Open Doors - South West, Spring 2012

Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus

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Issue 2 | South West Edition | Spring 2012

Apprenticeships · Careers · Jobs · Training · A-Levels · College · UNI South WEST edition Issue 2 - Spring 2012 ISSN: 2047-377X

Richard Huish College and the Huish Business School Huish is one of the best sixth form colleges in the country and has been ranked in the top ten for A level performance in the last five years.

We provide a combination of excellent vocational and academic courses, professional training and apprenticeships that will ensure you get your choice of career development either at university or in employment.

• Over 50 ‘A’ Level courses for school leavers • CIMA, ACCA, AAT accountancy courses • Foundation Degrees in Business & Management & Sports Development & Coaching • Team Leading, Leadership & Management (ILM) courses • Apprenticeships in a wide range of disciplines • ICT, Skills and a variety of short courses available South Road, Taunton Somerset. TA1 3DZ. 01823 320 800 www.huish.ac.uk hello@huish.ac.uk

The Intro Bits

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Hello, we’re Open Doors... ... and this is our Regional Training Prospectus, here to help you decide what to do next.

It’s an exciting time, after all – young people like you up and down the country are planning for their futures in September 2012 – and did you know that there are endless opportunities, right on your doorstep! You could start earning money with an Apprenticeship; get a taste of the working world with employer funded study; carry on learning at sixth form or college, and much more.

In this issue we will profile some of the biggest sectors in your region and explain how to take the first step to a career in the ones that interest you. We’ll also cover all of the main sectors out there, explore trends in your area, and take a look at some remarkable true stories of young people who have had success after leaving school.

But that’s not all! We also have a guide to all of the confusing qualifications out there, advice on how to make the most of our social media and we will answer some of the most common questions that you might have.

The future is in your hands... right here in this prospectus.

So turn the page and let’s get started!

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ional. e.Reg om/Thctus .c k o o aceb rospe www.f Training.P

feel free to put a link to our we www.opendoo bsite rsm on your schools edia.co.uk resources web pages or intranet

S FIND UCEBOOK ON FA

Throughout this Prospectus, you’ll see lots of facts and figures about our region and its sectors. We get them from UK National Statistics, various Sector Skills Councils, regional local authorities and industry experts. It’s all official stuff, there’s no Wikipedia where we’re involved!

Open Doors – Spring 2012 - South West edition Publisher – Karl Mason karl@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Design – Studio Belly Timber hello@studiobellytimber.co.uk

Editor – Stan Neal editor@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Distribution/Subscriptions distribution@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Business Development – Simon Bell simon@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

To contact us: 01765 694120 | info@opendoorsmedia.co.uk

ISSN: 2047-377X

All material is copyrighted both written and illustrated. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. All images and information is collated from extensive research and along with advertisements is published in good faith.

Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at press time, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.

Production Manager – Lindsey Thomson-Heley production@opendoorsmedia.co.uk Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus is published by Open Doors Media Ltd ©2011.

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

The Intro Bits

Careers Insight

07 HOW TO APPLY

17 Health & social care sector

Here we answer some of the most common queries you might have

10 Qualifications table

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

If you’ve got a big heart, put it to good use in a caring career

21 Business & finance sector

See how different qualifications add up, and how they compare

12 Life Stories

Fancy a high-flying career?

25 Transport &

logistics sector

A fleet of careers that keep our world moving forward

29 Hair & Beauty Sector

Get a career that never goes out of style

33 IT & telecoms sector

This cutting edge industry isn’t just for the geeks

37 Imagine a career...

& social h t l a e H

7 p1 tor care sec

04

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

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Here’s how it w orks Eve

ry term, we publish a new issue of Open Doors tha t covers five sectors in you get a good idea of detail so what a career in those industries would be like the sector you’re keen . Don’t worry if on isn’t one of the five – you’ll find it in our overvie sectors in the ‘Imagine w of remaining a career in...’ article. Wi th each new issue, we’ll new sectors in detail, so cover five totally make sure you look out for us next term.

If there’s anything else you ’d like us to cover, or if you just want to say hel editor@opendoorsmed lo, email us at ia.co.uk. We want to ma ke sure our magazine offe you need (or just want rs everything to read about)! Happy rea ding, and hope you hav e a great term.

Useful Stuff 43 Spotlight on The SOUTH WeST

All about your region

52 More helpful stuff

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

54 Check us out on social media

A step by step guide on how to find us on facebook, twitter and google +

tor oms sec c e l e t & p33 IT

ir & p029 Ha ector Beauty S

ness & p21 Busi e sector financ

p25 Transpo rt &

logistics sec tor

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HOW TO APPLY Now you have an idea of what course or subjects would be right for you it’s time to think about taking the next step and making an application...

Do you know what the Common Application Process is?

800,000

(number of school leavers and graduates who enter the job market each year)

34%

of employers say relevant work experience is the most important part of an application

How do you approach a company for work experience?

70%

Around 70% of 16 year olds choose to remain in full time education

Applications without spelling mistakes are 61% more likely to get a reply

+ 0 0 ,0 5 7 2 500,000 There are more than university places in the UK each year

(number of apprenticeship starts in England each year)

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HOW TO APPLY By now you will have some good ideas about what industry and job role appeals to you. You will also be aware of what types of courses and providers can help you get there, but how do you apply? Here we cover some of the application processes for further and higher education courses as well as some general tips on how to make a successful application...

Common Application Process 14-19 area prospectuses use an online resource called the Common Application Process (CAP) which makes it easier to apply for different types of courses at age 14 or 16.

What is the Common Application Process?

Basically the CAP allows you to easily manage all of the applications you want to make for different courses. There might be lots of courses that interest you and the CAP lets you upload your application details so that you can quickly apply for any courses on your local 14-19 area prospectus. This means that you should not have to fill out lots of different application forms but can just upload your details once and then browse courses and click to apply.

The system also keeps track of the status of all of your applications so you can check their progress and see if you have any offers of places.

It also links to local Information Advice and Guidance services so that you can get some helpful advice if the providers you have applied to are unable to make you an offer.

What kind of courses does the Common Application Process help me apply for?

The courses on here are those offered by local colleges and training providers. As it is used for all applications through your 14-19 area prospectus you can use it to apply for the following types of courses: • AS and A Levels • Basic/Key Skills • BTEC’s • GCSE’s • Higher Education Courses • Vocational Qualifications How do I get involved?

Your school should be able to give you a login to use on your 14-19 area prospectus, which will allow you to complete a personal profile and application form, browse the available courses and apply for them online.

For the details of your 14-19 area prospectus turn to page 52 of this magazine or head to www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk. Most of the 14-19 area prospectuses are very easy to use but if you do have problems don’t be afraid to email them, they will be happy to help and guide you.

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Apprenticeships

You might have decided that an app renticeship is the way to go! The National Apprent iceship Service operates a vacancy matching serv ice that allows you to search apprenticeship opportu nities and make applications for them online.

To apply for an apprenticeship follow these simple steps: • Head to www.apprenticeships.org .uk and click ‘search for vacancies’.

• Register on the site and activate your account.

You only have to do this once and you will get a homepage that allows you to track your applications.

• Search for apprenticeships by keywords, job roles, locations or learning providers. (Mak e sure to check the site regularly as new vacancies are uploaded all the time.)

• When you find the apprentices hip you want you can click to apply through the site.

You’ll be asked to fill in your personal info, outline your experience and possibly answer some question s. You can even save your application as a draft and return later if you have to.

• Keep applying! You can apply for up to 10 vacancies and if successful will be invited for an interview or assessment.

Find out more an idea about So now you may have a bit more of ider might be what type of course or learning prov over. You can disc to e right for you there’s loads mor are available tions lifica qua and find out what courses pectus, pros 9 14-1 l loca your with in your local area they’re on page 52. .co.uk for ... check out www.opendoorsmedia area. your in help can details of people who

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UCAS Application Process lication System The Universities and Colleges App cation course (UCAS) is the system for higher edu on the news as it seen applications. You’ve probably ly to university app ple peo of s hundreds of thousand undergraduate each year. The system is not just for uate degrees grad degrees; foundation degrees, post on this site. are ses cour n and most higher educatio are: y ersit univ for lying app The basic steps to literally Choosing your course – There are your research do to sure e thousands available, mak are lots of e ther you, for right on which course is ider where cons Also . help to site the on resources ns tutio insti you want to do the course, some specialise in certain courses. is all online and Applying – The application system ns you would tutio you select on the site which insti ’. You need ices ‘cho your like to apply to, these are why you’re ng sayi t men state onal to provide a pers too so make sure right for the course as part of this, to take your time. you a place Offers – If a university wants to offer system what they will let you know on the UCAS have to reply will results they expect you to get. You s. offer to accept or refuse these ersity asked Results – If you get the results the univ you will be and e for, they will probably offer you a plac you fail to If se. cour new able to start planning for your course at a find still can you es, grad get the necessary em. syst ring’ a different university through the ‘clea further help Your teachers will be able to offer you at find can you h whic using the system, www.ucas.ac.uk.

The Intro Bits

General Tips on Applications Applications vary greatly on the system you are using or the course or job you are applying for, but there are some general tips that can be applied to most cases.

Grammar and Spelling Take your time when applying. None of the application systems covered on this page force you to log on, find a course and apply all in one go. This means you have plenty of time to check your application thoroughly, applications with spelling mistakes or grammatical errors suggest that you have rushed the process. You might like to word process your application and then ‘cut & paste’. It’s often a good idea to get your parents, teachers or friends to help you by double checking!

