent free for the first 6 months with stepped rent for a further 6 months ● Ideally located near direct link roads to Newcastle and Gateshead ● Business Start Up Support ● Financial Incentives available

Terms and Conditions apply Designed by Inprint, Durham County Council: 01207 218 345

YOUNG AD 275H X 216.indd 1

11/8/09 13:34:38

BiG BOOsT FOR GeNeR Young entrepreneurs in Newcastle have received a boost for their business ideas thanks to a £3.5m business support initiative backed by funding from the european commission and Newcastle city council.

RTC North are providing *free training as part of the Newcastle Enterprise Package helping people develop business ideas and gain the skills needed for self employment. Training will be delivered in community venues across Newcastle, Council leader John Shipley said: “We will work with young people to increase levels of entrepreneurship, help those needing assistance to start up their business or social enterprise and provide support networks for existing companies.”

Using a ‘Pick and Mix’ approach RTC North will deliver a wide range of enterprise activity tailored to the needs of the individual. Sessions are fun and interactive and will develop key employability skills such as creativity, problem solving, communication and team working. As you progress with your business idea you can tap into to further training via a seamless referral process.

BELOW ARE SOME OF THE KEY TRAINING ACTIvITIES AvAILABLE: AILABLE:

n Enterprise awareness n Enterprise skills audit n Creative thinking and problem solving n Idea generation n Introduction to business/social enterprise n Decision making n Entrepreneur case studies n Mentoring support n Business planning n Financial awareness n Marketing awareness n Virtual business simulation

with “We will work young people to of increase levels ip, entrepreneursh ding help those nee start up assistance to or social their business provide enterprise and rks for support netwo nies.” existing compa

jOHN sHipleY

cOUNcil leaDeR *FREE depending on eligible post code

18

WWW.RTcNORTH.cO.UK

ple)

erprise Made Sim

(Delivered by Ent

eRaTiNG eNTeRpRise!!

mple)

iNFlUeNciNG eNTeRpRise iNF

To sustain the support for young people we are providing train the trainer workshops, they are ideal for youth workers, teachers, volunteers and others working in the youth sector. Sessions are hands on and very interactive, providing a real experience of what it is like to run a business. At the end of the session delegates will be given a tool kit of resources to be used to raise enterprise awareness with the young people they work with.

WORKiNG iN paRTNeRsHip WORK RTC North is one of ten organisations delivering the Newcastle Enterprise Package, the table below shows who they are and their key area of delivery. Anyone accessing these services will receive comprehensive support to help them gain the skills and knowledge needed to develop a business. All training is free providing you live in the Newcastle area and have an eligible post code.

Organisation

Key Services

RTC North

Best practice and idea generation

Durham Enterprise Association

Business Forums

Newcastle Education Business Partnership Enterprise Champions Enterprise Made Simple

Enterprise Exploration

Business Innovation Centre

Enterprise Support

FIN LTD

Enterprise Support Team

Business to Business

Procurement

Ouseburn Trust

Recent Graduates

SES CIC

Social Enterprise

Project North East

Undergraduate Support

cONTacT Us NOW FOR FURTHeR iNFORMaTiON:

T: 0191 5164400 E: enquiries@rtcnorth.co.uk W: www.rtcnorth-education.org.uk RTC North is a trusted delivery partner of business support, innovation and enterprise programmes on behalf of regional development agencies, the European Commission, local authorities and central government.

WWW.RTcNORTH.cO.UK

19

s p i H s e c i T N e R ReWaRDiNG app T s a e H T R O N e H T iN The Rolls-Royce North East Training Centre evolved from The Vickers Elswick Works Apprentice Training School, is situated on the famous Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne and has been in existence since the early 1900’s.

Our earliest records begin around 1919 with the awarding of the Henry Fee Memorial Trophy (now displayed in Bamburgh Castle).

Photographic evidence begins with the Rose Bowl trophy being awarded to the winner from 1959 (pictured right).

This custom carries on to this day, with trophy’s being awarded to the best performing apprentices each year.

Steeped in North East tradition, a Rolls-Royce apprenticeship offers great opportunities for young people of all backgrounds to begin their career as budding engineers.

ou!

Opportunities FotrTraYinin g centre at our North eas

We would like to invite applications to join our apprenticeship programme, starting in September 2009.

20

WHaT YOU GeT: This is an exciting opportunity for the Engineers of tomorrow, ideally suited to school leaver’s who have achieved or expect to achieve GCSE Grades of ‘C’ or higher in Mathematics, Science and English and who are less than 19 years of age on 1st September, 2009.

Rolls-Royce North East Training Centre is a major force in engineering training, achieving the highest National Vocational and Academic standards.

• First year training in our own centre to NVQ level 2.

• Further Education qualifications.

• Key Skills up to level 2.

• Excellent employment opportunities within the engineering sector.

• NVQ level 3 in your specialised field.

• Fully certificated apprenticeship.

applY TO: Rolls Royce North East Training Centre, Michell Bearings Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE15 6LL Contact Marian Morgan Telephone (0191) 2565385 Fax (0191) 2565376 Email: morgan-m@michellbearings.co.uk www.rrnetc.co.uk

WWW.RRNeTc.cO.UK

engineering apprenticeships with cHRis HODGsON

THe DaVY ROll cOMpaNY lTD.

“apprenticeships offer an excellen t way to gain both practical experience and academic qualifications whilst bein g paid a wage and i would recommend them to anyone”.

I left school in 2006 and was a little unsure of what my future would hold.

I had thought about going to college or getting a job. I remembered seeing some information on engineering apprenticeships at a careers event and thought this could be a good way of combining the two. After some research I found one of my local apprenticeship providers was Rolls-Royce North East Training Centre in Newcastle. I completed the application form and within a few days of submitting it I was invited for aptitude tests. Having passed the tests I was then given an interview and then accepted onto the program.

My training started in September ‘06 along with around 100 other apprentices. As we were all new to the training centre it was very easy to make friends, I would look forward to getting into work each morning so I could catch up with my new mates as well as learning new skills.

Once my initial health and safety training had been completed I moved through a range of sections where I was taught how to use a variety of machines as well as CAD software. This gave me a good insight into the world of engineering and helped me to decide what area I would most like to go into.

I was put forward for several interviews with some major north east companies one of which was The Davy Roll Company Limited, Gateshead, where I now work. I will spend the remainder of my apprenticeship here where I will qualify as a multi-skilled machinist and continue my education up to degree level on a day release basis.

The Davy Roll Company even pays my college fees for me. I have no doubt that without enrolling on the Rolls-Royce apprenticeship scheme I would not have had such great opportunities.

that I mely glad ticeship I am extre an appren n o p u d e decid iversity oing to un g n a th r e hands rath e a more “ m rs e ff o as it ing ch to learn on” approa more “usable” me and gives ons. qualificati

liaM alleN

FRaseR HYDRaUlic pOWeR lTD.

Initially I had planned to go to university after I finished my education at school; however I liked the concept of learning while I worked and decided that an apprenticeship was the best way forward for me. At this point I began enquiring into apprenticeship providers and found Rolls Royce North East Training Centre, which I applied for.

I was invited for aptitude tests and an interview which weren’t as daunting as they sounded, and was offered a place on the course to start in September. Before that time came, Rolls-Royce put me forward for a position at Fraser Hydraulic Power Ltd. Following an interview and a tour I was very pleased to be offered the job there.

The first day of my apprenticeship arrived and I started my initial training at the Rolls-Royce North East Training Centre. Over the next 12 months or so I covered a number of modules that would benefit my development including Basic Electrical Principles, Electrical Enclosures and Maintenance Techniques. It was very clear from the start that this was the perfect opportunity to gain access to the engineering environment.

Having finished my time at the Training Centre I now work full-time at FHP. The job is brilliant, there is always interesting projects to get involved with and I have been given opportunities to work on site and abroad. On my last trip, I travelled to Abu Dhabi in the UAE to help install and commission Linear Cable Engines. It was one of the best experiences I have had and opened my eyes to living and working abroad.

Looking back, I am extremely glad that I decided upon an apprenticeship rather than going to university as it offers me a more “hands on” approach to learning and gives me more “usable” qualifications. I am now in a position where I am about to begin a Foundation Degree and working in a successful company that is helping to nurture and train me.

My advice to anyone interested in a future in engineering would be to do as I did and apply for an apprenticeship with Rolls Royce North East Training Centre. It is an opportunity too good to miss.

WWW.RRNeTc.cO.UK

21

Launched for the third year running on 23rd March, the Port of Tyne’s photography competition, Reflect, is open to everyone in the region.

There is a cash prize of £500 for each winner in the four categories, plus £50 vouchers to the runners-up, and what sets Reflect apart from other photography competitions is the chance for winners to exhibit their winning photograph in the BALTIC in the viewing box.

In 2007, the Port of Tyne launched its Reflect Awards by asking the questions “What is the River Tyne?” “Where is it located?”

“Who uses it?” “How does it make you feel?” “When did you last photograph it?” The response was overwhelming; the number and quality of entries was phenomenal, making the judging process challenging, to say the least!

Reflect is growing in popularity year on year; it offers a fantastic conduit for creative energy and inspiration and represents the Port of Tyne’s continued involvement and commitment to the community.

Jennifer Dunn Marketing & Communications Manager says “When we first launched Reflect in 2007 we wanted to promote a real sense of creativity and vibrancy and felt that capturing the river’s essence on camera would be really interesting, and so far we’ve been very impressed with the results. We’re even more excited this year, especially with Reflectyouth.

“One of the most positive things to have emerged as a result of Reflect has been the amount of entrepreneurial activity; several of the previous entrants have been able to invest prize money in upgrading equipment, taking them from amateur to professional photographers.”

In 2008, photographers, young and old, were invited to submit images in four categories – Artistic Tyne, Historic Tyne, Maritime Tyne and Wildlife Tyne – and, again the response was unbelievable.

The judge of Reflect 2008’s Maritime Tyne, Sunderland-born Captain Ian McNaught, then Master of the QE2 and now Captain of Cunard’s latest cruise ship destined for legendary status, the Queen Victoria said: “The quality of entries is outstanding and after speaking to some of last year’s winners, the prize provides them with a great opportunity to turn their hobby into something special”.

And that’s just what David Tiernan, winner of the Artistic Tyne category did. In a recent interview, he said “Although the Port of Tyne Reflect Awards are very much in their infancy, they have already gained respect for the high quality of entries.

“Personally, they have opened a number of doors, primarily by getting my work out there, but also by providing me with a great deal of self-confidence.

“Since winning the award I managed to have one of my images chosen for The Sage Gateshead corporate Christmas card and I am in the process of selling a number of my images as greetings cards to a prestigious local arts venue.

from across the North East region, covering Northumberland, County Durham, Tyne and Wear, part of North Yorkshire and the Tees Valley.

Having first tapped into the creative pulse of the region in 2007 to find a massive heartbeat of inspired and entrepreneurial energy, the Port of Tyne is hoping for equal success in seeking out the star talent of the under-16s entering Reflectyouth, the category introduced to get children and teenagers interested in photography, and release their star talent. Mobile phone entries are accepted in the Reflectyouth category with a Reflectyouth top prize of £250.

Judging the entries is a panel made up of the region’s leading figures in business, arts and culture: Margaret Fay Chair of One North East, Godfrey Worsdale Director of BALTIC, Stella Hall Creative Director of Culture10, award winning photographer Jason Friend and Liz King, who is a committee member of the British Institute of Professional Photography and Managing Director of Visible Media.

“I have become self-employed as a photographer and I am hoping to grow.”

The Judges certainly have an arduous task ahead of them and the process just gets more difficult with each year. And if you haven’t already visited the website www.reflect-tyne.com, it is well worth taking a look; the photos entered so far are stunning and really illustrate the energy and contrast in North East England.

This year, the Port of Tyne has widened Reflect to cover the region’s people, places, rivers and environment and, with a new section for the under-16’s, Reflectyouth – entries have been winging their way

The competition closes 1st September so there is still plenty of time to start taking photos, and it doesn’t matter if you’re 8 or 80, Reflect is designed to capture the imagination.

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www.portoftyne.co.uk

. . . s a W T a H T R a e Y He

T

Jan 26

Boris Yeltsin announces that Russia will stop targeting United States cities with nuclear weapons

Feb 20

The English FA Premier League is officially named

Mar 18

Windows 3.1 is released by Microsoft

apr 12

Disneyland Paris officially opens under the name ‘’Euro Disney’’

May 16

STS-49: Space Shuttle Endeavour lands safely after a successful maiden voyage

Jun 26

Denmark beat Germany 2-0 to win the 1992 European Football Championships

Jul 25

The Summer Olympics open in Barcelona

aug 24

Hurricane Andrew hits South Florida, killing 23 people

Sep 16 Oct 1

1992

Black Wednesday: The £ is forced out of the European Exchange Rate System Cartoon Network was founded

nOv 24

Fire breaks out at Queen’s residence, Windsor Castle causing over £50m of damage

Dec 15

Legendry hip hop producer and rapper Dr Dre releases his groundbreaking solo album The Chronic

Top 10 games...