Work Experience You may decide to get some work experience to help you get the course, apprenticeship or job that you want.

This can often be a good way to get ahead. If you have a company in mind for work experience you could telephone to find out who to approach or send a polite, and well written, letter or email with a CV attached.

Be Yourself!

This is a top tip for any application. In many cases the people you are applying to have to look through hundreds of application forms. Try to show what would make YOU the right person for the course. Do you have a real passion for the subject or is it your dream to go into a career in that sector?

What makes you stand out as a good applicant and the best candidate for the course or job? Make sure you’re picking the course or job that suits your personality and skills best!

If you are having trouble with your application your school careers advisor should be able to help.

Top 5 CV Writing Tips from InspireEducation

most companies will select only 4 Sometimes, 70 people or even more will apply for every vacancy, and g Letter right to give you the best Coverin and CV your get to l essentia is people to attend an interview. It chance of being interviewed. the pile, always use a word processor 1. Spelling and Grammar mistakes will put your CV at the bottom of and get someone to check it for you. an employer has 70 to read! Keep your CV, clear, 2. Remember your audience; CV’s can be boring to read especially if emphasize particular points or experience, which are to CV your tweak to want easy to read and to the point. You might relevant to that particular job. that makes the reader carry on or dismiss the 3. A good Personal Statement at the start of your CV will be the hook you would be good for the job, inspire them to why and are you application. In 3 – 4 sentences you need to say who want to interview you. skills match their requirements, using bullet points 4. Bullet point your key skills, the reader will need to see quickly if your will make it easier for them. , everyone does this; you need to stand out from 5. Do not list “reading, going to the cinema and socialising” in your hobbies and environment you are. the crowd and show them how involved in your community, activities students to be successful post education.

Finding a job part-time or full-time is very tough; InspireEducation helps e-education.co.uk See our website for more information on our IAG workshops. www.i2

09

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

Entry Level

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

LEVEL 4-8

Entry Level Certificates

5 GCSEs (grades D-G)

5 GCSEs (grades A*-C)

A Levels

Foundation Degree

Skills for Life

BTEC Introductory Diplomas and Certificates

Intermediate Apprenticeship

Advanced Apprenticeship

Higher Apprenticeship

Functional Skills at entry level (English, maths and ICT)

OCR Nationals

BTEC First Diplomas and Certificates

GCE in applied subjects

Diploma of Higher Education

Awards, Certificates, and Diplomas at entry level

NVQs at level 1

NVQs at level 2

BTEC Diplomas, Certificates and Awards

HND, HNC

Foundation Diploma

Higher Diploma

NVQs at level 3

Advanced Diploma

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Your Career Starts Here Acacia Training & Development Ltd are one of the largest South West based independent training providers.We pride ourselves on understanding the needs of our learners and the employers they work with. We liaise regularly with employers who are on a constant look out for bright, young, committed individuals. We have employers currently looking for young people hoping to forge careers in the following sectors •

Health & Social Care (Care of the Elderly)

•

Children and Young People Workforce (Childcare)

•

Hairdressing

•

Barbering

•

Accounting

•

Administration

•

Customer Service Team Leading and Management

Our fully qualified training team will give you the advice you need and then advise you on the best direction for you. Our links with City &Guilds and the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) ensures we are delivering the most up to date and relevant qualifications for you. Year on year our achievement rates increase above National Averages with OFSTED rating us as a GOOD training provider.

Our industry expert assessors will work with you and your employer to ensure you have the skills and knowledge needed for you to be effective in your work and for you to learn the skills that you need to get on in work.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN FORGING A CAREER IN ANY ONE OF THE ABOVE SUBJECTS CALL YOUR NEAREST ACACIA TRAINING CENTRE WITHOUT DELAY. TAUNTON T: 01823 330093

NEWTON ABBOTT T: 01626 835485 Foundation Diploma

PLYMOUTH T: 01752 670811

www.acacia.ac.uk

CORNWALL T: 07525 911011

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Life Stories Talking to the Animals KYLE Hill’s lifelong ambition was to pursue a career in Animal Care after a childhood spent working with and admiring animals.

Having decided that sixth form was not the route for him, eighteen year old Kyle from Sandford, chose the Level 2 Diploma in Animal Maurward Management course at Kingston d curriculum and College as it offered the best all roun in the region. als anim houses the widest variety of on campus ying stud k wee a s day Spending three y, furry and with the college’s wide range of scal core elements rs feathered friends, the course cove exotics, als, anim of including health and welfare gy. biolo and tion feeding, accommoda nt at Kingston Kyle also secured a work placeme er insight furth Maurward College, gaining valuable into the animal care industry. m work offset Regular assessments and classroo Kyle most enjoys. the practical hands-on work that n invaluable in bee In his own words the course has ted to follow: wan he path er getting him on to the care in future, park ri safa a on ad abro “I’d like to work I wledge need to so this course is giving me the kno lify.” qua work towards that. I can’t wait to e abroad to mov y atel With aspirations to ultim short term his ing sett is Kyle , work in a safari park ri t Safa park in sights closer to home on Longlea in Hampshire for Wiltshire or Marwell Wildlife Park the immediate future. in July Kyle When his level 2 Diploma finishes rd College rwa Mau ston King at on hopes to stay oma in Animal Dipl and either embark on the Level 3 iceship locally. rent App an Management, or study for c.ac.uk For more information: Visit www.km

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Ian aims high Once a gang member at a very young age, Ian Perkins 21, knows only too well the tragedy of taking the wrong path in life and losing friends due to crime and unrest. Looking for his second chance in life and to prove wrong those people who once doubted him, Ian’s determination and will to succeed led him to Lifetime.

Enrolling into the Lifetime Fitness Academy and with the support of tutor Mark Pem berton, Ian successfully completed his Level 2 Fitness Instructor Apprenticeship; not only could Ian earn while he learned, but he was able to gain ‘on the job’ skills and a true understanding of the indu stry.

Ian says: “I have turned my life arou nd, influenced people and shown never to give up on anyone. In the space of just 20 months I have com e from “just an apprentice” to becoming the you ngest ever Health and Fitness Manager of the largest Fitness First club in Europe. I have received two awards from my employer on consecutive months, which has never been achieved by anyone in the com pany. I always aimed high from the very start and never gave up on that goal.”

A bright future awaits Ian; he now teaches ‘PT Business’ courses and has worked hard to establish himself in the fitness industry. “Eve ntually I want to have a say in how the industry is run. I feel that my passion behind health and fitne ss can influence change; my ambition is to aim high !”

For more information please get in touch T: 0870 120 1207 W: www.lifetimetraining.co.uk/look ing-for-a-job E: fitness@lifetimetraining.co.u k

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Robert Denton Design Engineer, Messier-Dowty I was inspired by the commanding officer of my Air Cadet unit to get into Engineering and looked into some work experience placements where my Dad worked - Messier-Dowty. I really enjoyed the experience and decided that I wanted to get involved with design engineering. I also knew that I wanted to push myself academically towards a degree. decided that Having investigated my options I the way to go y nitel defi the apprenticeship was gain. I started ld wou I ce erien exp the considering as a ‘technical 6 with Messier-Dowty in August 200 of academic ber num a apprentice’ and completed year period. four the over s tion and practical qualifica March 2010 I completed my apprenticeship in First Place at and during my time I was awarded Year Apprentice First the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ for t of England.

Wes th Sou the of ion for the Central Reg g (Hons) Degree I have now started a part-time BEn University of West in Mechanical Engineering at the Messier-Dowty. by d England (UWE), all-sponsore and Military My current role is in the Regional focuses on inEngineering Team where my work e variety of aircraft larg a on service issues and repairs 146 to the BAe the jet er seng from the small pas B. AV8 the ier, Harr the of ion American vers n to achieve a My career aspiration has always bee Air Force in al Roy the with , degree in engineering young people mind as a final goal. My advice for you and is a – find something that really interests t you would wha out realistic goal to achieve. Find then push and area that in job a need to do to get It’s hard work and yourself to your limit to achieve it. th it! wor not always fun but it’s absolutely

Ben is an inspiration Ben Aston / Level 3 Bricklaying

Apprentice

Ben was one of Train4All’s first learners when the doors opened for apprenticeship training back in September 2009.

Starting as an employed apprentice, Ben has progressed through his Level 2 qualification with ease, so much so that due to the fantastic trade skills he learnt; Ben competed against South West apprentices in the SkillBuild and Guild of Bricklayers competition s in 2010 and 2011 where he was highly commen ded. During Ben’s 2nd year with us, he took the plunge to go selfemployed and work alongside con tractors in the local area. Having now achieved his Leve l 2 City & Guilds Bricklaying Apprenticeship he has progressed onto his Level 3 award.

Ben is a real inspiration to young people, and has proved that by focusing on what you want, anything is possible. With tremendous skill s now under his belt, Ben offers work experience opportunities to young learners and will be taking an apprentice himself over the next 12 months.

“I have learnt so much at Train4All , the facilities are excellent and if I wanted to do extr a training, I was able to do so. I have been taught by the best and could not recommend highly eno ugh the training opportunities that are offered at Train 4All” Train4All Construction Training Tel: 01460 261179 www.train4all.co.uk

franmbd.com For more information visit www.sa

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Life Stories Alex is a winner Alex Simmonds is an apprentice in the second year of a 4 year Advanced Apprenticeship in Engineering employed by Messier-Bugatti-Dowty (MRO Division) based in Staverton, Gloucester. The framework he is working towards consists of the following components:

Keen to progress

ns NVQ • Performing Engineering Operatio Level 2 (Practical) gy • Diploma in Engineering Technolo ic) Level 3 (Academ ufacturing • NVQ Diploma in Mechanical Man Engineering Level 3 (Practical) • Key Skills Level 2 bilities.

• Employment rights and responsi renticeship with Alex spent the first year of his app ning about the lear up Gro Gloucestershire Training ineering and eng of ics bas al retic practical and theo dard before proved competency at a level 2 stan . During his first ises returning to his employer’s prem achieved the only not Alex 12 months on programme was also but 2, l Leve at s Skill Key PEO Level 2 and entation pres ual issued with 2 awards at GTG’s ann er and Turn rall evening for the following: Best Ove the won also Alex rd.

Apprentice of the year awa of; gory cate the er und tion peti EEF regional com apprentice year first a by t men ieve ach ing outstand l Level. Winners will and will now compete at Nationa ary 2012.

Janu 26 on be announced in London mechanically n bee ys alwa has he Alex said that age that minded and knew from a very early hip in ices rent he wanted to undertake an app got he s sure plea the Engineering. He recalls with ects proj ion orat rest cle vehi from undertaking has he that his father and subsequent projects . own his on ed plet com iceship He believes that through his apprent anding of erst und ter grea a gain programme he will but also sms ciali a diverse range of engineering spe e an mak to ired gain the invaluable life skills requ outstanding engineer. loyers Alex is currently working at his emp relevant the all ining obta k wee a s day 4 premises ieve the ach to ired knowledge and experience requ GTG nd atte to ing tinu con NVQ Level 3. He is also the of year nd seco the e plet com 1 day a week to 3. l Leve Diploma in Engineering Technology Further information please visit www.gtg.org.uk or call us on 01452 423461

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James MitchellCassell decided to stay in full time education and after achieving 3 A-Levels, was still unsure about his career. An apprenticeship advert caught his eye and his future was sealed.

James now works for Somerset County Council in the Business Development department.

James said: “There are strong ben efits in joining an apprenticeship compared to a classroom based option. I didn’t want to do ‘just’ an admin course; I wanted to be an apprentice that allow s you to work independently within a working envi ronment, giving you first hand experience.”

James is a lot clearer now about his future and is thankful to Somerset Skills & Lea rning for their support. James’ plan is to progress with Somerset County Council to a senior level.

For more information call: 01278 426828 or visit www.learnsomerset.co.uk

KICK START YOUR CAREER IN ENGINEERING

Gloucestershire Training Group (GTG) has been providing work-based learning in engineering for learners from member companies for over 30 years. We train apprentices in both Mechanical and Electrical disciplines and also offer a dual skill programme for those employers who require multi-skilled individuals.

• GTG is a small engineering Group Training Association (GTA) • GTG provides a range of additional tailor made training programmes & services • GTG can deliver to up to 85 apprentices in any one intake • GTG’s engineering training centre is in Gloucester, where learners undertake the first year off-the-job element of their apprenticeship programme.

GTG provides training services to the biggest engineering and manufacturing organisations within Gloucestershire, across engineering specialisms from aeronautical to intelligent communication systems; from the production of drill bits to credit cards.

To find out more visit www.gtg.org.uk or call us on 01452 423461

nortcoll.ac.uk // 01761 433161

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are you looking for a rewarding, long-term career in a growing sector? an apprenticeship in social care could be the answer – earn while you learn!

Social care is a growing sector and one that offers increasing opportunities for progression.

Skills for Care’s bespoke career pathways e-tool lets you explore where an apprenticeship in health and social care can lead and see case studies from those who work in the sector.

Go to www.skillsforcare.org.uk/careerpathways for more information visit: www.skillsforcare.org.uk/apprenticeships

Careers Insight

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HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE SECTOR

350,000 There are over 350,000 nurses in England!

You could help save lives There are hundreds of different career paths, from IT and admin to nursing and physiotherapy

Do you want to help people?

1.52 1.56

MILLION MILLION Workers in healthcare in England

Workers in social care in England

(two of the biggest sectors in the UK)

Advanced Dental Technicians earn between £28,000 and £37,000 per year

£33,436

per year (salary of senior health visitors)

Keep reading if you want a rewarding, important career…

17

Careers Insight

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Health &Social Care It’s one of the biggest sectors in the UK. It’s also your chance to start a rewarding, challenging career that helps people live healthy, happy lives.

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

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

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

Allied health professions

People who specialise in a specific area, like speech and language therapists, radiographers, occupational therapists and psychologists. The work of these professionals varies greatly depending on their skills.

Childcare

Childcare is an important career. Workers in this sector have to have the necessary skills to help children grow emotionally, physically and socially. The typical working day for someone in this sector will largely depend on the age of the children they care for and whether or not they are based in a school, day-care centre, or at the childs home.

Dental

There are a range of roles that are important to the dental team. Dentists, dental nurses, hygienists, technicians and therapists are all vital to providing dental care. Some will be employed or partners in a dental practice or based at NHS hospitals.

Healthcare science

The scientific side to it all – includes pharmacists, biomedical scientists and laboratory assistants.

Healthcare scientists play a vital role in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a range of medical conditions.

Health information

The people who help process, store and analyse patient information and medical records – medical records clerk, clinical researcher, IT professionals.

This is one of the fastest growing areas in the NHS as technology improves and more emphasis is place on keeping accurate records of patients.

Nursing and midwifery

The largest group of staff in the NHS nurses play a vital role in assisting doctors and consultants. Midwifery is one of the most rewarding job roles in the healthcare profession due to the key role they play in assisting mothers before, during and after birth.

Social care

Social care workers and personal assistants help a variety of people, ranging from those with disabilities to the elderly. They assist these groups in maintaining their independence and live fuller lives. Many of these workers visit patients in their own homes and provide support in a variety of settings.

Wider healthcare team

The NHS has to make sure all hospitals and health centres are well maintained, and that those in their care have all of their needs met. The wider healthcare team includes lots of roles, like technicians, porters, gardeners, caterers, cleaning staff.

SOUTH WEST Focus and social care There are around 291,000 health al care sector soci and lth employees here. The hea South West; the in r loye emp est is the second larg ’s health it accounts for over 10% of England could you that workforce. Areas of this sector medical eral gen , ities activ l work in include hospita est bigg the y; tistr den and practice activities employer here is hospital activity.

Fast facts:

Salaries Most people in this sector work for the NHS, where an entry-level position will earn you between £13,000 and £14,000 a year. With a level 2 or 3 qualification, you could be earning £16,000. The more experience you pick up, the mor e you’ll earn.

18

is in this sector.

• 13% of the South West’s workforce rs here have loye emp • 21% of health and social care vacancies. have a higher level • Employees in this sector tend to of qualification than most sectors.

Start learning!

Then turn to Want a course in the South West? your local 14ss page 52 to find out how to acce offering what ’s who you 19 prospectus. It will tell ld visit cou you or , area l loca course in your uk .co. edia rsm doo pen www.o

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Get into the sector!

There are lots of pathways to a career in this sector – relevant work experience is one of them…

Volunteering & work experience

There are lots of volunteering opportunities in Health and Social Care, and this type of experience could qualify you for a fulltime position or boost your application for a course. Visit www.volunteering.org.uk or www.do-it. org.uk to search for opportunities near you. You can also get in touch with your local NHS trust who may be able to help you with work experience.

Get qualified!

Apprenticeships

If you’re aged 16 or over, you could take an Apprenticeship in health and social care and get a job with an employer.

You’ll do half of your learning on the job and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2: • Health and Social Care • Pharmacy Assistants and Technicians • Support Services in Healthcare

Advanced Apprenticeships

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining employment experience. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Dental Nursing • Health and Social Care • Pharmacy Assistants and Technicians

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. Most employers and universities will value subjects that demonstrate you have solid base level knowledge and would be able to develop skills relevant to the industry. Here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Biology (Human) • Health and Social Care • Physical Education

CASE STUDY A route into the care sector Sian Hendry was recruited to take on an apprentice’s role within a team who provide care for customers with mental health issues who live in a supported housing complex of self-contained apartments.

Prior to undertaking the apprenticeship, Sian had waitressed for a number of years after completing her GCSEs and a university access course in media.

She soon realised that she would prefer to take up a paid vocation that offered on-the-job and skills training, rather than just a qualification.

Sian’s role is varied. She relishes the combined day’s study at college, with four days of on-the-job training.

The course gives her an overview of health and social care and she is tasked with live assessments that enable her to reflect on her practical experience.

On a daily basis, she can be helping customers to manage their appointment schedules, identifying signs of health deterioration and ensuring their health and safety.

Sian believes that for a role in care you need empathy and patience towards others. The apprentice role has helped her to build personal confidence and gain a better understanding of mental health.

For more information about social care apprenticeships visit www.skillsforcare.org.uk/careerpathways or email info@skillsforcare.org.uk

Foundation Degree

You can also do a Foundation Degree in health & social care. A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical fulltime Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from honours degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college.