: A Link to the Past The Legend of Zelda 2 og Sonic The Hedgeh rt Ka Super Mario Wolfenstein in 3D Super Star Wars 2: 6 Golden Coins Super Mario Land Mortal Kombat Lethal Enforcers The Lost Vikings Dune II

WHO IS THIS ZELDA FELLA?

I WISH I WAS TOP! WASTE OF A WISH!

Top 10 movies...

Unforgiven Reservoir Dogs A Few Good Men Army of Darkness Glengarry Glen Ross The Crying Game Malcolm X Scent of a Woman Aladdin A League of their Own

Top 10 SongS... ton I will Always Love You – Whitney Hous r Siste ars espe Stay – Shak Rhythm is a Dancer – Snap Abba-esque EP – Erasure Please Don’t Go/Game Boy - KWS Ebeneezer Goode - Shamen Goodnight Girl – Wet Wet Wet End of the Road – Boyz II Men Ain’t No Doubt – Jimmy Nail Deeply Dippy – Right Said Fred

23

Sweetsssuccess for A busine a th i w d e rt a that st on i s i v s ’ boy l schoo

It was an idea that started as a teenager’s way of making some extra pocket money.

Today, it is a six figure business which has the potential to double its size within the next twelve months.

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By John Dean and Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

The idea for Superjam, which is based in Edinburgh, came from Fraser Doherty six years ago.

Aged fourteen at the time, he began to make SuperJams at home from his grandmother’s recipe, developing a method of producing them entirely from fruit and fruit juice, which he says makes them healthier and better tasting than regular jams.

Initially, he sold the jams door-to-door but expanded to sell them at farmers’ markets and to delicatessens.

As word spread about his creation, he started to realise its commercial potential and in March 2007, he became the youngest ever supplier to a major supermarket chain when Waitrose launched the range.

SuperJam now supplies more than 1,000 supermarkets in the UK, including not just Waitrose but Tesco, Asda Wal-Mart and Morrisons, and is working on expanding overseas.

Although he knew that he was developing something special, Fraser is surprised at how well he has done.

Now aged 20, he said:

“When I was 14, I definitely didn’t imagine that SuperJam would ever grow to the point where we supply the biggest supermarkets in the world.

“That said, it has taken a lot of small steps over the course of six years, with a huge amount of hard work and ambition, to get there.”

A major reason that hard work and ambition has been crucial is that anyone trying to create a success faces the challenges of breaking into a hugely competitive and well-established market.

Fraser said: “I want to create a worthwhile product that challenges the status quo of an industry that has been around for hundreds of years and is dominated by a few huge players.”

Underpinning his business acumen is a strong sense of community, and a desire to pay back the people who first supported his venture, not just in his native Edinburgh but further afield.

As part of that philosophy, the company invests in running ‘SuperJam Tea Parties’ for elderly people who live alone, in care homes or in sheltered housing.

SuperJam has already hosted more than 100 events across the UK, with live music, dancing and, of course, scones and SuperJam. Up to 500 guests attend each of these events and they are growing in popularity every month.

Fraser said: “The profits I make I invest in doing good in the community. Running tea parties for the elderly may one day benefit thousands of people.”

Meanwhile, the business continues to grow. SuperJam now sells more than 500,000 jars a year and employs dozens of people.

It is also exhibited in the National Museum of Scotland as an ‘Iconic Scottish Brand’, alongside Irn Bru, Tunnock’s and Baxters and Fraser was recently named ‘Global Student Entrepreneur of The Year’, the first ever winner from outside North America. Prime Minister Gordon Brown commended him over dinner at Downing Street, saying: “You have an amazing story to tell.”

Businesspeople have recognised the success as well.

Michael Simpson-Jones, of Waitrose, said: “Fraser has managed to take a product that’s regarded as a bit stuffy and old-fashioned and completely reinvent it, giving it a young and up-to-date image” and Danielle Pierce, of Tescos, said: “Fraser’s jams have injected new life into one of the world’s oldest food.“ Fraser himself has a very clear view of why his jams have been so successful and where they sit in the market place.

Asked how he has done so well in the middle of an economic downturn, he said: “SuperJam is a product that people enjoy, doesn’t cost a huge amount - £1.22 in Asda - and is perhaps a small indulgence that people can afford, even in the middle of a recession.

“It has been important to invest more in the brand in times like this, by running huge promotions. For example, we have given away more than thirty million money off coupons this year, including over three million for a completely free jar.

“This has, hopefully, encouraged people to try the products and, assuming they like them, they will continue to buy them.”

And he is not complacent, arguing that the business must develop to continue its success.

He said: “I’m working on developing new flavours and trying to get SuperJam into more supermarkets, including some in other countries.

“At the moment, we supply Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Waitrose, Ocado and hundreds of independents. The business will probably double in size this year.”

And his advice to other people setting up their own business? “Break every challenge down into small steps and have a willingness to just give things a shot.”

You can find out more about Fraser and his company on www.superjam.co.uk

www.superjam.co.uk

25

SKILLS4ME PIL TAKES OFF! Michael Hill Work Related Learning Co-ordinator Tees Valley Education Business Partnership (A4e)

This year A4e has been working on a unique programme with young people in Darlington, giving them the opportunity to develop a variety of skills and achieve an accredited qualification that will serve to outline and showcase their ability to problem solve, work with others and improve their own learning.

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www.a4e.co.uk

PILOT F!

The Skills4me programme has been a huge success and has helped a number of young people become more confident and break down barriers that would have prevented them making a positive transition from school into education, training or employment.

The programme is aimed at young people who require support to help with the transition to work, training or further education and is designed to offer activities and support to 400 young people over the next 30 months, thanks to funding from the European Social Fund and the Learning and Skills Council.

Skills4me aims to assist the young people to: n develop a range of interpersonal skills n explore personal goals n explore career paths n enhance their school curriculum n increase their knowledge of the ‘World of

Work’ n develop their employability skills n support their economic well-being n raise their achievement and improve their

self-esteem.

It is a flexible programme which will provide young people with important knowledge of IT, communication and other skills for applying for employment or training, as well as motivational activities, such as visits to outdoor activity centres.

Year 11 students from Darlington Education Village and Hummersknott School took part in the programme this year and participated in numerous activities from enterprise sessions to develop teamwork, innovation and creativity to CV development and job search workshops that would enable them to highlight and recognise their skills and abilities.

the young people the chance to develop ‘real world’ transferrable skills and take part in an innovative range of unique and fun activities.

Skills4me which is a fully funded programme was delivered by A4e facilitators within school and at the Darlington Arts Centre and Elm Ridge Methodist Church. We worked closely with Connexions in Darlington in order to assist the young people to make clear choices about what they wanted to do after leaving school and formally apply. Michael Hill who delivers the programme feels that this “worked extremely well and not only did the young people achieve 31 accredited qualifications but were also much more focused and clear about what they wanted to do after leaving school”.

The development of the young people was clear to see and there have been many success stories from young people who were at first unwilling to participate and quite negative, who developed into motivated, confident and positive young adults with distinct goals and aspirations.

Other providers who deliver the Skills4me programme in Darlington include NACRO, JHP Training, Skills Training, DISC and Include. All providers offer varying and unique ways to deliver Skills4me which serve to compliment every young persons potential.

For more information about Skills4me contact Amanda Olvanhill Tees Valley Education Business Partnership (TVEBP) Manager on (01642) 754790 or Connexions on (01325) 480055 and for information about the NEET Reduction Strategy contact Darlington Council’s 14 to 19 Advisor Lynn Kilpatrick on (01325) 388449.

The accredited qualification that A4e delivered to the young people on the programme was ASDAN’s Wider Key Skills along with the Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE). Both of these offered

www.a4e.co.uk

27

Com

cOMiNG sOON…

…THe NeW Help4TeeNs WeBsiTe connexions county Durham will be re-launching their award winning website on October 5th 2009.

The current site has been in use for over 4 years and around 12,000 young people from across County Durham visit each year to find information on: n Careers Opportunities in education,

training and work n Funding for study and money

management n Personal development options

such as volunteering n Their rights

And lots more…………

The website won the Best Youth Enterprise Award in the 2007 North East Digital Awards……….so why would we change it?

Well, it was time for a freshen up and our web designers Indigo Multimedia came up with a great style which kept the best and most recognisable bits from the old site (such as our logo and the sketch of Durham City) but gave us a cleaner, bloggier style.

We asked young people to give us their opinions and they liked the style but wanted more colour so we gave the pages colour themes and matched these to the search menu.

We’ve simplified that too, so now when you search you have sections on Connexions, Careers, Education, Training, Employment and You! Each of these is divided into information pages and articles with lots of live links so navigation around the site and to other sources of information is easier.

One new feature of the website that we are really please with is that we

will be able to stream video and flash animations, so site visitors will be able to take a virtual tour of their connexions centre and see advisers in action. Later on, we will also be able to take some frequently asked questions and give you a video answer too!

Regular W2G readers may know that Help4teens is the home of the County Durham 14-19 Prospectus, this Area Wide resource allows you to look for opportunities in education and training across the whole county. From September 2009, there will be a roll out of the online application process where you can select courses or training, contact the provider to ask questions, save them and make an online application via the prospectus.

Also accessible from Help4teens is www.getoutthere.info this is the County Durham Positive Activities website. You can visit the site to find out about places to go and things to do in their local area.

The site has loads of activities from sports and leisure to arts and culture, which you can search by activity or by date so they can find great ways to fill their time……….they can even post a message saying how good it was.

The Help for Teens website and its partners can help you: n Find out about and plan for your

future n Look at opportunities and make an

application n Find ways to fill your spare time

So visit us after our re-launch on to see what’s new!

www.help4teens.co.uk

29

?

K s R e a M Y WH

Between the other Mærsk cadets and myself, we have definitely came to the conclusion that choosing Mærsk for our cadetships was more than just a good idea. The package with Mærsk is somewhat ‘all inclusive’. From day one we’ve found Mærsk have been helpful and informative, and keen about us as cadets how we are finding things.

30

WWW.seacaReeRs.cO.UK

?

ReRs TalK TU c e l R U O Y T a H seeiNG W allY pUTs e R N O s R e p N i T TO YOU aBOU specTiVe. R e p TO N i s G N i TH

Although the thought being away from home for some people isn’t their cup of tea, especially when you live right next to a nautical college yourself, Mærsk’s decision of moving you away from your local environment also has turned out to be a fantastic high.

Meeting new people you may not have met if you were back at home with your friends is just one of them.

Between arriving here at Warsash Maritime Academy and accepting the cadetship, Mærsk have offered a lot of extras. Including and induction weekend at the Gosforth Park Marriott Hotel in Newcastle which offered the opportunity to get to know each other in advance, and more. On-top of the one I am about to describe.

Seeing what your lecturers talk to you about in person really puts things into perspective.

On Thursday the 18th of September 2008, my colleagues and I at Warsash Maritime

Academy went on a trip to see the Arthur Mærsk. The day began with a relativity short journey to Southampton Docks, Berth 207 where Arthur was docked. A short wait in security while we donned our high-viz vests and hard hats. Before long we were aboard the mini-bus to shuttle us to Arthur. This is where we all got our first ‘real’ glimpse of Arthur, and what we potentially could be working aboard in the future. We can all agree it’s an unimaginable feeling that cannot be described, knowing you will be a cadet and eventually an officer of one of these monsters that we call a ship.

shown everything, from the Monkey Island and the Bridge, to the Living Spaces and the Galley, all the way down to the Engine Room.

Unfortunately with the ship still busy loading containers the deck was too dangerous for us to venture onto, Although the ship was still busy with containers being loaded and unloaded, we could understand where things were on a ship, and what they actually looked like. Being able to see what you’re told in a lecture in person puts things into perspective.

Along side greater understanding of the responsibilities of an officer, and the best look into a life at sea you can get.

The crew were very informative; we had the ability to ask the cadets about their cadetship in general, although they were dual purpose cadets working both deck and engine. The Officer on board was also able to answer any question we asked. The combination of the informative crew and actually going onto the Arthur Mærsk itself made that day one of the most useful in our already ‘better than any-other’ cadetship, and makes the time between Warsash and Sea more unbearable with excitement.

MaRK TiFFiN HND Deck Cadet Warsash Maritime Academy

Once aboard we were met by the training officer aboard and several cadets who promptly took us to the bridge where the Master, Chief Engineer, First Mate etc. were located. There were also refreshments laid out. Whilst on the bridge we split into two groups, the group I was in was lead by the Chief Engineer and the Training Officer, along side some of the cadets. We were

n

WWW.seacaReeRs.cO.UK

31

WHaT’s THe WelsH sO, aFTeR a sUMMeR OF FUN, sUN aND NOT HaViNG TO GeT Up, iT is BacK TO scHOOl aND THe sTaRT OF aNOTHeR exciTiNG acaDeMic YeaR As you sports fans may know, the autumn is a time for some amazing rugby. The Internationals draw teams and crowds from all over the world. We thought we’d give the rugby fans some tastes of different languages which may be used on the pitch or in the crowds. From France to Fiji and Samoa to South America there will be people all over the world looking to get involved in the celebrations..or commiserations. Whatever your nationality be part of the action with our rugby guide.

all international sporting events start with an emotional sing song…..why not join in!? aRGeN

iTaliaN

Fratelli d’Italia , L’Italia s’è de sta; Dell’elmo di Sc ipio S’è cinta la te sta.

Dov’è la Vitto ria?

Le porga la ch ioma; Ché schiava di Roma Iddio la creò

32

TiNiaN

WelsH

dau yn lad fy nha Mae hen w i, annwyl i m a chantorion, dd ir e b d la Gw fri; o n enwogio lwyr, fe ry l ro w Ei g tra mad, yr rw gwladga eu collasant Tros ryddid gwaed.

Oid mo rtales! el ¡Libert ad, Lib grito sagrado ertad, L : Oid el ib ruido d e rotas ertad!

Ved en cad tro Igualda no a la noble enas: d. ¡Ya su tro abriero no dignísimo n Las pro vincias u Y los li bres de nidas del Sud l mund ! respon o den: ¡Al Gra n Pueb lo Arge Salud! ntino

saMOa

fu’a, lou sisi ia lau a m ’i la tu Samoa, fu’a, lou pale lea ; sisi ia lau a m ’i la Samoa, tu ai ; palelea ; a agiagia tu o loo u i mo Vaai i na fe a o Iesu na maliu a le a g o il a Le fa !

Samoa Oi u pule ia uu mau la , e a Samo vae lo ta fa’a faavavau. o le Atua , fe fe te ‘Aua e lotoga, O lota Sa’o , ia agiagia lau a’i ’l tu , Samoa le lea. a p u lo ’a Fu

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

sH FOR scRUM?

Here’s some rugby lingo. ever wondered how to say prop in afrikaans?

Prop Stut Pilier Pilone Pilar, Pilier Pilar Taca Prop, Rheng, Flaen Scrum half Skrumskakel Demi de mêlée Mediano di mischia Medio Melé Medio Scrum Leath-chlibirt Mewnwr

Hooker Hakker Talonneur Tallonatore Talonador Hooker Caiteoir Bachwr Fly half Losskakel Demi d’ouverture, Ouvreur Apertura, Mediano d’apertura Apertura, Medio de Apertura Apertura, Medio Apertura Eitilteoir Maswr

Flanker Flank Troisième Ligne Aile Terza (linea) ala Flanker Tercera Línea, Flanker Ala, Tercera Línea Tríú Líne Blaenasgellwr Centre Senter Centre Centro Centro In-side, Centro Lár na páirce Canolwr

Lock Slot Deuxième Ligne Seconda Linea Segunda Línea Segunda Línea Glas, Dara Líne Clo, Ail reng Wing Vleuel Ailier Ala Ala Wing Eiteoir Lán-chosantóir Cefnwr

Number eight Agtstem an Troisième ligne Centre Terza linea media, Numero 8 Tercera Línea Centro, ocho Octavo, Ocho, Tercera Línea Uimhir a hocht Wythwr English Afrikaans French Italian Spanish Spanish (South America) Irish Welsh

Routes into languages september news.

During the next school year there are a wide number of activities to get involved with. For example; European day of languages celebrations all over the country, roadshows, film events, sixth form conferences, careers with languages events, business workshops and visits, sport events, language taster lessons in a range of new

languages and much much more. Go to our website, click on events and choose your region. Join in and see just how much you can achieve with languages under your belt. Ask your teachers to log onto the Routes website (www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk) and have a look at how you can get involved.

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

33

h s i d e th s nt a gr nd Gastronomy a s rt a t s n e e t ton l o B of the day as f e h c ty i br e l e c work for ent who A Bolton catering stud urity to was plucked from obsc ’s most work for one of Britain s is renowned seafood chef uls to encouraging other hopef h help follow their dreams wit nance from Education Mainte from the ts n ra g ) A M (E e c n a w o ll A ncil (LSC).

Learning and Skills Cou 19-year-old Jordan Foster, from Farnworth, Bolton, has started work as a sous-chef at BBC Saturday Kitchen regular Mitch Tonk’s newest restaurant The Rockfish Grill in Bristol.

Jordan scooped his dream job after impressing Mitch with his commitment and skill during a two week work experience placement at his Devon restaurant The Seahorse, while studying for an NVQ Level 2 in Professional Cookery. He received £30 a week EMA to help with the costs of his studying, and is keen to encourage other students to apply for the grant.

Jordan said: “If someone had told me two years ago that I would be working for one of the biggest seafood chefs in the country, I would never have believed them. This is a dream come true for me. Gaining the EMA grant made a big difference and helped to pay for my travel, college trips and also for cookery equipment. I would urge other teenagers to look into getting an EMA. “Working with Mitch in the kitchen is a fantastic opportunity. During my work experience I even cooked for Masterchef presenter Greg Wallace.”

34

Mitch Tonks added: “You can walk into a kitchen and instantly notice the chefs who have a natural talent for cooking. Jordan was a great example of this and when he came to The Seahorse in Dartmouth he showed real commitment and motivation for the art of cooking.

“It is going to be a pleasure working with him at the RockFish Grill in Bristol in his formative years before he goes on, no doubt, to make a great name for himself as a chef in his own right”.

EMA is a grant of up to £30 a week available to 16 to 18-year-olds to help with the cost of continuing with their studies after leaving compulsory education. Students that are eligible for EMA can use their grants to help towards the costs of travel to college, text books, course materials, or any other costs related to their education.

A former finalist in the National Seafood Championships, Jordan had to overcome health problems during his studies when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

Jordan’s mother Sara Foster said: “I’m so immensely proud of Jordan. He has achieved

so much and has never had a day off college despite being diagnosed with diabetes.

Receiving the EMA grant was a massive help to him, particularly in terms of buying cooking equipment such as knives.”

Catering and hospitality tutor Marc McCrone, from Salford City College, added: “Jordan is a great success story. From start to finish he has shown great dedication and a hunger for his chosen career. Receiving the EMA grant has been crucial to him.”

If you are thinking about going back to college this year it’s time to start looking at your options. EMA could help you – to find out if you are eligible visit www.direct.gov.uk/ema or call 0800 121 8989 today.

NEW

CS D R O F E R T N CE G N I N AI R T

tre in the west end of ned a new training cen ope has CIC g inin Tra S DC rs in 2004, to facilitate g CIC opened their doo Newcastle. DCS Trainin ed learners wishing to loy es to long-term unemp mm gra pro n ctio stru con the industry. enter employment within gramme which has centre Plus New Deal pro Job This has been part of ellent success rate of past 5 years, with an exc ran successfully for the now expanded from has ent. DCS Training CIC ym plo em g erin ent nts clie ouse Industrial Est., n a new centre on Whiteh their base in Byker to ope Scotswood. on for 14 – 16 year old ilitate Alternative Provisi The new centre will fac vision. We have the pro m attend mainstrea learners who struggle to th Offending Team and Excelsior Academy, You full support of the new ked by Newcastle als rral unit). We are o bac refe pil (pu ool Sch e hop Lin tive Provision within largest provider of Alterna City Council, and are the the city. ent Programme iver an Entry to Employm The centre will also del ity Solutions, this is Trin h in conjunction wit starting from September ther training i.e. rs for employment or fur aimed at preparing learne September ‘09. from r , which DCS will offe ips esh ntic pre Ap n der Mo learners to complete to create one place for The aim of the centre is h to post 16 training oug from the age of 14 thr g inin Tra ion cat Edu ir the n Industry. DCS offer ent within the Constructio and ultimately employm inning at a Basic beg corating and Plastering Joinery, Bricklaying, De hin wit Q’s NV to full Level 2 Construction Award up e. trad c cifi each spe

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tober, and prospective be held on the 13th Oc A centre open day will are more than rested in our provision organisations who are inte port from external sup for g kin loo are always welcome to attend. We rs, or if we can help rne help us progress our lea can t tha s ion sat ani org . support your organisation and are ting local communities por sup We are committed to projects. So, nity mu com ing nag g and ma experienced at organisin or a church ring ste pla centre that needs see if you have a community and ring a us e giv not y paint wh hall that needs a coat of get the job done. how we can help you to nery l evening classes in Joi DCS also offer commercia and rses, CSCS Cards and Plastering, H&S Cou cy. tan H&S Consul website For further Info see our a full for .uk .co ing rain cst www.d prospectus.

www.dcstraining.co.uk

)

Steven Sinclair (Warehousing

“I left school after my GCSEs. My plan was to find a job but I didn’t have a lot of luck. That changed when I found out about Palmersville Training and joined the Apprenticeship programme in Warehousing. I’ve never looked back! The staff are all really helpful and treat you as an adult. I have a work placement at Asda; it’s a really good working environment and I’ve made loads of new friends!”

Anthoney Storey (Painting and Decorating) “I couldn’t wait to leave school and start work but I was unemployed for a year. It was really hard to find a job without any qualifications so I joined the citizenship programme at Palmersville Training where I had the opportunity to try out different vocational areas. I soon decided that I wanted to train as a Painter and Decorator. I’m following an Apprenticeship programme and I have a work placement with a local painting and decorating company. I feel really positive about the future! Coming to Palmersville Training has really motivated me to work hard and get on in life.“

“When I started working towards m y NVQ I didn’t feel confident but now I feel I’m doing really well. Palmersville Training has a restaurant in the centre where I can do all my training; the staff have done so much to help me and I get on really well with the other learners. We work together as a team! When I complete my NVQ level one, I want to go on to level two and eventually my ambition is to have a career in cake decorating.”

Bobbie Johnston (Beauty Therapy) “I’ve always wanted to be a Beauty Therapist and I’m learning so much from the NVQ programme. I have been well supported from the start and any help I need, I have been given by my Training Supervisors. I have learnt lots of new skills in beauty. Having a salon in the training centre means I can do treatments on clients under the supervision of my tutor.”

Arran Armstrong (Hospitality)

www.palmersvilletraining.co.uk will give you information on the wide range of vocational training areas which are available or to arrange an informal chat / visit call Michael Kirkwood on 0191 270 1133

www.palmersvilletraining.co.uk

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NEWCASTLE STUDENTS INSPIRED BY...

R E T U O S ’ T U A N O R AST ELS V A R T SPACE

By John Dean & Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

Newcastle students met an inspirational high flier in the truest sense of the word, when former NASA astronaut Dr Rhea Seddon shared her experiences of science and working in outer space.

Dr Seddon, who has spent over 700 hours in space, gave a talk to two groups of 150 students on ‘Space as Inspiration’ as part of an International Space School Educational Trust visit to the region.

Organised by the Institute of Physics and Newcastle Science City the aim of the visit was to motivate young people and help their self-belief so they realise their own potential and go for really ambitious goals.

Peter Arnold, chief executive, Newcastle Science City said: “These students will remember this day for the rest of their lives I’m sure. Space travel is the ultimate science experience and Dr Seddon’s knowledge is a fantastic inspiration to our young people. These sessions have brought 300 city students in first hand contact with someone right at the heart of world’s most prestigious and biggest science exploration projects, the human space programme. This day has shown them by studying science you literally open up a world of opportunity.”

Dr Seddon shared her experience of space travel which involved three separate missions around the earth and talked about motivation, leadership and science.

Chris Barber, director, International Space School Educational Trust said: “We wanted to bring this former astronaut to Newcastle to help spread the NASA ‘you can do it’ spirit. Sometimes students can feel great opportunities are for other people and not them. Dr Seddon is a living, walking, talking example to the students that they can anything they want, if they set their mind to it.”

Alex Brabbs Institute of Physics representative in Yorkshire said, “Space travel is one of the most exciting applications of physics. Meeting Dr Seddon will be a great opportunity for students to learn more about science and find out how studying physics can literally take you to another world.”

The students’ talk were held in the Centre for Life in Newcastle which has an extensive science and education programme.

Linda Conlon, Chief Executive at the Centre for Life said: “We’re thrilled to have been able to host today’s visit. To meet an astronaut and hear first hand of their experiences will have surely inspired many a budding scientist to follow their dreams and realize that ambition and hard work can make them a reality.”

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WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

MERCURY

VENUS

EARTH

MARS

JUPITER

JUPITER

SATURN

URANUS

NEPTUNE

“To meet an astronaut and hear first hand of their experiences will have surely inspired many a budding scientist to follow their dreams”

WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

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Q and A with Rhea Seddon – NASA Astronaut

How long is the training procedure to become an astronaut?

Between 12 and 24 months for general training and another 12-24 months for the specific field in which you want to work in

What have you learned from your experience in space?

Being qualified as a medical doctor, I learned many things regarding the human body and how it reacts to all aspects of space travel. Also being able to view the Earth from space, you realise how precious the environment is and how we should all to our best to protect it

Where do you see the future for Space Exploration?

The future is very positive, with NASA being involved in with sending man back to the moon and eventually to Mars, the will to travel in space has always been there, it is only the issue of funding as always that has been the problem

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What opportunities does Space offer for our young people?

Although there are limited opportunities for actual astronauts, related job opportunities exist from designers to doctors to scientists, as always education is the key.

Were your family supportive with your desire to become an astronaut?

My husband is also an astronaut – so there was mutual respect and encouragement, family support is always a good in the pursuit of your goals

What advice can you give our young people...

Education – remember every exciting job in the world requires an education. You only have a certain amount of days on the earth. Find something that you are passionate about and pursue it

WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

“some form of life exists, but being able to make contact over vast time frame is another question” Do you think there is any other form of life out there?