College Courses

ks Health. l lin Usefu – Skills for uk rg. h.o alt sforhe

www.skill k – NHS Careers. www.nhscareers.nhs.u NHS. .nhs.uk - Step into the www.stepintothenhs Skills for Care. .uk/careerpathways www.skillsforcare.org web. the on s k - Careers film www.careersbox.co.u s resource. eer car line on r Ou ia.co.uk www.opendoorsmed

A college course can also be a great route into this sector.

To see which colleges have relevant courses in your region check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk.

19

N R EA E YOU L I H W

N R A LE ship! e c i t n e r p p with an A

Apprenticeships are work based training programmes for anyone over the age of 16.

They give ambitious young people like you the chance to get out into the real world and start a career after leaving school, and you will earn a salary too.

ffer…

Apprenticeships on o tration • Business & Adminis • Childcare • Customer Service ousing • Distribution & Wareh nology • Engineering & Tech

• Health & Social Care • Marine • Motor Vehicle • Retail

This training programme has been a great opportunity to build on my skills and expertise and really put into practice everything I’ve learnt.

Call: 0800 783 2545 Email: enquiries@pgon.co.uk Visit: www.paragonskills.co.uk Ref: BDM 106/GE/OD/04/11

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Business & Finance sector

53%

of workers in financial services are female

Almost 1 million people are employed in financial services in England

70,000 Around 70,000 young people start new businesses in the UK each year

78%

(percentage of financial services firms reporting skills shortages)

£26,000 - £50,000 per year (typical salary range for a qualified accountant)

Some of the biggest salaries going

Consider a career ‘in the money’...?

A non-stop environment for competitive people

21

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Business & finance

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

Put simply, the business and finance sector is about money – saving it, borrowing it, managing it and most of all, making lots more of it.

It’s the UK’s most global industry and covers a wide range of services and products that everyone uses like bank accounts, mortgages, pensions, credit cards and insurance. The perk of working with money is that salaries tend to be higher than average.

Here are some of the main areas within the sector:

Accountancy

Accountants keep track of companies and individuals’ finances so they can manage their money properly. Depending on their client’s needs, they might produce account reports, forecast future profits, calculate tax or audit accounts. All organisations – from football clubs to supermarkets – need accountants, so they can work in many different sectors.

Entry-level role: Accounts clerk, trainee accountant.

Starting salary: £12,000 – £16,000 a year.

Banking

The banking sector is huge. There are loads of international and domestic banks who manage our money, give loans, exchange money and more. There are three types: retail banking (like your local HSBC or Lloyds), corporate banking (banking services for businesses) and wholesale banking (large transactions for big clients like governments and other international banks).

Entry-level role: Customer service adviser, bank cashier.

Starting salary: £10,500 – £16,000 a year.

Financial advice

It’s not just for the wealthy – everybody needs financial advice at some point. Financial adviser’s help people make the most out of their money, whatever they have. A career in financial advice is about working with people to plan their financial goals, whether that’s choosing a mortgage, investing their savings or planning for their retirement.

Entry-level role: Insurance technician, customer service adviser in a bank or building society.

Starting salary: around £17,000 a year.

Entrepreneurial

Think you’ve got a fantastic idea for a business? Well almost two-thirds of entrepreneurs say that they had no experience of managing a business before they took the plunge. Organisations like the Prince’s Trust offer help and support to young people who are interested in starting their own businesses. If you have determination and are willing to put in the hard work starting your own business can be a wise career choice.

22

SOUTH WEST Focus The South West has the biggest financial services sector outside of London, employing nearly 180,000 people in the services area of the finance sector alone. Employees in this region enjoy some of the highest salaries in the country for this area of work; the average salary is around £37,000 a year.

Fast Facts

• 15% of the UK’s financial service employees are in the South West.

• 17% of the UK’s accountancy and finance workforce are also based here.

• Allianz Insurance, Santander UK Operations and Zurich Insurance UK are all based here.

Start learning!

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

ks ills Council. l lin Usefu es Sk ial .org.uk - Financ Servic

www.fssc ered rs - The Institute of Chart www.icaew.com/caree & Wales.

Accountants in England artered - The Association of Ch m co al. lob www.accag Certified Accountants.

Institute for nance - The Chartered www.cisi.org/getintofi nt.

Securities and Investme siness start uk - Offer support to bu rg. t.o rus s-t ce www.prin ups. web. k - careers films on the www.careersbox.co.u s resource. eer car line on r ia.co.uk - Ou www.opendoorsmed

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Get Qualified There are plenty of academic and vocational courses for this sector...

Apprenticeships

There are several Apprenticeships that will get you qualified in this sector.

The business and administration Apprenticeship covers all the skills needed to start a career in the office. On the finance side of things, there . are a few options: payroll, accounting and providing financial services of all sector, the to relevant rks Here are the Apprenticeship framewo these are NVQ level 2: • Accounting • Business and Administration • Marketing and Communications • Payroll • Providing Financial Services • Team Leading and Management

Advanced Apprenticeships

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Historically Advanced Apprentices have progressed significantly in the industry and many have gone on to become supervisors or managers. Many have remained in Business or Finance for their whole career. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Accounting • Advising on Financial Products • Business and Administration • Marketing and Communications • Payroll • Providing Financial Services • Team Leading & Management You can also do a Higher Apprenticeship, NVQ level 4 in: • Accounting

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below, but can be particularly useful in this sector as big companies such as Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales or Price Waterhouse Coopers offer funded training for students Level who have just completed A Levels. Here are some recommended A this in career a for direction right the subjects, which could set you in sector: • Accounting • Business Studies • Economics • Maths • Statistics

Foundation Degrees

s A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combine by jointly d Designe ce. academic study with practical hands-on experien universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college.

Case Study Norton Radstock College Stephanie Higgins I really enjoyed studying AS Level Business at school and passed the course, but I didn’t do too well with AS Biology and Psychology.

Rather than stay on for A2, I decided to enrol onto the new International Business course at Norton Radstock College.

With Business I love working things out, solving problems and learning how all the departments work together to make a business successful.

With this International Business course I get to go on work experience abroad, in either Spain or Amsterdam for a month. In fact, I get to learn Spanish as part of the course! I’m hoping I’ll get to see how business differs in other countries and get a broader experience.

We look at lots of big global companies on the course and how they work around the world.

After this I hope to go to Uni to study Marketing or Human Resources. I would quite like to work overseas one day; maybe in Spain, France or Italy to experience a new culture and new environment.

The BTEC Level 3 Diploma, Business (International) at Norton Radstock College is unique in the fact that it has been developed as part of a partnership project called Education Without Borders and has partners in Spain, the Netherlands and Hungary.

For more details call 01761 433161 or visit www.nortcoll.ac.uk

Employer-funded study

You don’t have to go to university to train to be an accountant.

Organisations like the ICAEW offer a training scheme for people who have completed their A Levels. You’ll start working for an employer and have gain two professional qualifications in four years. As mentioned PwC the Though leavers. school recruit also KPMG and a HEADstart scheme friends your time the by that is benefit the years 6 takes scheme KPMG are finished university, you’ll be earning and able to command a good salary.

Professional Qualifications

Professional bodies (such as Chartered Institute for Securities and d Investments, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and Chartere you allow which courses short offer ants) Account ment Manage of Institute to study specific areas of finance and gain a qualification employers will value. For example, if you want to work for an Investment Bank then the CISI’s Introduction to Investment Award could really boost your CV and teach you more about the Investment and Securities industry.

23

?

N O S D N HA S P I H S E C I T N E R APP FITTER PANEL, PAINT

CAREER TRAINING EXPERIENCE

AIR P E R H S A R C IN VEHICLE

AND

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN AN EXCELLENT WAY TO GAIN QUALIFICATIONS AND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN THE WORKPLACE, WHILST GETTING PAID. Clean, professional, cutting edge – like today’s vehicle repair technicians, the modern crash repair environment is geared up for innovative, highly skilled repair techniques on technologically advanced vehicles.

With nearly 33 million vehicles on the roads in the UK - Now is a great time to be a part of this fast paced, exciting industry.

Thatcham’s Automotive Academy is the largest training facility of its kind in the UK, providing a state of the art facility for a new generation of crash repair technicians. We offer apprentice training leading to VCQ Levels 2 & 3 in Body Repair, Body Refinish and Body Fitter.

Contact our Apprentice team now, and find out how you can be a part of it

01635 294 816 email: apprentices@thatcham.org or visit www.thatcham.org/apprentices tel:

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Transport & Logistics Sector

700,000 (number of people employed in transport sector in the UK)

748,000 new employees will be needed in the logistics sector by 2017

ÂŁ25,000 per year (average salary of HGV drivers in the UK)

You could help bands get to Wembley on time!

Want a career where you get to travel?

This is an important sector with lots of opportunities for all!

15%

(percentage of transport employers who have vacancies)

25

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Transport & logistics It’s all about movement – passengers travelling from A to B, goods being transported across the country, letters being sent across town, imports arriving in our ports from other countries...it’s truly a fast-moving industry!

This diverse sector deals with the efficient movement of people and goods. It can be broken down into two major areas: ‘Transport’, which covers the people moving side of things like buses, trains, taxis, aeroplanes and the Underground – and ‘Logistics,’ which covers the movement of goods and products across the country and abroad.