NASA certainly thinks so - with the agency SETI – Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence, although with limited funding it has the potential to change the world as we know it.

As for me with all the stars and solar systems we are aware of it is more than possible that some form of life exists, but being able to make contact over vast time frame is another question

Selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA in January 1978, Dr. Seddon became an astronaut in August 1979. A three-flight veteran with over 722 hours in space, Dr. Seddon was a mission specialist on STS51D (1985) and STS-40 (1991), and was the payload commander on STS-58 (1993). In September 1996, she was detailed by NASA to Vanderbilt University Medical School in Nashville, Tennessee. She assisted in the preparation of cardiovascular experiments which flew aboard Space Shuttle Columbia on the Neurolab Spacelab flight in April 1998. Dr. Seddon retired from NASA in November 1997. She is now the assistant Chief Medical Officer of the Vanderbilt Medical Group in Nashville, Tennessee.

By John Dean & Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

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: D e K c O H s e cUlTUR One thousand North West pupils get a lesson in community languages

traditional h School, Romiley, try out Pupils from Werneth Hig bs. cher, Tracy Gib Arabic dancing with tea Over the past few months, Routes into Languages North West have been running cultural Language Enrichment Events for pupils across the region. Taking place at the campuses of the five partner universities involved in the COLT project – Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester, University of Salford, University of Bolton and UCLAN – the events were a huge success, reaching nearly 1,000 North West pupils and raising the profile of community languages.

As well as tasters in community languages, pupils were able to take part in a range of cultural activities such as Arabic dancing, Italian mask-making and opera singing, Urdu calligraphy and Chinese water painting and rice dough modelling. A day of many firsts for most pupils, for some it certainly won’t be the last.

Pupils from All Hallows R.C . High School, Pre ston, try on traditi onal Pakistani cl othing.

“I really enjoyed the day learning new cultures. languages and experiencing other others to This trip has inspired me and many take languages to a further level.” elle cROpleY

Irlam and Cadishead Community High

“My Favourite part of the day was the multi cultural market because it gave me a chance to find out about other cultures, about the world they live in and learn some of their lang uage.”

HaYleY KHaN

Bispham High School, Blackpool.

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School, Manchester.

Routes into Languages is a multi-million government funded project designed to inspire pupils across the country to learn languages at school, college and university. The North West consortium is a project called COLT (Community and Lesser Taught Languages) and works to raise the status of the community languages of Arabic, Urdu, Mandarin Chinese and Italian across the North West as well as promoting all languages more generally.

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

D:

ROUTes NW sTUDeNT aMBassaDORs Routes NW have a number of Student Ambassadors waiting to come into your school. They can assist in your language lessons, help you practice your language or teach you a new language, such as Italian or Arabic. If you would like a student to come and visit your school, ask your teacher to get in touch with us.

Name: Elena Age: 25 From: Italy Languages spoken: Italian, English and French

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO LEARN LANGUAGES? I loved the idea of being able to help people communicate with each other, connecting with different cultures, understanding different habits and traditions, sharing ideas and thoughts with virtually anybody. I firmly believe that learning languages is an extremely enriching, rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Name: Daniel Clayton Age: 24 From: Pontefract, West Yorkshire Languages spoken: French, Italian, Egyptian, Chinese, Arabic, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO LEARN LANGUAGES? I want to break the world record for being able to speak the most languages in the world and become the most successful hyperpolyglot (59+ languages).

About You: I have just graduated from The University of Manchester with a degree in Arabic Studies. As part of my course I spent a year in Alexandria, Egypt. It took a lot of adapting to a new culture and lifestyle, but you soon get used to it, and learn how to successfully get by without having to pay tourist prices all the time! I travelled to some of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.

DO YOU FIND LANGUAGES USEFUL, HOW?

WOUlD YOU liKe TO Re Gcses BY GOiNG TO TH Vise FOR YOUR e ciNeMa? In an exciting new partnersh ip with Corner into Language house Cinema, s NW are delig Routes hted to announ Manchester. W ce a new projec e are teaming t in up with the po a number of GC pular venue to SE Study Sess run ions in Arabic Chinese and Ita , Urdu, Manda lian. rin The Projector sessions involve a viewing of a the target lang famous film in uage before un dertaking activ the film and la ities based arou nguage. This pr nd oject not only your language helps you to re skills, it gives vise you an invaluab aspects and fil le insight to cu m industry of ltural the country. Re so much fun! vision has neve r been

To find out m ore about this exciting projec visit: www.cor t please nerhouse.org/p rojector

FORTHcOMiNG eVeNTs as we enter the third year of the project, Routes into languages North West is showing no signs of abating in its relentless mission to bring community languages to the masses.

I love using my languages when travelling abroad; it is so much less hassle if you can speak the local language, instead of having to rely on the person you’re trying to communicate with knowing English. It is really rewarding being able to express yourself in different languages.

2009/10 promises to be a bigger and busier year than ever. With a wider range of school events planned along with the ever popular Language Enrichment Events doubling, we are offering more than ever before.

Name: Rosanna Lewis Age: 22 From: I am British but I grew up in France.

Languages spoken: French, Spanish and Italian

If you are interested in attending any of the events, ask your teachers to email us at routes@mmu.ac.uk to find out more.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO LEARN LANGUAGES?

Careers with Languages Evening Thursday 1st October 2009

I wanted to develop my knowledge of foreign culture and become fluent in four languages to communicate and travel.

Language Enrichment Events for Year 9 pupils: Various dates in November 2009 and January 2010

About you: I have just graduated from the University of Manchester with a Masters in Modern Languages (Spanish and Italian). For my year abroad I went to Perugia, Italy on an Erasmus year at the UniversitĂ degli studi di Perugia. My year in Italy was the best year of my life. I made a lot of friends and learnt a lot about different cultures and also the local culture.

Language Enrichment Events for Year 8 pupils: Summer 2010

DO YOU FIND LANGUAGES USEFUL, HOW? I have lots of foreign friends from all over the world and communicate with them in the language we have in common. I also like to travel and be able to speak the language of that country. There are lots of jobs that require a language but they are also useful on a personal level, as they make you a more open-minded and an out-going person.

Languages NoW! event for Year 9 pupils: 7th January 2010 A Level day for community language learners: Saturday 20th March 2010 For more information about these or our future events, please go to www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk/northwest

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

43

It’s a small What is the Nanotechnology Revolution?

Modelling at the nano-scale

The world of nanotechnology encompasses many different scientific disciplines and markets from biomedical devices to food packaging and computer circuitry to reinforced plastics. Think of a market, and there’s an application for nanotechnology in there. In many cases, the development of the technology is at the cutting edge of science with many UK companies being at the forefront of these developments, but there is also a wealth of other development opportunities deep routed in the heart of UK industry going into everyday products we use around the home on a day-today basis. I hope this article can give you an insight into what nanotechnology is and how it will help develop the next technological revolution, and most importantly, how you could play a role in its future.

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A journalist for a highly regarded US magazine famously wrote that in the future: “Computers may weigh no more than 1.5 tons.” Back then, in 1949, that would have been a wildly optimistic prediction.

In fairness, he’d correctly identified the impact of miniaturisation. He’d just badly misjudged its sheer pace. Businesses today should be careful not to make that same mistake by underestimating the paradigm shift that will be caused by nanotechnologies.

However, it would be a grave error to simply regard nanomaterials (materials with particle size of between 1 and 100 nanometres or nm) as the next stage in miniaturisation. Of course, when you’re considering nano-scale engineering it’s impossible to avoid thinking about size - or rather lack of it. Human brains don’t work well when they try to conceive of something that is a million times smaller than a pinhead, so don’t waste time trying.

www.nanocentral.eu

l WORlD! Nanotechnology increases hard drive capacity

Instead, we should free up our minds to do what they’re best at: being creative. This is when the really fascinating aspects of nanomaterials kick in. Once you’re ‘through the looking glass’ into the nanoworld, physical properties you always took for granted are regularly turned upside down.

All hype aside, the capability to construct materials at the atomic and molecular scale will cause even more widespread change to our lives than the silicon chip. Already hundreds of products are on sale which feature nanomaterials. From make-up to memory sticks — and that’s just for starters.

Nanomaterials can display all kinds of unusual physical, electrical, chemical or optical characteristics. Iron eventually stops being magnetic, super-white Titanium Dioxide becomes transparent, ceramics can be made to stretch like chewing gum - the list is endless. In short, nanotechnology promises to provide designers and engineers with custom-made materials with remarkable even unique properties.

The benefits don’t end there. Yet another intriguing property of nanomaterials is that because they’re made up of such small particles, they have a much greater surfaceto-volume ratio than their macro-sized cousins. So what? You might think. Well, because most reactions take place on the surface of a material, it follows that increasing the surface area will make for a more intense and/or effective reaction, so a little nanomaterial goes a very long and productive way.

A popular misconception with nanomaterials is that they’re only for use in state-of-the-art, high cost products made by multi-national companies. Whilst that’s true in some cases, it’s by no mean the norm and it shouldn’t put off small and medium sized manufacturers from entering into the nanoworld.

NanoCentral was established in 2006 by the UK Government to help businesses to do precisely that - by acting as a guide to anyone who is interested in exploring the possible benefits of incorporating nanotechnologies into new or existing products. Stephen Cash, NanoCentral’s CEO makes no apologies - he’s a man on a mission. He and his team are passionate about convincing manufacturers to at least explore the unique opportunities that nanomaterials offer. “We can connect companies of whatever size - large or small, with formidable, nation-wide network of experts with whom they can explore what nanomaterials could do for them and advise them on Health, Safety and Environmental issues via the Institute of Occupational Medicine,” he said.

“Here in the UK we’re very good at science, but not so good at applying the technologies it creates to the marketplace,” he added.

“Sadly for UK industry, huge resources are being poured into nanomaterials research and their practical applications by its competitors overseas. If we don’t take the safe, commercialisation of nanomaterials extremely seriously, we’ll suffer serious financial consequences.”

Nanomaterials have critical applications in key challenges facing the developing and developed worlds alike: clean water, clean energy and healthcare. Simple, inexpensive filters made with nanomaterials can be used to purify filthy water and make it drinkable without the need for costly and complex processing units. Nanomaterial based solar panels will be able to generate affordable, nonpolluting electricity and also help to create another green energy source: thermoelectricity in which changes in temperature can be used to create electricity and viceversa.

Drug performance and delivery can be made infinitely more precise and effective with nanomaterials, not simply because they can be made so much more accurately, but by making use of unique characteristics such as at the nanoscale of around 10 nanometres, some chemicals which are normally insoluble in water, become soluble in the bloodstream, enabling them to be used for the first time.

Cheap sensors can be made to detect a range of chemicals. These can be embedded into a range of products including clinical dressings which will warn medical staff if wounds are becoming infected.

Against this promise of enormous benefits, a cautionary note should be sounded. In the ‘through the looking glass world’ of nanotechnology we’re in uncharted territory.

We need to examine Safety,

www.nanocentral.eu

45

Gecko inspired surgical bandage

Characterisation of nanotechnology

Nanospheres block the pain of sensitive teeth

Health and Environmental issues. However, we shouldn’t become so paralysed by caution that we strangle these emerging sciences with red tape either. This exploration of innerspace may yet prove to be our best bet in solving some of the most pressing and fundamental, lifethreatening issues facing us all.

Although it is very likely that most of the benefits to be gained from nanomaterials and nanotechnology will be gained in the future, it is already helping society in many different, wide ranging, ways. Here’s a taste of some of the areas where nanotechnology is helping us now.

ELECTRONICS This is an area often associated with nanotechnology. Modern computer processing units are using increasingly smaller transistor gate technology, currently at 45nm in size. Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) is the integration of mechanical elements, sensors, actuators, and electronics on a common silicon substrate. MEMS promises to make possible the realization of complete systems-on-a-chip which will revolutionise areas such as medical sensing. Computer hard drive technology has benefitted from nanomaterials, the storage capacity of the disks have been improved radically by engineering the magnetic storage layers.

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NANOPARTICLES

TExTILES

Nanoparticles are sized below the wavelength of visible light, thus effectively invisible but with the ability to impart their properties.

Quantum dots are invisible until ‘lit up’ by ultraviolet light, and can even be made to exhibit a range of colours, depending on their composition and/or size. These particles are set to revolutionise crime prevention, where goods can be invisibly ‘tagged’, preventing counterfeiting; stolen goods can be traced by their invisible ‘bar code’. Nanopareticles can be added to diesel fuel to improve the combustion efficiency in the engine giving you greater fuel efficience and less harmful emmissions.

The textile industry has been one of the first to adopt nanotechnology on an industry wide scale. Socks and leisurewear incorporating silver nanoparticles to combat odour through killing bacteria, and wound dressings which speed up the healing process are already common in the marketplace. Self-cleaning and stain repellant fabrics containing nanomaterials are widely available. Current research is looking into nanoelectronic devices embedded into fabrics, these can be used for health monitoring, power generation and storage.

MEDICAL APPLICATIONS Nanotechnology is leading to faster diagnosis, often with a test results taking several days or even weeks to arrive. Nanotechnology based tests can be built into a single, portable device that only requires tiny quantities of sample. These devicesare known as ‘lab-ona-chip’, and samples can be processed and analysed so rapidly that the results can be read out almost instantaneously. Quantum dots can be used for precise high-contrast imaging for cancer diagnosis, and ultimately treatments carried as nano-sized active ingredients can be produced which will seek out and destroy cancer cells within the body leading to less side effects than traditional chemotherapies.

SCENTS AND FLAvOURS Using encapsulation and delayed delivery nano-technologies, the dosage of active ingredients used in everyday household products can be carefully and precisely controlled. For example, the scent of a fabric conditioner can be released slowly over time making the garment seem fresher for longer.

The slow release of enzymes in washing machines and dishwashers can help reduce waste and water use.

AUTOMOTIvE INDUSTRY A long-time user of nanotechnologies is the automotive industry. Improved lubricants, composite materials for engines and body materials, improved catalysts, self cleaning glass and scratch resistant paints and coatings are all technologies made possible by the incorporation of nanomaterials into components, and are in wide-spread use

www.nanocentral.eu

WHERE TO GO FROM HERE? These are just a few of the many areas where the use of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies are happening now, and where massive jumps are being made in current research.

Chemical formation of nanoparticles

now. New technologies currently being advanced due to nanomaterials used in their construction are fuel cells for clean energy generation.

FOOD AND DRINK Although not new to food companies, working at the nanoscale has opened up many new and exciting areas of possibilities.

Nutraceuticals and other functional foods have seen an exponential rise in their use over recent years. Nanoscale compounds can offer health benefits, impart new physical and sensory effects in food. Another area important to food is in packaging, nanomaterials can be used to extract toxins, inks that change colour as food degrades and to generate greater barrier properties.

The UK Government takes the development and subsequent use of nano-enabled products very seriously with the development Manufacturing in a clean-room environment of the MNT (micro and nano technology) network, which is 23 funded facilities situated right across the UK. These facilities have been setup to assist UK businesses achieve A background in science is usually the development and use of nano-enabled required for to embark on a career based products. on nanoscience and nanotechnology.

Traditionally a background in chemistry, Scientists are now actively looking at how physics, biology or engineering has nature ‘works’ to enable solutions to problems been used as the starting point. There in the ‘non-living’ world. For example, are now many postgraduate courses in examining how marine organisms build nanotechnology which build upon the the strength into their shells has has shown good grounding offered in the traditional how to engineer new tough, lightweight sciences. Many science based degree materials for cars; studying the sytructure of courses offer modules in nanotechnology. a leaf can lead to techniques for developing Careers can take a traditional science self cleaning surfaces and efficient energy route, but there are also critical roles in the generation. These ideas are all leading to development and use of characterisation what is termed ‘disruptive’ solutions, when equipment for example. the old ways of making things are completely overtaken I hope this has given you some insight into and discarded. the ‘small-world’ of nanotechnology and how

THE ENvIRONMENT Not only can nanotechnology improve the way that energy can be produced, but also in the way that it can be stored with improved battery and supercapacitor technologies. Anti-corrosion layers containing nanoscaled materials are helping to eliviate the use of toxic chemicals such as chromium and cadmium. One very important area for nanomaterials is in water remediation; coatings containing anti-bacterials are being used in water storage bottles to kill deadly bacteria in drinking water.

it is poised to revolutionise future technology developments around the world.

If you want to know more about nanotechnology or how to start a career in a nanotechnology area please contact Steve Devine at NanoCentral on +44 (0) 1642 442 464 or at: NanoCentral at The Centre for Process Innovation Wilton Centre Wilton Redcar TS10 4RF

Clothes to power handheld devices

www.nanocentral.eu

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NORTH TYNesiDe YOUNG appR dents tu s s rt a g in rm o rf e p e pprentic North Tyneside Young a eir own play th t u o d te c a d n a d e h p gra planned, wrote, choreo ow was h s re ti n e e Th . s ld ie h s , North ms te at the saville exchange ys s g n ti h g li d n a d n u o even the s all their own work with lves. e s m e th y b d te ra e p o d designed an

Y D th B To make sure everything ran smoothly and to high standards, Larry Gent of North Tyneside EBP enlisted the help of Monkfish Productions Managing Director, Claire Morgan. The first thing Claire did was to contract the students to the company as legitimate employees and set them to work. The work experience was intensive and highly involved with every student working hard and to industry standards.

Quote from Claire “ It was important for us to feel that the students belonged to the company. It ensured that we got the best out of them and the end result showed that their comittment to my company and the job we were faced with, showed in the final production. The show was a great success.

We have some very creative talent in the North East and it was great to see those individuals shine.”

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“We have some very creative talent in the North East and it was great to see those individuals shine” claiRe MORGaN

NG DiRecTOR MONKFisH pRODUcTiONs MaNaGi

www.northtyneside.gov.uk

ppReNTices HaRD aT WORK

Young apprentice art a nd Design students carrie d out their work experience a t Baltic, Gateshead quay s.

They worked with staff and artists on a projec t called B.atwork resources, wh ich is a project to inform young people about what services the Baltic offers and what job roles there are within the organisat ion. The ideas that the students came up with are to be develo ped by Baltic design sta ff. One of their ideas was to create a ‘fortune teller’ that tea chers and students can download and make up.

“it’s a unique and amusing way of getting information across. We had great fun designing and making them” laRRY GeNT

NORTH TYNesiDe eBp.

www.northtyneside.gov.uk

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So you want to be the next J K Rowling?

OK, so there are you sitting at your laptop convinced that you are the best writer the world has ever seen. Move over J K Rowling, you’re the one to watch. How could the publishers turn you down? But hang on a minute, there’s a lot of talented young writers out there and they all feel the same. How do you know that you have got it right?

Well, Way2Go has drawn up a checklist to help you answer some of the burning questions before you send your masterpiece off to take its chances in the wide world.

Have you taken note of the rules of writing? n

n

n

n

Do not write for yourself, always write for the reader. Can the reader understand your story?

Be disciplined - you may wish to pack lots of information in but does the reader need it? Does it really matter that your character has small feet or once saw Take That in concert? If it does, keep it in, if it does not chop it out.

Or what if you have not put enough information in - you can imagine where a scene is set but have you given the reader the information they need? You may have drawn a character, can your readers see them?

Be brutal - if you have overwritten, chop out the fat.

If you have written a short story, bear in mind: n

n

n

The best stories are the ones that follow a fairly narrow subject line: too many plotlines and you end up with a novel.

Don’t have too many characters. Each new character will bring a new dimension to the story, and too many diverse dimensions dilute the theme. Have only enough characters to effectively tell the story.

If you have created a cast of thousands, send them packing. Better still, use them in your next story instead.

Make every word count. If a word is not helping to put across the story, delete it.

By John Dean & Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

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DON’T MISS...

If you have written a novel, ask yourself: n n n

n

Is the story strong enough to sustain all those pages?

Are there lots of sub-plots to keep the reader entertained?

Has anyone else written it already? Check the bookshops if you are not sure.

Before you start writing, write a plan of the story chapter by chapter - it’s called the synopsis and is invaluable in getting your thoughts in order.

Beginning your story However you start your story, the beginning should have The Question, something that hooks your reader. You need to grab them from those first lines.

One way do to this is intrigue the reader. For instance, “Bill Bloggs was dead” may give the end away but the readers wants to find out why he died and if he deserved it.

The dropped introduction can also work: “Betty was a pleasant woman. She would do anything for anyone. Everyone liked old Betty. A true angel, they used to say. Which was why it was such a shock when she was killed by a Mafia hitman.”

Publishers and short story judges have hundreds, if not thousands, of manuscripts to read - make sure yours grabs them by the throat from the beginning and does not let them go.

The middle of the story The middle is there to keep the story going, fill in gaps, create tension and allow the story to develop but it should only be as long as is needed, not overwritten or underwritten. If you find yourselves padding things out, reach for that trusty delete button.

The end of the story There are all sorts of ways of ending a story but the most popular is some kind of twist, something that startles the reader, or perhaps makes sense of the rest of the story. On the other hand, you may go for a poignant ending, injecting a little emotion.

Either of these is fine: the really important thing is that you do it well.

Sense of place It is crucial that your reader can see where your story happens.

You have choices: do you write rich and vivid prose to paint a word picture or do you keep it minimalist - describe a tree in a park and we all see a different tree and a different park? Perhaps we only need to say it is a tree in a park?

When you do describe the setting, seek out the following: n Physical characteristics - what does it look like, any quirks which bring it to life? n Use your reader’s senses - what does the place smell, taste, sounds like? n What does it feel like to be there?

If you’re struggling, visit a place like the one you want to write about and take notes.

PART 2 IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF W2G

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sTOp THiNKiNG YOU caN’T… …sTaRT BelieViNG YOU caN

WHaT is sHiRe? a c N a l R e aiMHiGH e aiMHiGHeR laNcasHiR al is paRT OF THe NaTiON Me, aiMHiGHeR pROGRaM WHicH eNcOURaGes U YOUNG peOple liKe YO WiTH pOTeNTial WHO MiGHT NOT NORMallY cONsiDeR HiGHeR eDUcaTiON (He) TO ‘aiM HiGHeR’.

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i DON’T KNOW eNOUGH aBOUT BOUT HiGHeR HiGHeR eDUcaTiON Higher education offers a divers range of courses, such as first degrees, Higher National Diplomas or Foundation Degrees, amongst others. Many course take place at universities but plenty are also taught at higher education colleges, specialist art institutions and agricultural colleges. Generally, you need to continue your studies for another two years after Year 11 to be able to enter higher education. Qualifications for entry include AS/A2 levels, Advanced Diplomas, NVQ Level 3… but there are other ways to do it.

Unlike school, you’re at university or college because you want to be, learning more about a subject or job you’re really into. You’ll have more control over how and when you study - though it’s up to you to make the most of it.

You’ll find higher education challenging - getting used to new ways of learning and thinking may take time - but you’ll have a lot of fun along the way. You’ll also have lots of opportunities to experience new things and meet new people.

NONe OF MY MaTes aRe THiNKiNG aBOUT GOiNG ON TO UNi, WHY sHOUlD i?

Bear in mind that 94% of students agree that university is a good investment (according to a Unite/TNS Student Experience Report 2007). This isn’t about your mates; this is about you and your future. “More than seven out of ten young people reckon they’re likely to go to uni – so don’t be one of those that miss out.”

(Sutton Trust survey 2007)

www.aimhigher.ac.uk/lancashire

T… aN

aReN’T THe cOURses YOU caN TaKe BORiNG? Slight shock for you: There are 50,000 courses to choose from! So there has to be a few in that lot you find interesting. You might want to think about a subject from school that you’re good at or enjoy, like French, Biology or History. Or you might choose a new subject that you’re interested in or a course that is geared towards a specific career that offers on-the-job training/placements. For example, you can study Journalism instead of English, Computer Game Design instead of IT, or Marine Biology instead of Science, Accountancy rather than Maths. Well, it all depends what you’re into!

Here are some examples of different courses... n Business Studies n Astronomy n Health and Social Care n Computer Games Technology n Manufacturing n Leisure and Tourism n Sports Management n Maths n Performing Arts n English n Paramedics n Media n Forensic Science n History … there are lots more!

Further information can be found on your local Universities’ websitesUniversity of Central Lancashire - www.uclan.ac.uk University of Cumbria - www.cumbria.ac.uk Edge Hill University - www.edgehill.ac.uk Lancaster University - www.lancs.ac.uk

cHOOsiNG WHicH sUBjecTs TO sTUDY aT scHOOl There are some subjects so important that everyone has to take them, but you’ll still have lots of choices. Courses are taught in different ways, and it may be that one type suits you more than others.

Depending on what’s available at your school, you may also be able to do work-related courses like Young Apprenticeships or courses in Key Skills for English and Mathematics. Most schools and colleges will also be offering new Diploma qualifications for 14 to 19 year olds in a range of subject areas.

Have a look at opportunities for 14-19 yr olds in Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool at www.steps4me.co.uk … the choice is amazing.

WHeRe caN YOU GeT Help aND aDVice?

The choices are yours, but most people look for advice on important decisions. There’s plenty available, but you should do as much as you can yourself to research all the options.

Parents, carers, family and friends probably know you best, so talking to them can help you work out what might suit you.

If you’re planning to work towards a particular career or college course, don’t be put off just because it means taking a different direction from friends or family members.

lOTs OF peOple aT scHOOl/cOlleGe caN Help: n Subject teachers know exactly what studying a subject in school/

college involves, and can advise whether it’s right for you. n careers coordinators can tell you which subjects and qualifications

BUT i’M NO GOOD aT aNYTHiNG! If you feel like a failure don’t write yourself off. Find something to inspire you. What do you love doing? You might not automatically think it’s worthwhile but our bet is you can turn your passion into a course and career. For instance… you like playing video games = software designer you’re a sci-fi addict = special effects designer/film production you’re into shopping = trend spotter or stylist you’re always interested in what makes people tick = counsellor.

Go to www.uni4me.com …you can find lots more info & ideas there

GeTTiNG MORe iNFORMaTiON ON YOUR OpTiONs! There’s a huge variety of higher education courses on offer, with lots of different study options. Aimhigher can help you explore what’s available and find the one that’s just right for you, whatever your age or circumstances at www.aimhigher.ac.uk.