The UK transport industry is absolutely huge – it employs over 560,000 people across the different subsectors. Our logistics industry is worth £14.5 billion and employs around 2.3 million people in over 195,000 companies.

Both transport and logistics industries require skilled mechanics to keep the vehicles running, drivers to operate the vehicles safely, and organised people behind the scenes keeping the whole operation running to schedule.

Here are some of the main areas within this sector:

Rail transport operations

It’s no simple feat to keep our railway network running to schedule – we need people to drive the trains, take fares, assist customers, operate the signals and more. You could work for the Underground or above ground. With new high speed rail systems being proposed by government there will be more opportunities in this area in the future.

Earnings: Around £13,000 a year.

Airports

It takes more than pilots to keep plane passengers safe – air traffic controllers help planes land safely and baggage handlers make sure luggage reaches the right destination.

This sector is continually growing, with more and more flights every year. There are also lots of customer service roles throughout airports.

Earnings: Between £14,000 and £17,000 a year.

Engineering and maintenance

Transport and logistics rely heavily on vehicles – trains, buses, aeroplanes, vans, cars and motorcycles – so the sector needs people with the skills to keep them running. You could learn how to service sections of rail or fix lorries, depending on your interests. Maintenance specialists are also vital to our railways and motorways.

Earnings: Between £16,000 and £19,000 a year.

Mail services

This deals with the collection, processing and delivery of mail and packages. The Royal Mail is the largest employer, but there are lots of other specialist mail providers like FedEx who have grown with the popularity of internet shopping. You could sort in a processing centre or be out and about, making deliveries.

Earnings: Between £12,500 and £17,000 a year.

Driving & carrying goods

This covers the transport and delivery of goods by both light vehicles (like motorcycles and van) and large goods vehicles (like lorries). Large goods vehicle driving requires a special type of driving license. There are over 300,000 HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers in the UK. Earnings: Between £10,500 and £12,500 a year.

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Warehouse & storage

An essential part of transport and logistics, this area deals with the movement and storage of goods. It involves more than just lifting and moving things around – it takes organisation skills to manage inventory and specialist skills to operate forklifts and other machinery. Many roles in warehouse & storage are admin or management roles.

Earnings: Around £13,000 a year.

south west focus Combining new jobs and those that need replacement employees, for example after retirement, there is an expected 81,000 jobs to fill by 2017, like the sound of those odds? There are a variety of roles to suit different people including supply chain management, cargo handling, warehouse and storage and various modes of transport like road, sea and rail. The most common job role here is in goods handling and storage, like the people who operate warehouses, over 30,000 people work in these roles here.

Fast facts:

• Over 135,000 South West workers are employed in the transport and logistics sector, this is 5% of the region’s employees.

• There are nearly 24,000 Large Goods Vehicle drivers in the South West.

• 7% of all South West workplaces are in the transport and logistics sector, that’s around 16,000 workplaces.

• 65% of these workplaces are in the wholesale subsector.

Start learning!

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

Careers Insight

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Get qualified!

There are plenty of vocational routes into this sector...

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. You’ll get a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2: • Aviation Operations on the Ground • Cabin Crew • Driving Goods Vehicles • Mail Services • Passenger Carrying Vehicles Driving – Bus and Coach • Purchasing and Supply Management • Rail Transport Engineering • Rail Services • Traffic Office • Transport Engineering & Maintenance • Warehouse and Storage

Advanced Apprenticeship

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining employment experience.

Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Driving Goods Vehicles • Logistics Operations Management • Purchasing and Supply Management • Rail Transport Engineering • Transport Engineering and Maintenance You can also do a Higher Apprenticeship, NVQ level 4 in: • Purchasing and Supply Management

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. As many of the skills needed in the industry there aren’t specific A Levels that are the key to the sector. However if you’re interested in management aspects here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Business Studies • Economics

Case Study GoSkills’ Awards winners Rail Apprentice, Liam O’Donovan So why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship?

I looked at all my options for further education before deciding on an Apprenticeship over university. Obviously university tuition fees are constantly rising but mostly I liked the practical aspect that an apprenticeship can offer. You work and study at the same time so you are learning a life-long skill from day one.

Why Communications? That was simple, I have always been fascinated with IT infrastructure, so it was an obvious choice for me.

What does the apprenticeship involve?

It involves maintaining public addresses, fire alarm systems, tunnel telephones, fire brigade radio, electronic services update boards and clocks. These are all systems that often go unnoticed but are essential for stations to operate safely and efficiently.

After completing your apprenticeship, what position will you hold?

I will be a Senior Technician. This is because I also completed an optional HNC course in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, completing the first year with a distinction. My employer is very supportive of personal development and thoroughly encourages further learning. I am also about to start additional training in Working at Heights, Asbestos Awareness and First Aid at Work.

What are your career goals? I plan on working my way up through the grade of engineers, ultimately becoming Technical officer within a few years.

Foundation Degrees

A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical handson experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree.

A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college. They are available in some interesting subjects, such as air transport management.

College Courses

A college course can also be a great route into this sector. To see which colleges have relevant courses in your region check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk.

Useful links .com – Find out about the

www.diplomainretailbusiness Diploma in Retail Business. www.deliveringyourfuture.co.uk – All about careers in Logistics. www.goskills.org – The Sector Skills Council for Transport. www.skillsforlogistics.org – The Sector Skills Council for Logistics. www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web. www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource.

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Stroud College opening doors, opening minds

At Stroud College we positively change peoples lives by delivering high quality education and training. We achieve this within a friendly culture of mutual respect and support for our students, staff, parents and employers. We believe that by opening minds we can open doors. ire ces t ersh u op in Glo t d n a e UK ges in t h e ll o c g formin bes t per n long courses e h t f o o One year olds for 16-18

Stroud College offers courses in...

•

Art & Design

•

Engineering

•

Music Technology

•

•

Creative Games Development

Hair, Beauty & Complementary Therapies

•

Computing & IT

•

Make up Artistry

•

Business & Administration

•

Health, Care and Early Years

•

Construction Skills

•

Public Services

•

Plumbing

•

Sport

•

Electrical

•

Access to College Education (ACE)

•

Bricklaying

•

•

Carpentry & Joinery

Access to Higher Education

To find out more about how you can apply for one of our courses visit

www.stroud.ac.uk or call 01453 761126

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Hair and Beauty Sector

Over

30%

Of workers in this sector are aged 16-24

This exciting and stylish sector is always looking for young people with proper training….

A job where creativity and personal expression is encouraged

£21,000 (average managerial salary in the sector)

Almost 9% of employers in this sector are reporting skill shortages – they need you!

Want to get paid working in an industry you love?

90% Of workers in the sector are female

Help people feel good and look great!

29

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Hair & Beauty If you have creative flair, style and a desire to help people feel relaxed and good about themselves, then you might want to consider a career in hair and beauty…

We all want to look and feel our best, which is why the UK’s hair and beauty sector makes billions each year (and people will always want to look good, so there’ll always be jobs available). A career in this sector could see you working in a busy salon, a resort spa or even on the set of a fashion shoot.

There are many different paths within this sector, depending on your interests.

All of them require common skills: creativity, the ability to work on your feet for long hours, good hand-eye co-ordination and up-to-date knowledge of what’s in (and what’s out). Most importantly, you’ll need to be good with people and sensitive to their needs.

Here are some of the main areas:

Hairdressing

Part of the fast-moving fashion industry, this covers cutting, styling and colouring all types of hair. Hairdressers begin by training in salons and helping customers improve their look. With talent and experience, many hairdressers go on to prepare models, work on magazine shoots, or even style celebrities!

The UK hairdressing industry is considered the best in the world, so there’s opportunity to travel internationally for successful hairdressers.

Earnings: Training salaries start low (around £10,000), but can increase to around £16,000 with a qualification and experience.

Beauty therapy

This covers treatments and services that enhance a client’s appearance and well-being. It can include anything to simple facials and make-up to more complicated electronic treatments to remove unwanted hair or improve body tone. Some of the treatments, like body massage, aid relaxation and help relieve stress.

Earnings: £12,000 to £17,000 (with experience) a year.

Spa therapy

Spa tourism in England is worth £1.4bn a year and is one of the fastest growing industries. Similar to beauty therapists, spa therapists give treatments that improve appearance and well-being. They offer a full range of treatments to suit a client’s needs, which may include Indian head massage, aromatherapy, holistic treatments and all aspects of heat and wet treatments (like hydrotherapy, sauna and steam). Some therapists may focus on hair and fitness while others on relaxation.

Earnings: £12,000 – £14,000 a year.

Nail services

There are roughly 18,000 businesses that employ nail technicians in the UK. Their job is to improve the appearance and condition of the skin and nails on hands and feet. They offer basic treatments like manicures and pedicures, as well as nail enhancements like wraps and hot wax treatments. Nail technicians are also skilled in creative nail art, which includes air brushing designs on the nail.

Earnings: £10,000 to £15,000 a year.

30

SOUTH WEST focus The hair and beauty sector here is fairly smaller strong; though we have one of the this is 8.5% d roun or-a shares of the sect ors sect all of e shar our than er slightly high and combined, which means that hair loyer beauty is a bigger than average emp from vary or sect this in for us. Roles with most hairdressing to nail technicians, the ns, salo hair common workplaces here are ns. followed by beauty salo

Fast facts

• Around 8% of hair and beauty employees are in the South West. or are • 8.5% of workplaces in this sect located here. de Hair • Beauty schools in the area inclu Tekhé ), nton (Tau t Wes th Academy Sou The and y dem Aca uty Bea and Hair tic Wiltshire School of Beauty and Holis Therapy.