As well as advice on choosing a course, in the ‘University and higher education’ section you’ll find information on: n what higher education can do for you - and what student life is like n flexible ways to study - including part-time courses that let you work while you’re learning n the different ways of getting into higher education - whether you’re expecting to get A levels or other qualifications like NVQs or a BTEC - and information on Access to Higher Education courses for people without formal qualifications. n details of the financial support available.

are useful for particular careers. n The special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO) can arrange

support if you have a disability or learning difficulty which affects your studies. n A volunteer or learning mentor can help with any problems getting in the way of your learning – ask if there’s one at your school

THiNKiNG aBOUT GOiNG iNTO HiGHeR eDUcaTiON, WaNT TO KNOW MORe aBOUT THe DiFFeReNT ROUTes TO GeT THeRe? Download the relevant Aimhigher guide “Don’t stop doing what you love: Information about HE for pre-GCSE students” [PRE1609] from http://dius.gov.uk/~/media/ec_group/PRE1609 “Your Future, Your Choice: post-16 guide to HE” [16PLUS09] from http://dius.gov.uk/~/media/ec_group/16PLUS09 or phone 0845 602 8032 A full list of Aimhigher resources can be found at http://bis.ecgroup. net/Publications/HigherEducation/AimhigherResources.aspx

FOR MORe iNFORMaTiON ON aiMHiGHeR lOG ONTO: www.aimhigher.ac.uk www.aimhigher.ac.uk/lancashire Remember … STOP thinking you can’t …

START BELIEVING you can!

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DiscOVeR caReeR Opp iN Oil aND Gas

as a multi-billion pound global industry, oil and gas relies on highcalibre technical and business expertise to operate successfully. if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career the energy sector offers a range of onshore and offshore opportunities.

These vary from the hands-on disciplines of engineering and geosciences to the business and commercial areas like marketing, finance and law.

Approximately 400,000 people work across the UK industry and enjoy the rewards it offers including the chance to travel the world. Starting salaries range from ÂŁ25,000 - ÂŁ45,000 depending on your qualifications and discipline; increasing as you develop in your chosen career.

If you have an interest in engineering, science or business you could play a key role in the following areas:

DiscOVeR iT Exploration is the search for hydrocarbon deposits. Activities include conducting seismic surveys and analysing data to create geological models of reservoirs.

Wells can then be planned and drilled ready for extraction.

Opportunities exist for geologists, geophysicists, petrophysicists, surveyors and those interested in mathematics, engineering and computer sciences.

GeTTiNG iT OUT: Once found, oil and gas needs to be extracted. This involves monitoring oilfield developments, drilling for oil, designing and maintaining the offshore facilities and pipeline maintenance.

Opportunities exist for engineers from a range of technical backgrounds including mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, instrument and control and process engineering.

TRaNsFORMiNG iT: Crude oil and natural gas in their raw state have limited uses, their value lies in what is created from them. Once extracted, they are processed into products like petrol, diesel and bitumen. Activities include chemical processing, process plant design and maintenance, project management and product development.

Opportunities exist for chemists and engineers from various disciplines including chemical/process, mechanical and instrument control and electrical engineering.

ReseaRcH & DeVelOpMeNT:

There are lots of different jobs in oil and gas

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The future of this dynamic and constantly-evolving industry relies on innovation, technical excellence and business acumen and rewards inventive thinking. Companies are investing heavily in new products (e.g. wind and wave power), new technologies (e.g. subsea), to supplement traditional sources but are also exploring the possibilities of adapting and transferring existing knowledge to different problems (e.g. carbon capture and storage). Many careers in oil and gas involve designing and applying state of the art technology to meet our increasing energy demands in a safe and environmentally friendly way. There are career opportunities across all disciplines but those with a science or engineering related MSc or PHD are highly sought after.

WWW.OpiTO.cOM

ppORTUNiTies

Innovative technology is used to locate and survey oil and gas reserves

MaKiNG iT cOMMeRcial: No organisation can be successful unless it has the right people helping to make it run effectively. There are many commercial career opportunities including finance, trading, human resources, IT, sales and marketing, supply and logistics, and law.

Whether you are leaving school at sixteen, pursuing an apprenticeship, taking A-levels, Highers or other qualifications, or hoping to go on to university, oil and gas has a career for your future. Find your route in below:

Choosing the right subjects and studying hard will help put you on the road to success, but there are other skills you can also be working on which will help make you an attractive proposition for potential employers.

As well as needing the right academic qualifications, developing the skills used in the everyday workplace is also important.

Good oral and interpersonal communication is vital to help you work well with others. Improve your technique by getting more involved in group work at school or have a go at public speaking.

Practice your writing skills by preparing reports, letter and emails and familiarize yourself with computer programmes such as Word, Excel and Powerpoint.

Demonstrate that you can organise your workload and manage your time efficiently by making a record of what should be doing and when – write down what is expected of you for coursework or assignments and learn to set and work to deadlines.

To help encourage young people to explore the world of oil and gas, OPITO – The Oil & Gas Academy, the industry’s focal point for skills, runs a number of initiatives.

Their careers site www.oilandgas4u.com lets you discover what it is like to work in the industry, with video diaries of people of all ages doing different jobs. You can learn about the different countries you could travel to, what it’s like to live on an offshore oil platform and work for a major oil company.

To find out more visit: www.oilandgas4u.com... It’s your future!

WWW.OpiTO.cOM

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K O O c 2 T Me

to cook it!... ve lo e w , so e or m en ev d an od...

Here at W2G we love our nfoand pull on that old oven glove. it’s... so tie on that apro

cheap chicken curry iNGReDieNTs n n n n n n n n n n

2 chicken breast 1 onion 10 mushrooms 1 clove of garlic 2 spoons of balti paste splash of olive oil mug of vegetable/chicken stock salt splash of cream(long-life is great) 1 bounty bar

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Dice the chicken into mouth size pieces Heat up the olive oil in a saucepan Part cook the chicken Dice up the onion and mushrooms, then add to the chicken and cook for a further 5 minutes Add the balti paste, garlic, salt and bind the ingredients Add the stock, simmer and reduce heat for 10 minutes Chop the chocolate off the Bounty Bar Eat all the chocolate!

Add the chopped up Bounty Bar, cream and taste

serves:

4

TiMe: 25 MiNs cOsT: 75-80p a HeaD MORe exciTiNG Recipe’s FROM MaRTY THe MiT NexT TiMe!!!

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www.mysqa.info

! a q s H T i W eNce HiGHeR NaTiONal ceRTiFicaTes aND DiplOMas (HNcs aND HNDs)

HNCs and HNDs are flexible qualifications designed to address the needs and demands of employers as well as acting as a stepping stone to further study.

HN awards show that a person has gained nationally recognised practical skills to find work and the theoretical knowledge expected by today’s employers.

There is a wide range of HNCs and HNDs available in subject areas such as science, engineering and technology.

scOTTisH VOcaTiONal qUaliFicaTiONs (sVqs) Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) tell you exactly what you have to do in a job to do it well. They are based on National Standards which are drawn up by people from industry, commerce and education. This means that if you have an SVQ you have a way of proving that you can do your job well, to national standards.

In everyday life science is hugely important – from computers to washing machines, cars to hospital equipment, on-line shopping to beauty products, and so much more. It is a challenging subject where problem solving and analysis are honed to give individuals skills that can be applied to a number of jobs.

There is an exciting range of science qualifications now on offer with something for everyone.

SVQs are the building blocks of Modern Apprenticeships. Modern Apprenticeships offer people aged over 16 the chance of paid employment combined with the opportunity to train for jobs at craft, technician and management level. They are an exciting way of gaining skills and qualifications that will help to start a career without having to study full-time.

SQA is determined to ensure that science qualifications remain innovative, dynamic, up to date and leading edge.

A new Modern Apprenticeship in Life Sciences offers many exciting and interesting career opportunities. Life Sciences is often described as any of the science disciplines that study living things – this can include research and development into human healthcare, veterinary or agricultural biology.

sKills FOR WORK cOURses

a caReeR iN scieNce

These courses are designed to give you a real taste of the world of work. If you are taking one of these courses you will normally spend some of your time at a local college, other training provider or employer. This will mean learning in a different environment, meeting new people and facing new challenges.

Science arguably gives you the best options to maximise your career opportunities, whether or not you go on to become a fully fledged scientist.

The analytical, problem-solving skills you gain studying science are quite possibly the most transferable skills you can get your hands on.

Skills for Work courses are available in a diverse range of subjects including Energy, Engineering and Health.

All in all, science courses are incredibly interesting and a great stepping stone for your career and job prospects.

scieNce BaccalaUReaTe

FOR MORe iNFORMaTiON

Available from August 2009, the new Scottish baccalaureate in Science is made up of a group of eligible Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications and an Interdisciplinary Project.

To find out more about qualifications in Science speak to your school or college today.

The project is an Advanced Higher Unit in which you carry out an investigation or practical assignment. The aim is to apply your subject knowledge in realistic contexts, for example, a project about ‘Testing energy options for sustainable solutions. This is likely to involve you working outside with your school – in a college or university, or in a community or workplace setting.

www.mysqa.info

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to on h Switc ng a h c e t clima Young people across North East England are already switched onto the climate change challenge and helping make a real difference to the future of the planet.

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www.climatechangeschools.org.uk

We already know that climate change is a real and serious threat. But how long do we have to solve climate change and make the necessary changes to save our planet? Although there are many studies and theories, no one really knows. But we do know that time is running out, rapidly.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Pupils in 80 ‘Climate Change Lead Schools’ across North East England are already switched on to the climate change challenge, and are helping to make a real difference to our future.

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The Climate Change Schools Project, which manages the Lead Schools network, is a unique educational programme that puts climate change at the heart of the national curriculum in a creative and cross-curricular way. It works by providing direct teaching support for Key Stages 2 and 3, helping teachers and pupils to understand the impacts of human activity on the planet, and educating and inspiring them to make a difference now and in the future.

“It is crucial to be are aware of challenges facing our planet. We have a duty to teach children how much impact they have on the Earth and what they can do about it” Fiona Collins

The project is led by Dr Krista McKinzey who is based at Science Learning Centre North East in Durham. Krista explained: “The project helps schools embed climate change teaching and learning throughout all subjects, and aims to empower young to change the world.. It’s all about making schools ‘centres of excellence’ in the wider community, as they promote and lead by example on positive climate change action.

Western Community Primary School in North Tyneside is one of the 80 Lead Schools. Fiona Collins, science coordinator at the school, organised a climate change week that involved the whole school. She said: “Our school held a Climate Change week where children delivered assemblies on the subject and came up with the idea of green police to challenge the attitudes of staff. We also had our own version

of the WWF’s ‘Earth Hour’ and some of the older children took that one step further by having Earth Hour parties.

“As part of the week we also invited parents and other members of the community to come and see the outstanding work that had taken place, and offered them a free green raffle and free energy efficient light bulbs and advice about a new recycling scheme and its importance. The amount of visitors and positive comments made during the open afternoon demonstrates how much the children were discussing at home and how parents were interested in the subject too!

“It is crucial to be are aware of challenges facing our planet. We have a duty to teach children how much impact they have on the Earth and what they can do about it – particularly before it’s too late! Climatology needs to be on the curriculum for children of all ages. The students have been highly motivated by this subject – especially as they now feel they are as qualified, if not more so, than their parents! They like the fact that, even though they are not adults, they have a huge impact on the future of the planet.”

Krista concluded: “We are always looking for visionary and inspiring teachers, schools and young people to get involved, so if you’d like to find out more and be part of the pioneering Lead Schools network, do get in touch.

Ultimately we want every school everywhere to be involved!”

Contact details: Dr. Krista McKinzey Climate Change Schools Project Officer Science Learning Centre North East Telephone: 0191 370 6205 Website: www.climatechangeschools.org.uk

www.climatechangeschools.org.uk

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. . .

T SE , E M GA

! !

H C T MA

By John Dean & Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

Scottish tennis player Colin Fleming, 25, is ranked third in the UK tennis rankings and has . a series of competition successes to his name he Ranked 365th in the international ATP rankings, is particularly known as a fine doubles player p. and has represented his country in the Davis Cu

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When did you realise that you had talent as a tennis player?

I guess when I was about ten or 11 and I started to get picked to be part of district and then national squads up in Scotland. There were maybe seven or eight of us in those squads and being there made me realise that I had the talent to play good tennis. Andy and Jamie Murray were in those national squads, as were people like Davis Cup player Jamie Baker and David Brewer. There were lots of people on those squads and quite a few dropped out, as is normal, but quite a few of us came through.

When did you start to believe that you could be a professional tennis player?

It was probably later than most people. I kind of saw myself going through school and then going to university as well. I looked at going to college in the States but I ended up staying in Scotland and doing a degree and a tennis scholarship at Stirling University. It was only a couple of years into that, when I started to play some professional tournaments in the holidays and did quite well in them, that I realised I might be able to play at that level. It was only then that I decided to have a go at it.

Is there one person who helped you a lot when you were coming through?