Start learning!

Then Want a course in the South West? ss acce to how out find to turn to page 52 you tell will It us. pect pros 9 14-1 l your loca local who’s offering what course in your area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

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Get qualified!

There are plenty of vocational courses for this sector...

Case Study

Apprenticeships

Charlotte Hamilton

Apprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. You’ll need a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. However some colleges also have in-house salons so you can do an NVQ qualification at college full-time. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2: • Barbering • Beauty Therapy • Hairdressing • Nail Services

Advanced Apprenticeships

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining experience. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Barbering • Beauty Therapy • Hairdressing • Nail Services • Spa Therapy

Diplomas

You can also do a Diploma in Hair and Beauty Studies.

The Diploma basically gives you the opportunity to mix school studies with work related learning, meaning you can gain experience of what a job would be like in the sector whilst still learning subjects and skills that can be applied to any job. For more info on what the Diploma entails check out http://www.habia.org/diploma.

A Levels

A Levels can either lead on to university or onto a Foundation Degree, which are explained below. In this industry a lot of your success will be down to your personality and experience rather than academic qualifications; but if you’re interested in management or a support role, here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Business Studies • Economics • ICT

Foundation Degrees

A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical handson experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree.

A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college. A Foundation Degree could be a good step after working in the sector for some time, for example there is a Foundation Degree in salon and business management.

College Courses

A college course can also be a great route into this sector. To see which colleges have relevant courses in your region check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk.

The opportunity to earn a salary and learn at Stroud College has given Charlotte a great start to her career as a hairdresser. Charlotte’s first taste of hairdressing was doing work experience in Year 10. “I really enjoyed working in the salon and considered looking for a job straight after GCSEs. But I stayed on for sixth form and A levels, and developed my job experience working parttime in a shop.”

A chance conversation when she was getting ready for leavers’ prom night led to Charlotte’s apprenticeship in a busy local hair salon. “I was taken on in September 2010 and have had the chance to get ‘hands on’ straight away learning basic skills to begin with. I enjoy meeting clients, helping in the salon and have been given really good training to develop my knowledge and confidence. I now have two regular clients every week, and have passed most of my assessments for NVQ Level 2, including health and safety, shampoo and conditioning, hair ups, setting and colouring. I now just have cutting and perming left to do.”

Charlotte attends Stroud College one day a week and is enjoying the student experience: “I really enjoy working with friends, as well as the experience of a different salon and meeting new clients. An apprenticeship is a really good way for me to earn and learn, and I’d recommend it as a career path to others.”

Stroud College’s hair and beauty salons – branded ‘Envy’ – are well-equipped, industry-standard salons, with fantastic training facilities for students, and offering a range of hair and beauty treatments to the general public.

For more information about apprenticeships, call Stroud College’s business training team on 0800 0094200 or visit www.coursesforbusinesstraining.co.uk.

See also www.stroud.ac.uk, or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/stroudcol

ks t for all things l lin Usefu int of contac po ful ia.org – A use

www.hab y training. relating to hair and beaut b.

- Careers films on the we k o.u x.c bo www.careers s resource. eer car ine onl r Ou k ia.co.u www.opendoorsmed

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www.careerssw.org

Not sure what to do next?

Careers South West can help...

We can help you explore your options and help you make decisions.

Whether you want to know more about university, apprenticeships or taking a gap year we will listen to you and give you the information, guidance and support you need to pursue your ideas.

You can speak to one of our advisers in school or college, at one of our Careers South West centres, or by phone on 0800 9755111 For more information check out our website www.careerssw.org Our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/connexionscd Or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/connexionscd

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IT & TELECOMS SECTOR

826,700

Employees in IT & Telecoms sector in the UK

673,900

IT & Telecoms employees working in other sectors in the UK

IT & Telecoms is vital to every sector

Senior web designers can expect to earn up to ÂŁ43,000 per year!

92% Of job vacancies require basic IT skills!

Over half a million new IT & Telecoms professionals are needed in the next 5 years!

Employers love candidates who are good on computers

ÂŁ38,500 per year (Average

salary for full-time IT professionals)

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

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

This sector can be broken down into two main areas:

IT

Telecoms

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

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

IT trainer – These people make courses to teach clients how to use computers and different applications. They train people of all abilities and backgrounds and will generally specialise in a particular area, which could be anything from technical training to general use of applications like MS Office.

Salary: starting around £18,000.

Telecoms technician – The people who install, test and repair telecommunication systems like telephone and broadband cabling. This can range from installing home satellite systems to working on communications for large companies and corporations.

Salary: starting between £12,000 and £15,000.

Web designer – These designers use a mixture of technical and creative skills to build websites that look good, function well and are user-friendly. Many web designers work independently but those working in companies may be in a team with programmers and other specialists.

Salary: starting between £16,000 and £20,000.

Customer service – The people who assist contract holders and users with any enquires, from billing to technical problems. Similarly to helpdesk assistants communication skills are required in order to help people.

Salary: starting between £14,000 and £16,000.

As you can imagine, almost every organisation and business out there uses computers as part of their daily operations.

In the UK, 21 million people use IT at work every day! From hospitals and power stations to charities and banks, IT is found in all parts of life. The IT industry is all about computers and information systems – designing them, developing them, making them, selling them and installing them.

Software developer – These people design computer programmes and applications that help businesses work more effectively, such as bookkeeping software. Working on anything from these business applications to games these roles are highly complex and technical.

Salary: starting between £20,000 and £26,000.

Helpdesk assistant – Offering support to IT users with technical difficulties. This role requires good communication skills and the ability to explain problems clearly, as well as technical knowledge.

Salary: starting between £14,000 and £17,000.

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

SOUTH WEST Focus The IT and telecoms sec tor isn’t just a sector on its own, IT is used in most job roles in some way. It is beneficia l to have IT skills as they are required for a lot of different jobs in various sectors.

The good news is that the number of employee s in this sector is expected to grow by nea rly 4 times the region’s average, with an estimated 45,000 IT pro fessionals needed in the next 5 years.

Fast facts

• 1 in 20 South West employees work in this sector.

• Nearly 2 million South West workers use IT in their everyday job.

• 92% of job vacancies require candidates with IT user skills.

Start learning!

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Want a course in the So uth West? Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access you r local 14-19 prospectu s. It will tell you who’s offering what cou rse in your local area, or you could visit www.opendoorsmed ia.co.uk

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Get qualified!

There are plenty of vocational and academic routes into this sector...

Apprenticeships

If you’re aged 16 or over, you could take an Apprenticeship in IT services & development, telecoms, or IT user. You’ll do half of your learning on the job and half in the classroom with a college or training provider, picking up qualifications along the way. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, both of these are NVQ level 2: • IT and Telecoms Professionals • IT User

Advanced Apprenticeships

Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining employment experience. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3: • Information and Library Services • IT and Telecoms Professionals • IT User You can also do a Higher Apprenticeship, NVQ level 4 in: • ICT Professionals

A Levels

A Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below.

In this industry demonstrating that you’re handy with computers is an obvious advantage; however technical roles may require other skills too. Here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction: • Computing • Design & Technology – Systems and Control • ICT

Foundation Degrees

CASE STUDy Skills Development Training at Huish

By Jim King (January 2011) I am doing the Business IT course to update my knowledge and understanding of IT in the workplace. I have been unemployed for 18 months and have been unable to secure employment as my previous IT experience had not prepared me for the changes that have happened within the industry. Because of the length of time I have been unemployed I am eligible to do this course through the New Deal offered at the Job Centre and am currently a third of the way through the ECDL training programme.

The Advanced ECDL or European Computer Driving Licence takes a year to complete in full. There are two compulsory modules and I have completed 3 of a total of 6 modules.

I really enjoy Richard Huish College as the facilities are very modern and well equipped. The teachers are really helpful and I can work the hours that I wish and can be as flexible as I want. I can log in and work from home if I want but the college is always accessible and the people are very friendly.

I believe that anyone’s prospects will improve dramatically by doing this course and there are a number of other courses that you could choose which are shorter and target more specific needs such as book keeping.

Anyone who is employed at the moment will be getting up to date training in IT but if you aren’t it is worth having a look at what is on offer at Richard Huish College as you can build your training around your personal life. For me, as I am unemployed at the moment, it is also an effective use of my time and has improved my confidence and self-esteem.

For more information call 01823 320800 or visit www.huish.ac.uk

You can also do a foundation degree in Information Technology. A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical handson experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from honours degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college.

College Courses

A college course can also be a great route into this sector. To see which colleges have relevant courses in your region check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk.

Useful links Skills Council for this industry.

www.e-skills.com - The Sector www.microsoft.com/uk - Microsoft UK. www.comptia.org - Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). www.bigambition.co.uk - Big Ambition. www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web. www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource.

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Imagine a Career...

Helping to cure life threatening diseases Making big money deals

Cooking five-star meals

Travelling around the world

Fitting Repairing sports shop Renovating fronts cars old houses

Organising holidays

Working behind the scenes in TV

Designing websites

Saving the planet

Caring for animals Leading outdoor expeditions

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Your career, your choice Wondering what other careers are out there?

Here are some of the other sectors in your region...