I guess I was lucky when I was growing up because when I first went in those Central District squads, the coach was Judy Murray. We went to tournaments all together and there was a always a really fun atmosphere. Another big influence on my tennis was Euan McGinn, the coach at Stirling University. He became coach there the same year I went there and he was coaching me, helping me and giving me the belief when I was taking the first steps into playing professionally. I still work with him now. We get on really well and he understands my game and he’s still really helpful for me.

How difficult was it to balance your education and your sporting development?

It was great going to a university like Stirling because it’s a sports university and they gave me a scholarship. I was able to miss classes and miss the occasional test to go and play matches and tournaments.

They also gave me two years out of my degree when I decided I wanted to go and have a crack at being a professional and I was still able to train there and work with Euan. There was a lot of flexibility and it made it a lot more manageable than it might have been otherwise.

What was the process from leaving school to becoming a professional player?

It didn’t really influence my decision when to leave school. I still did my Highers exams but I decided not to do Sixth Year because my goal was to go to Stirling or go to America to college and I already had the grades to do that after five years of high school. My final year I intended to leave at 17 and go to uni. It was good because my professionalism and my training took on a new level once I did that and I was able to really kick on with my tennis and keep up my studies, which meant it was the perfect solution really.

What kind of support is there for a young player trying to make their way in tennis?

I am kind of biased towards universities – I can’t speak highly enough of Stirling – especially for players who are at that age when they aren’t quite at a level where the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) would be funding them. That was the case with me because I wasn’t really hitting the heights at that time. Uni was great because they supported me and enabled me to play tournaments. Obviously, the LTA were great once I got better and I was lucky in a way to be from Scotland because

Sports Scotland were able to help me as well. I think whatever route you choose, the important thing is to work hard and then the support comes with the results. You’ve got to work hard at it and then doors open for you.

What was your first big tournament and how did you fare?

A big tournament for me was going to play a Futures event in Tunisia.

For the stage I’m at now it’s a small event but at that time it was a big tournament and I qualified and made the semi-finals at a time when I still wasn’t sure if I could play professionally. That tournament kind of opened my eyes to what I could do and it’s something I look back on and I’m glad it happened because without it I wouldn’t have had the chance to do what I do now. When I look back on that and think that since then I’ve have the chance to have played in the Davis Cup and to play at Wimbledon and it’s all been a bit of a dream for me.

What do you regard as your greatest achievement in tennis so far?

Certainly my proudest moment was walking on court to represent Great Britain in the Davis Cup, so anything leading up that got me into that position I would regard as my greatest achievement. It was just an unbelievable experience and something that I’d absolutely love to do again.

What are your ambitions for your career?

My ambitions are to play at the top level in singles and in doubles, to play in grand Slams and Davis Cups to come. I’m working hard to do that. My success has come a bit quicker on the doubles court than in singles but I’m still trying to do well and succeed in them both and get up to the top level, which is where every tennis player wants to be.

Who are your heroes in tennis?

I think I’d have to go for Andy Murray – though I might get slated for that – because seeing someone Scottish like me going up to the highest heights of the game is really inspiring. For anyone Scottish, anyone British really, to see someone doing that is incredible and really inspirational.

Who’s helped you most in your career?

I think Euan McGinn is that person. He’s someone that I’ve worked with for seven or eight years now on an individual basis and he’s someone who has seen everything I’ve done. The last few years, getting the chance to work with Louis Cayer has been a great experience for me and for Euan because he’s as good as it gets for coaches and I’m very fortunate that I’ve been able to work with him.

If you weren’t a tennis player what would you have been?

In my time away from tennis I had a job as an energy trader, so I guess I’d have to say that!

What advice would you give to any player?

It’s kind of a cliché but always work hard and always believe in yourself and ultimately always enjoy it. To have a chance to play a sport at a high level is a fortunate thing and you should make the most of it by working hard and doing the best you can.

What do you want to do when you stop playing tennis?

If you’d asked me that a year ago I probably would have had a different answer but I think I’d like to stay involved in tennis in some way. I feel like I learned a lot during my time away from the game and I feel like I could help players of the future by passing on some of my experiences.

I see myself staying involved in the game in some way, shape or form but we’ll see what that is when the time comes.

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ANNA HAS THE RIGHT CH FOR HER CAREER! using her Anna Barker, 24, is pleased to be istry in her degree in Colour and Polymer Chem Choosing job at Colloids based in Knowsley. stood her subjects that she enjoyed at school emistry, in good stead and led to studying ch addition to physics and biology at A-level – in a lot in general studies and maths, packing Grammar to the two years at Clitheroe Royal School Sixth Form.

‘When the time came to choose a university course chemistry had started to shine through and I knew this was where I wanted to concentrate my future studies. I knew that I wanted to work in industry and came across ‘Colour & Polymer Chemistry’ at The University of Leeds. This appealed to me more than other chemistry courses as it seemed like my studies could be applied directly to industry.

Between A-levels and going to university I worked as a Quality Control Technician in a local chemical factory in Accrington. I then worked in university holiday time at Clariant and Procter & Gamble in technical roles which gave me a good taste for the working environment. The best piece of advice I was given with regards to my career is that you can never have too much related work experience.

I firmly believe my work experience and good references have been a massive factor in helping me get job offers.

During my final year at university I undertook a dissertation project regarding masterbatch, which is a technological term in producing plastics. I also started applying for jobs at this time and, as I was researching masterbatch at the time, the masterbatch industry seemed a good place to start. I found that applying for jobs well before you are due to graduate definitely pays off and creates a good impression to potential employers.

I spent the first year after university in a job that was not challenging enough so soon looked around again and was offered several placements at other masterbatch companies and chose to work for Colloids – I’ve not looked back!

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I have been at Colloids for two years and we modify polymers to make concentrates with specific properties. Every day at work is different but as Technical Development Manager I am mainly involved in laboratory based research & development and technical enquiries. However, I do spend time communicating with suppliers and supporting the sales team on customer visits and trials. In addition I am the REACH (new chemical legislation) co-ordinator for the Tosaf group (Colloids parent company).

With my job also comes the opportunity to travel. I travel in the UK regularly but also go to Europe and beyond to see customers, attend courses and conferences and to visit other parts of the Tosaf group. I have been to Tosaf Israel on several occasions and have also had the opportunity to visit manufacturing facilities in the Netherlands, the Ukraine and other Tosaf offices which bring variety to the role and a lot of learning from other places.

Every day is varied and demanding and I never get the chance to get bored. My degree in Colour and Polymer Chemistry is regularly put to good use which can’t be said for all graduate jobs and I am involved in many challenging projects. I enjoy the technical and problem solving side that makes me have to think! However I am also outgoing and am glad of the opportunity to visit customers and meet new people. I was pretty lucky with the advice I received growing up so wouldn’t change much. The one thing that was very important to me was to find a job I enjoyed, make an effort to get on with the people I work with and make the most of work. The last thing you want is to spend 40 hours a week being miserable!’

www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk

CHEMISTRY Colloids Ltd is a manufacturer of pigment and additive dispersions (masterbatches) for use in the thermoplastics industry. We supply a range of black, white, colour and additive masterbatches.

Our customers use masterbatch to impart colour or other characteristics to thermoplastics. Some of the benefits of using this type of system are n Clean – convertor doesn’t have to handle raw pigments and additives. n Adds value – compared to compounding pigments/additives at final dilution levels n Reduced stock holding compared to a coloured compound n Allows more accurate addition of colourants and additives n Provides better predispersion

“Every day is varied and demanding and I never get the chance to get bored.”

We are involved in a number of industries and applications including Agriculture, Appliances, Automotive/Aerospace/ Transport, Building/Construction, Consumer Goods, Cosmetics/Pharmaceutical, Electrical/Electronics, and Industrial Packaging in the UK, Europe and Export markets.

One of our key differentiators is our technical and research & development resource, both in terms of facilities and people. The company continues to look for opportunities for professional development & training; we believe that innovation and a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce can provide tangible benefits to both our customers and the company in a very competitive marketplace.

www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk

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STUDYING LANGUAGES Are you thinking of studying languages at university? Or maybe you’re thinking of taking up a new language when you get there? Routes into Languages is here to help with all the information you’ll need about languages at uni.

Mix & Match Your Subjects!

When you study a language at university, you can choose to study other subjects alongside it. How do these combinations sound…?

logy French and Crimino al Studies Chinese and Cultur ism Spanish and Journal ies Hebrew and Film Stud Art Dutch and History of Russian and Politics German and Sport

Quiz!

Can you match the greeting with the language?

The answers are on the next page, but no cheating!

1. Bonjour!

2. Labas!

3. Ahoj! A. Slovak 4. Hej! B. Welsh 5. Helô!C. Lithuanian D. French

These are just some of the courses involving languages that are on offer from universities up and down the UK. Check out their websites for more information on what other combinations you could study.

Language Fact #1: There are around 7000 languages spoken all over the world.

Language Fact #2: The longest word in English is pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis.

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E. Swedish Language Fact #3: There are 820 languages spoken in Papua New Guinea.

Language Fact #4: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, written by the UN in 1948, is the most translated document in the world, having been translated into 321 different languages.

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

es aT UNiVeRsiTY studying abroad For this edition of Way2Go, Routes into Languages interviewed Modern Languages student Emma Davies about her year abroad.

Hi Emma! How are you?

I am good thanks. How are you?

I’m great, thank you! Tell me, where did you go on your year abroad?

As I study French and German, I chose to study at university abroad rather than becoming a teaching assistant or working. I went to Pau, near the Pyrenees in France, for 6 months, and then I went to Heidelberg in Germany for another 6 months.

What sort of classes did you do at university?

In France, you could choose any subjects whatsoever! I chose some translation classes because I like translating, but I also did geography and history. In Germany, there was another translation class, plus modules on German history and German cinema.

What about when you weren’t in class? What did you do in your free time?

In my free time, I would meet up with friends who had come to do the year abroad from lots of different countries, even as far away as Australia! I also went shopping quite a lot and spent too much money! In Heidelberg, there is a lovely riverbank where we would sunbathe and have barbecues.

What languages can i study?

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to learning languages. These are just a fraction of the languages taught in UK universities:

Japanese, Ch in es e, French, Russian, Italian, German, Quechua, Greek, Dutch, Spanish, H ebrew, Arabic, Sanskrit, Latin, Portuguese.

But you can choose to study dozens more independently at the university language centres!

it’s not all about books!

When you study languages at university, you become part of the university’s language-learning community. Most universities have clubs and societies that run languagerelated events, but the main aim is to have fun!

German conversation at Starbucks, Spanish film and dance night in a salsa club, French picnic in the park: these are just some of the language-related social activities you could be taking part in at university!

What’s your favourite memory of your year abroad?

I don’t have one favourite memory in particular, it was all so fantastic! I suppose just getting to live abroad in warmer climates than England was good!

Finally, if someone was thinking of applying to study languages at university but was nervous about the year abroad, what would you say to them?

Don’t be! It may be nerve-wracking at first because you are in a new country, but it is really enjoyable and well worth it. Plus all of my friends wish they got to go abroad for a year!

qUiZ aNsWeRs.

How many did you get right? 1d, 2c, 3a, 4e, 5b

For more information on Routes into Languages, visit our website on www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

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und e r ’ you f i T Get a CA You can travel all day on all public transport in Tyne and Wear for just £1 if you have an U16 Child All-day Ticket (U16 CAT).

The single child fare is 50p, so use the U16 CAT as a return ticket – or make several journeys with it and save loads of money!

You’ll need to show your Under 16 Card to be able to buy the U16 single fare or U16 CAT – so if you haven’t got one, get an application form from any Nexus TravelShop or at nexus.org.uk If you’re 16 -18 and paying bus and Metro fares every day – get a season ticket!

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If you’re travelling by public transport in Tyne & Wear most days, and paying single adult fares, you’ll save loads of money by buying a pass instead. The best one to buy will depend on which type or types of public transport you use –

www.how2get2.co.uk

under16!

If you only use Go North East buses If you’re in full time education at school or college, you can save a packet with a Get Around ticket from Go North East.

Tickets are available for 1, 7 or 28 days (£3, £13 and £52 respectively), or 16 weeks (£180) - ideal for a term, from any Nexus or Go North East TravelShop, online at www.simplygo. com or by phone on 0845 60 60 2 60. To buy a Get Around ticket, you’ll need a Get Around ID card. They are issued free and you can apply online at www.simplygo.com.

If you only travel on Stagecoach buses

Want to keep up to date?

Sign up to receive our enewsletter - News from Nexus and we’ll keep you up to date with what’s happening on public transport – from news about bus services and how to get to major events in the area to improvements at Metro stations and information about new tickets

And (if you’re over 16) you’ll automatically be entered into a prize draw to win £250!! Just go to nexus.org.uk and sign up today!

Be a Very Independent Person with an Under 19 VIP ticket.

It’s for young people aged 18 and under in full-time education and is valid on all Stagecoach services in Tyne and Wear. You’ll need to show one of these forms of ID when you buy your VIP ticket, and when you use it – college ID, Teen Travel ID card or Under 16 Card. You can buy daily tickets (£2) and weekly tickets (£7) from the bus driver, or buy a monthly ticket (£28) at www.buymyvip.com.

If you only need to use Arriva buses The Arriva Student Saver is for anyone aged 16 and over in full time education. The full academic year Student Saver costs £430. Tickets for autumn, spring and summer terms are also available and cost £159. Tickets can be bought in any Arriva Travelshop or online at www.arrivabus.co.uk/students.

you Only use the Metro?