Armed Forces

Britain’s armed forces – the Army, Royal Navy, RAF and MoD – all invest a lot in their personnel to give them an education that’s relevant in the civilian world as well as in the services.

They all offer Apprenticeships so recruits can earn nationally recognised trade qualifications alongside their regular training.

For example, a cook for the Royal Navy could also complete a chef Apprenticeship. Each organisation offers different schemes, so visit their websites for more details.

Salary: Starting around £13,400 the first year, with excellent benefits and progression.

Qualifications: The armed forces offer Apprenticeships in many areas, including Engineering, Fitting, Maintenance, Cookery, IT, Admin, Marine Engineering and more.

Construction

Its more than just bricks and mortar. The construction industry is worth billions and builds the world around us, from hospitals and houses to bridges and football stadiums. One of the most popular ways into this career is the Construction Apprenticeship Scheme, which takes two years for a Level 2 award, and one more year for

38

the Level 3 qualification. To apply, you’ll need to have found an employer that will sponsor you.

Job roles: Bricklayer, labourer, joiner, painter and decorator, plasterer.

Salary: Apprentices can expect to earn around £8,700 the first year, £11,600 the next, and £15,350 the third year.

Qualifications: Construction Apprenticeships; Foundation Degrees.

Creative, Digital & Media This sector covers a range of exciting and creative careers in TV, film, graphics, publishing and journalism. Production assistants help out on television and film sets; graphic designers create adverts and billboards; journalists write news stories; publishers print books and magazines; and photographers shoot and edit images. If you thrive on a creative buzz, there’s no better industry to be in.

Competition for jobs is high so work experience is highly recommended.

Job roles: Graphic designer, web designer, production assistant, editing assistant, photographer assistant.

Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £17,000.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Creative and Digital Media; Foundation Degrees from Creative Writing to Animation.

Customer Service & Admin

Any business that wants to be successful has to make its customers happy. From helping a shopper find the right size at Topshop to answering customer queries at a BT call centre, customer service jobs come in all shapes and sizes.

Another thing businesses can’t function without is effective admin. Administrators are responsible for running the daily operations of the office. They answer the phone, input data, type up letters and anything else that needs to be done. Since administration and customer service are needed in most organisations, you could work across many different sectors.

Job roles: Admin assistant, office junior, personal assistant, customer service representative.

Salary: Starting anywhere between £13,000 and £18,000 per year.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Customer Service and Business & Admin; Foundation Degree in Customer Service Management.

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Energy & Renewables

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

Job roles: Gas network engineer, gas service technician, wastewater plant worker, process operator, decommissioning operative.

Salary: Starting anywhere between £12,000 and £20,000 a year.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Gas, Nuclear and Utilities; Foundation Degrees, including Power Distribution.

Engineering

At the heart of every technological advance is an engineer. Chemical engineers create new fuels to keep vehicles moving; civil engineers design our railways and roads; and aerospace engineers design the most modern aircraft. Engineers use problem solving, creativity and imagination to come up with answers to problems.

The main challenge is doing more with less. How can they make something more cheaply, quickly and effectively than ever before? Engineering is one of the most varied sectors out there, with specialist areas like chemical, mechanical, electrical, aerospace, marine and defence.

Job roles: Maintenance fitter, welder, mechanical engineering technician.

Salary: Starting anywhere between £15,000 and £18,000 per year.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Engineering; Foundation Degrees.

Environmental & Land-based

This broad sector offers lots of opportunities to make a difference to the planet, from farming and protecting wildlife to looking after parks and conservation. The main areas within this sector are: Horticulture & landscaping, Agriculture, Animal care, Environmental conservation, and Land-based engineering.

Salary: Starting between £12,000 and £18,000. Landscape engineers make between £20,000 and £26,000 a year.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships from Animal Care to Agriculture; Foundation Degrees.

Food & Drink

Food and drink is one of the largest industries in the UK – in fact, it even helped pull the country out of the recession.

This sector is about taking what’s grown by farmers and transforming it into our favourite foods and beverages. It takes a lot of people working together to make this happen, which means loads of career paths on offer. You could be processing ingredients, fixing machines on the production floor, processing meat, baking cakes or testing quality.

Job roles: Production operative, bottling operative, baker, warehouse worker.

Salary: Starting between £11,000 and £17,000 a year.

Qualifications: Food Manufacture Apprenticeships; Foundation Degree in Food & Drink Management.

Manufacturing

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

Job roles: Production and process engineers, technicians, maintenance engineers, welders and machine setters.

Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £18,000 a year.

Qualifications: Manufacturing Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees.

39

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Somerset College

Looking for something different when you finish school?

Come and find out why Somerset College is right for you College Information Evening Tuesday 10 January // 5.30pm - 8pm

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Wellington Road, Taunton // 01823 366 331 // www.somerset.ac.uk

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Motor Vehicles

Salary: Starting between This sector deals with all aspects £13,000 and £16,000 a year.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships of cars, vans and motorcycles – selling them, fixing them, servicing and Foundation Degrees in them and even rescuing stranded Public Services. drivers. There are lots of career Retail paths on offer, from technical to Retail is about the sale of products customer service based roles; and services to consumers maintenance and repair; sales; (that’s people like you walking body and paint operations; around the shops). It covers high roadside assistance; and fitting street shops, supermarkets, and selling motor vehicle parts. independent shops, large national chains and more. It’s also one of Job roles: Maintenance and repair technician, sales assistant, the most fun and young industries out there, with more than one fast-fit technician, body repair third of the workforce under 25 technician. years old. Whether your strengths Salary: Starting are creativity or organisation, between£13,000 and £18,000 there’s a role for you in Retail. The per year.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships main areas are: store operations, buying, visual merchandising, and in Motor Vehicles; Engineering management.

Foundation Degrees (Automotive specific).

Job roles: Sales assistant, visual merchandiser, team leader, Public Services buyer.

In this sector, your work could Salary: Starting between help other people and improve £12,000 and £18,000 per year. your local community. Public Qualifications: Apprenticeships services are an essential part and Foundation Degrees in of our society – education, Retailing, Employer sponsored housing, the police, and the traineeships. fire service are all services that the government provides for its citizens (that’s you and us).

In this sector, you could help organise a community arts programme, work for a housing association or support a teacher in the classroom. Your local council is a large employer in this sector. Contact them directly for job vacancies.

Job roles: Classroom assistant, nursery nurse, admin assistant, youth support worker.

Sport & Fitness

Many people think the only way you can get a career in sport is to become a professional athlete or a PE teacher – but this couldn’t be further from the truth. This sector is about promoting health and fitness.

For example, exercise and fitness instructors work for gyms and leisure centres and help people stay fit and healthy.

Sports coaches teach skills and techniques at all levels, from beginner to professional.

Outdoor activity instructors help people enjoy themselves in the great outdoors and operations managers make sure gyms and leisure centres run smoothly.

Job roles: Personal trainer, fitness instructor, swimming coach, leisure centre assistant, playworker.

Salary: Starting around £12,000 and can rise to £25,000 with experience and qualifications.

Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching; Foundation Degree in Playworking.

Travel & Hospitality

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

Job roles: Travel agent, waiter, trainee chef, air cabin crewmember.

Salary: Starting between £11,000 and £16,000 a year.

Qualifications: Travel Services and Hospitality & Catering Apprenticeships; Foundation Degrees in Hospitality Management.

Start Learning

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

41 41

How do I get to work in a theatre? What opportunities are available to me? What grades do I need?

How do I get to work in a theatre? What opportunities are available to me? What grades do I need?

All of these questions and more can be answered at www.getintotheatre.org, where you’ll find the latest training and job opportunities, advice from professionals already in the industry and loads more...

What are the best routes into the live music industry? What roles are there? Where can I find work experience opportunites?

All of these questions and more can be answered at www.getintolivemusic.org, where you’ll find advice from industry professionals, the opportunity to ask them questions, training & workshop events and loads more...

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Spotlight on THE SOUTH WEST The South West has the second largest Creative Industries sector outside London

2.25 million (South West’s total workforce)

Home to 4 world heritage sites, including Stonehenge

The best region to work and live in! (according to the Financial Times)

14.3% Percentage of the workforce in Manufacturing

26 million Tourists (visit the So uth West each year)

Home to Lucozade, New look and the National Trust

£95 billion The size of the region’s economy

...AND SO MUCH MORE! 43

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Your region Take a look at some of the major opportunities in the South West

Devon Petroc, Key colleges: Bicton College, City College Plymouth, Exeter College, Plymouth College of Art, South Devon College.

Key universities: University of Exeter, Plymouth University, UCP Marjon. and more Traditionally an agricultural county Devon’s cities are becoming more and cities big Devon’s of important in providing employment. Plymouth is one being as well as nities opportu ent traditionally has lots of maritime employm the head office location for Air Southwest. Exeter is also vital, and is now and home to the Met Office, the guys responsible for forecasting the national career provide do they but international weather; they might not always get it right, s. opportunities for many Devon resident to Like much of the South West, Devon relies a lot on its tourism industry of the part parks, national two to home is county The ent. employm provide e ‘dinosaur’ coast and world heritage sites as well as the obviously attractiv These custard. ia Ambros famous world as coastline and seaside towns. As well r custome including tourism, of areas various in jobs of attractions provide plenty retail. and service

Wiltshire Somerset

Cornwall Key colleges: Cornwall College, Truro and Penwith College.