All zone passes are available for one week at £9 or four weeks at £32.50. To buy one, fill out an application form and take some student identification to any Nexus TravelShop (valid for the current academic year) and some proof of age. You must be under 19 on 31st August to qualify.

Find out more at www.nexus.org.uk/16-18msc.

If you use Metro and bus, or buses from a couple of different companies The Teen Travelticket is for 16 to 19 year olds, in full time, further education. Enjoy travel on most buses, the Metro, Sunderland to Blaydon rail line and the Shields Ferry all from only £1.42 a day – a saving of 25% on standard Traveltickets.

You will need a current Teen Travel or college ID card to buy your ticket. Visit www.networkticketing.com for full details And of course your new pass won’t just be valid for getting you to school or college – it’ll be even better value for money if you use it to get to your part-time job, go to the shops, meet up with your mates, go to the cinema……..

Have a look at www.how2get2.co.uk.

It’s aimed at 16-18 year old students and gives you all this information plus loads more. It includes timetable information for buses, scholars services and Metro, as well as news items about public transport that are relevant to you. You can sign up to be sent an email if there are problems on Metro, or renew your Teen Travelticket or 16-18 Metro Student Card online. If you need to get somewhere you’ve not been before, use the online Journey Planner to help you get there.

www.how2get2.co.uk

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ReWaRDiNG YOUNG app sTeps Young apprenticeship awards evenings 2009

Employer partners from Northumberland Awards

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www.skillsacademyforhealth.org.uk

pprentice’s Success Skills Academy for Health: STEPS run the Young Apprentice Programme for Health and Social Care in Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Tees Valley. lth for students who are studying Hea STEPS provide work based learning e in ramm prog the on take 11 and who and Social Care during years 10 and must ces renti App g Youn The . ents addition to their other school commitm across e during their 2 years with STEPS complete 50 days of work experienc ngs.

Health, Social Care & Early Years setti

STEPS recently held three Awards om Evenings for Young Apprentices fr the following partnerships: • Newcastle, Gateshead & North Tyneside • Tees Valley • Northumberland

Katy Hill, Year 10 & Katie Harland, Year 11 Redcar Community College

These evenings were held to acknowledge and celebrate the Young Apprentice’s hard work, achievement and development across the first or second year of their STEPS into Health and Social Care programme. They were also an opportunity to thank the many employers who have given their time, resources and expert guidance to the Young Apprentices so that they may get the most from the STEPS programme.

www.skillsacademyforhealth.org.uk

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sTeps Young apprenticeship awards evenings 2009

Photography was provided by Chapman Brown Photography & JK’s Magic Moments

Year 10 Learner of the Year finalists from Tees Valley

ge amount of “although there is a hu programme work that goes into the s team to p from ourselves the sTe challenging make the programme a for the and valuable experience mme would young people, the progratoday if not be the success it is ment of it it wasn’t for the comm ho have w the Young apprentices ation and iv shown dedication, mot ut their two determination througho p and have hi year Young apprentices on is has ti given sTeps the reputa today.” jaNiNe WilsON

sTeps leaD YOUNG appReNTice cOORDiNaTOR

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Everyone at the events was treated to a non-alcoholic champagne reception, balloon artist, chocolate and soft drinks fountains, mind-bending entertainment, a buffet and disco as well as the awards themselves, which seemed to go down well. The awards were attended by Apprentices, family members, teachers, employers and representatives from various Local Authorities.

All students received some form of recognition, but the evenings were also an opportunity for STEPS tutors to recognise those students who had made the biggest contribution to the success of the programme and also to their own personal development.

The people responsible for allocating these award categories were the STEPS Young Apprentice Coordinators in each region as they have developed professional relationships with the learners, and are best placed to judge their progress, development and commitment.

The two most prestigious awards were the ‘STEPS Student of the Year’ and ‘STEPS Young Apprentice of the Year’. These awards are given to the Young Apprentices that have shown continued commitment, attainment, positive attitude and feedback from employers, attendance, improvement and personal development.

In Tees Valley, the Young Apprentice of the Year was Katie Harland, Year 11 Redcar Community College, while the Learner of the Year was Katy Hill, Year 10 Redcar Community College. They were chosen for the following reasons:

www.skillsacademyforhealth.org.uk

“Both students have been totally committed to the programme; they are enthusiastic and well organised. Although both were nervous in the early stages of meeting and working with a variety of people in different sectors their confidence has grown and they have developed into mature and caring young people, we are very proud of them. Redcar Community College is totally committed to this programme, young people develop into confident adults the programme is well structured and students are supported throughout the course, it provides them with a good grounding and understanding of the workplace.”

A quote from Redcar Community College teacher of both students, Julia Boocock “Throughout my time on the STEPS team I have found both students to be extremely mature and level headed. I think it is important to recognise what a difficult thing it is for a 14 year old student to enter any workplace. When this workplace is populated with many lively young children, elderly residents who may have dementia or other illnesses or adults accessing a health service with an expectation of professional customer service; the pressure on these young students is even greater. Both Katie and Katy have proven that they have the character to deal with whatever challenge is presented to them, and the intelligence to understand their workplace as evidenced by their excellent written work. I feel they can both be extremely excited about what lies ahead as they have the world at their feet and so many opportunities to exploit. They are a credit to Redcar CC and the STEPS programme.”

A quote from STEPS Young Apprentice Coordinator, Tim McHanwell

In Northumberland, the Young Apprentice of the Year was Bethany McMullen, Year 11 Cramlington Learning Village, while the Learner of the Year was Ashleigh Jordan, Year 10 from Coquet High School in Amble. They are just two examples of how STEPS Young Apprentices have made positive impressions across the region: “The Young Apprentices that we have had through Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust have shown commitment to not only the areas they have chosen to work in but also have demonstrated competence to plan both their learning within the programme and alongside their normal school curriculum. The students are highly regarded within the organisation. We have also reaped the benefits of having these students in placements, when they make the decision to work for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust as their ‘employer of choice’.”

A quote from Senior Training Manager for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Jackie Kirsopp “Bethany McMullen gained a fantastic amount of experience through her work with STEPS through this programme she was given the great opportunity of working in a number of different care settings and working with different clients. From her Health and Social Care class work and assignments it was obvious that she had a very good understanding of meeting client’s needs and how to work effectively as a team in meeting those needs.”

A quote from Bethany McMullen’s Health and Social Care teacher from Cramlington Learning Village, Wendy Erskine

Lauren Grey & Alexandra Raistrick from Newcastle Ashleigh Jordan, Yr 10 Coquet High School – Amble In Newcastle, Gateshead & North Tyneside, the Young Apprentice of the Year was Jasmin Allan, Year 11 from Wallbottle Campus College in Newcastle, while the Learner of the Year was Diane Hickey, Year 10 from St Thomas More School in Blaydon. They have both shown a level of dedication that was outstanding even amongst their peers: “Although there is a huge amount of work that goes into the programme from ourselves the STEPS team to make the programme a challenging and valuable experience for the young people, the programme would not be the success it is today if it wasn’t for the commitment of the Young Apprentices who have shown dedication, motivation and determination throughout their two year Young Apprenticeship and have given STEPS the reputation is has today.”

A quote from STEPS Lead Young Apprentice Coordinator, Janine Wilson

Diane Hickey, Yr 10 St. Thomas More Blaydon

n, Yr 11 Bethany McMulle ing Village arn Le n gto lin Cram Walbottle Campus

Jasmin Allan, Yr 11 College – Newcas tle

STEPS into Health & Social Care believe that celebrating the achievements of young people is very important and something that is not done often enough. They recognise the value of positive reinforcement and take time and effort to host an event that all their partners could enjoy and identify with. STEPS can only hope that they can continue to retain the backing of the local authorities with whom they currently work, to continue, expand, develop and branch out across the region and are confident that they can continue to play a positive role in the lives of young people and in the development of the future workforce of the North East.

www.skillsacademyforhealth.org.uk

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A CAREER YOU CAN STILL COUNT ON...

By John Dean & Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

Few industries have experienced such traumatic times as the embattled finance sector.

The media has been full of tales about banks collapsing, thousands of jobs being lost and companies reigning in their expenditure.

So, what if you fancy working in a bank or landing a job with a firm of financial advisers? It is even worth trying to land a post in finance?

Well, the answer is yes. Although many financial institutions are indeed reducing their recruitment budgets, there rare still jobs to be found and jobs with good career potential.

One of the organisations with an optimistic take on the situation is the BBP College of Professional Studies, which is based in London and also has operations in Leeds and Manchester.

The college, which teaches 5,500 students, believes that there are still opportunities for young people who can demonstrate that they are truly committed to a life in finance.

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Although Chris Brady, Dean of the BBP Business School, acknowledges that landing one of those jobs remains challenging, he says that those candidates who prepare well have a good chance of being successful.

He said: “Today’s school leavers face the toughest challenges of previous generations, as competition for jobs is on the increase.

“Potential employers will be looking further than academic skills – they’ll want to see how effectively you keep up to date with what’s happening in the news, how in-depth your knowledge is, and more importantly, how committed you are to the sector or industry in which you want to work.

“There are plenty of opportunities to position yourself as a first choice for employers – work experience, getting a degree, postgraduate study, professional qualifications and membership to the industry body of your chosen sector.”

www.carterbar.com

“There are plenty of opportunities to position yourself as a first choice for employers – work experience, getting a degree, postgraduate study, professional qualifications and membership to the industry body of your chosen sector” For those who do pursue such a career, the opportunities are indeed there as illustrated by Rachel Loynes, from Hartlepool.

Rachel, 28, has worked for financial advisers Carterbar in Billingham, on Teesside, for four years, steadily developing her skills.

She recently became an Independent Financial Adviser after passing her Certificate in Financial Planning examinations through the Chartered Insurance Institute.

Rachel said: “I fell into financial services really. I did not start my working life as a financial adviser but as an administrative assistant with another company.

“The more I learned, the more interested I became and I found mortgages particularly interesting. Now, I advise clients on a wide range of issues and enjoy the way I can help people.”

Chris Brady, at the BBP Business School, points to many such success stories and remains optimistic about job opportunities within the sector.

He said: “Don’t be put off by talk of a recession. History has shown that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel, so use this time to boost your skills - and be ready for the upturn.

“The UK is still a key worldwide financial centre, and the financial services sector will be on the road to recovery by the time many of you are ready to leave school.”

For more information about BPP College please visit www.bppuc.com The Carterbar website is www.carterbar.com

www.carterbar.com

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siMON saYs…

involves are you applying for a course that which modern languages? can’t choose d about course you want to study? Worrie m Hi, I’m Simon the dreaded Ucas form? simon fro and I’m here to help you w language-relat lp he to re ith your he is s ge ed questions. ua ng la o int degree in Mod Routes I’ve just finishe ern Language da s (French and so I can advise German), . ns you on everythi tio es qu ur yo l al th wi ng about gett ing onto that lang

DeaR siMON,

i want to study a language at university, but i don’t want to do just one subject. can i study other subjects alongside my language, like i have at sixth Form?

DeaR siMON,

urse full-time i’m studying a co ould like to w i t u b , e g e ll o c t a age too. learn a new langu do this? n a c i y a w a re e is th Simon says: Hi, yes there are a few options you could explore. Firstly, check with your college to see if they have any language courses available. Sometimes they’ll let you do these as a part of the course you’re already studying. If your college doesn’t have any language courses, get in touch with other colleges in your area, as they may run evening classes. The Modern Languages departments of local universities often have information on courses near to where you live, so you could try asking them too. You’re really increasing your employment prospects by learning a new language, so well done!

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uage course yo u’ve spotted!

Simon says: Hi there. That’s excellent that you’re choosing to study a lang uage.

You’ve made a great choice and you’ re going to have a fantastic time at university gaining lots of skills and meeting lots of new people. The great thing abou t university is that it’s very flexible and you’re nearly always able to combine studying a language (or several lang uages!) with other subjects that are completely unrelated. So if you wanted to, you could study French and Maths, Span ish and Drama, German and Biology, or even Chinese and Chemistry! Have a look at the prospectuses or websites of the univ ersities you’re interested in to see what they offer. Keep an eye out for a “Combine d Studies” course – that sort of cour se will allow you to mix and match nearly any subjects. Good luck!

DeaR siMON,

What should i wri te on my Ucas form to make me stand out from everyone else app lying to study languages at univ ersity?

Simon says

: First of all, cong ratulations on choo degree course – the sing a language next four years are going to be fantas When writing your tic! personal statemen t, make sure you why you want to stu write about dy languages – it’s amazing that a lot don’t! Have you tak of people en part in any scho ol exchanges, or pe you’ve had some work experience ab rhaps road? If so, write and let your prospe about them ctive university kn ow how these expe have helped and riences inspired you to stu dy languages. Bu you show them tha t make sure t you do other thi ngs outside of lan activities (as great guage-related as they are!). Tell them about any clu in and any hobbies bs you’re you have, but ma ke sure you’re alw how they’ve helpe ays saying d develop you as a person. Good luc application and yo k with your ur exams this year!

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

Tel: 0191 2325708

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