Falmouth.

Key university: University College

Cornwall, Key employers: Eden Project, Visit Cornwall Council, Ginsters ll.futures4me.co.uk/ 14-19 prospectus: http://cornwa

Gloucestershire

Bristol and Bath

Key employers: The Met Office, Devon County Council, Ambrosia 14-19 prospectus: http://www.options4me.co.uk/

ent is tourism; Cornwall’s biggest industry at the mom y ever year, mainly the area brings in 5 million tourists ctive coastline, attra s British holidaymakers. Cornwall’ lots of people bring ens gard try historic sites and coun some ple sam to ths, mon mer in, during the sum biggest ty’s coun traditional Cornish ice cream. The Eden the is rs visito attraction in terms of volume of cts attra and 1 200 in ned Project which was ope visitors from around the world. probably its Cornwall’s fastest growing sector is areas ranging us vario creative sector, which includes sorts of all to y aph togr pho from architecture and and web g, agin pack ding inclu types of design y historical man as too age herit e som has It graphic. centuries have lived authors and writers from previous s. iece terp here to work on their mas

WELC OME TO TH SOUT E H WE ST

Devon

Cornwall

Dorset

Wiltshire Key colleges: New College Swindon , Swindon College, Wiltshire College.

Wiltshire has a long-running manufac turing industry that continues to grow throughout toug h economic times, 13% of the county’s employment is in this sector. There’s no limit to the type of manufacture either as Wiltshire produces all sorts of products from food and hou sehold to automotive engineering and industrial. ICT and creative industries are also growing as they receive relatively high investment and Wiltshire is home to international companies, such as Honda, Intel and Motorola.

This county is also home to a fair few beauty spots too, the Cotswolds, West Wiltshire Dow ns and North Wessex Downs, these areas of outstanding natural beauty bring in plenty of tourism, which provides near ly 20,000 jobs.

Key employers: Virgin Mobile, Dys on, Honda 14-19 prospectus: swinwilts.futures4 me.co.uk

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Somerset

Gloucestershire

Norton Radstock Key colleges: Bridgewater College, erset College of Som ge, College, Richard Huish Colle Weston College, ge, Colle de Stro gy, Arts and Technolo Yeovil College.

Key colleges: Cirencester College, Filton College, Gloucestershire College, Hartpury College, Stroud College of Further Education.

Key university: The University of Gloucestershire.

stry. It is home to Somerset has a booming tourism indu tal towns, part coas ctive attra us Cheddar Gorge, vario West Somerset of the Exmoor National Park and the s Glastonbury, host it Railway. Perhaps most famously, performing arts and ic mus d the world’s largest Greenfiel r (Thatchers) cide for us famo also is ty festival. The coun and food (Yeo Valley) production too. of focus is However like many rural areas a lot industry. bles ewa Ren and being put on the Energy Project (a esis Gen n millio £2.5 the to e Somerset is hom centre) ing learn sustainable construction scheme and on in the stati er pow ear and will be building the first nucl ! jobs of lots ting crea – UK for 20 years in Hinkley tive crea in ities ortun opp new of lots There are also location for people industries as Somerset is the perfect continued and life who want an improved quality of to Bristol and time mute com t business success. The shor to this. vital all are on, Lond and pe Bath, as well as Euro , Dairycrest, Key employers: The Royal Marines Yeo Valley Organic t.gov.uk/ 14-19 prospectus: www.six.somerse

Dorset

outh and Poole College, Key colleges: Bournem e. llege, Weymouth Colleg Kingston Maurward Co e lleg Co y rsit ive Un s Art Key universities: The outh University.

Bournemouth, Bournem ry which growing tourism indust Dorset has a large and to inly lion tourists a year, ma brings in around 3-4 mil % 65 s; job 0 provides 37,50 its beautiful coastline, and in eer car a it’s if so coastline, of these jobs are on the e of the st is the place to be. On coa the nt, wa tourism you ge rita He Jurassic Coast World major attractions is the many as ost alm osaur fossils and Site, home to a lot of din es. employment opportuniti st for the county is the We yer plo em e larg er Anoth ys plo NHS Trust which em Dorset General Hospitals ious different areas of the var in about 2,500 people city, trally to Dorset’s largest health sector. More cen ess sin bu in de tra ing a boom Bournemouth, there is becoming ce sin ess acc t rne inte tourism. With plenty of been in 2008 Bournemouth has Britain’s first ‘Fibrecity’ lude inc s itor Vis s. ate ess deleg a key venue for big busin First.

Lloyds TSB and Fitness names like JP Morgan, rlin s Insurance Services, Me Key employers: Unisy S Trust NH tals spi Ho al rset Gener Entertainments, West Do o/ p://www.lookingahead.inf 14-19 prospectus: htt

Due to its location in the beautiful Cotswolds Gloucestershire has lots of opportunities in the leisure and tourism industry. There are a huge 23,600 employees in the industry working in hotels, restaurants, bars and pubs, as people flock to the ‘typically English’ villages.

Gloucestershire is not just quaint countryside. The aerospace industry has always been a big employer in Gloucestershire, in fact 11,000 people work in aerospace related jobs. These job roles can vary from designing Airbus wings to manufacturing military jet engines. Advanced Engineering employs 7,800 people in the county.

21% of South Gloucestershire’s working population actually commute to Bristol, because it is the second wealthiest city in England, behind London, and offers a huge amount of career opportunities.

Key employers: Ministry of Defence, Airbus UK, Kraft Foods, Endsleigh Insurance, Orange 14-19 prospectus: www.movingupgloucestershire.com

Bristol and Bath Key colleges: City of Ba th College, City of Bristo l College, Norton Radstock Colleg e, St Brendan’s Sixth Fo rm College.

Key universities: Unive rsity of Bath, Bath Spa University, University of Bristol, Un iversity of the West of En gland.

Bristol As a major seaport Bristo l has a long history of tra ding, but in the modern day the city’s economy is bu ilt on the aerospace industry, defen ce, the media, informatio n technology and financial services sectors, and tou rism.

Easily commutable from neighbouring areas, suc h as Gloucester, Somerset and Bath, the size of Bristol means it ranks as one of the top cities for opportunities in the UK. The financial servic es sector employs 59,00 0 people (second only to London in the South) and the 9 million visitors each year means it has a booming tourism industry.

Bath Bath’s principle industry is tourism. As a recogniz ed world heritage site, mo st famous for its Roman Bath’s, the picturesque city offe rs employment opportu nities from open top bus tours to spas and hotels. Oth er big employers in Bath includ e the NHS and the local council, and there are higher ed ucation opportunities ava ilable with two Universities.

14-19 prospectus: htt p://www.futurefinder.org. uk/

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In The SOUTH WEST...

There are lots of people in the South West employed in tourism, creative industries and financial services. Oh, and the region is vital to the UK’s agricultural production...

Bristol accounts for ¼ of the whole region’s economy

de and Wholesale tra est rg la e th retail is e region th in er oy pl em

Tourism plays a key role in the region, especially for Devon and Cornwall

South West Engla nd is home to the lar gest microelectronics sector in Europe

% OF SOUTH WEST WORKFORCE IN EACH INDUSTRY Agriculture, forestry and fishing Mining and quarrying Manufacturing Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning Water supply; sewerage, waste management Construction Wholesale and retail trade; repair of vehicles Transportation and storage Accommodation and food service activities Information and communication Financial and insurance activities Real estate activities Professional, scientific and technical activities Administrative and support service activities Public administration and defence Education Human health and social work activities Arts, entertainment and recreation Other service activities 0

South West England is renowned across the world for bio manufacture, bio diagnostics and marine biotechnology

There are over 32,000 businesses in the environmental and land-based indu stries

5

10

15

re no place is As you’d expect from a region whe South West sea, the from s mile 40 more than than arch rese England leads the world in marine

above the national The South West is well ployment and training average for people in em

47

WELBECK DEFENCE SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

WHERE LEARNING MEETS ADVENTURE.

AND ENGINEERS MEET THEIR FUTURE.

der d a L r e e r a C e h t Climb ship e c i t n e r p p A n a h wit es you the The website also giv ch and apply opportunity to sear vacancies. for Apprenticeship e are At any one time ther ailable in a thousands of jobs av ctors across variety of industry se ply for as England. You can ap many as you like. e increasingly Apprenticeships ar ld standard recognised as the go rning. There are for work-based lea l na tio Na al nu ent types of This year the fifth an more than 200 differ ce pla s ke ta k itable for over Apprenticeship Wee Apprenticeships su s te ra leb ce d an range of from 6-10 February 1,200 job roles, in a is .It try un co e th m engineering apprentices across industry sectors, fro t ou d fin to y nit veterinary an excellent opportu to financial advice, so s, hip es tic ncy. more about Appren nursing to accounta re tu fu ur yo g if you’re considerin is excellent for path then why not Career progression options and career en er the course s event or op apprentices, and ov go along to a career e with an hips.org.uk of their careers, thos day? At apprentices ce , on average, at’s taking pla Apprenticeship earn you can find out wh those without. £100,000 more than near you. s already Some Apprenticeship or s allow you to attract UCAS point al Certificate. study for a Technic eship has Once the Apprentic opportunity to finished there’s the aybe get carry on working, m to higher promoted or go on ge or university. education in a colle Key Benefits: • earn a salary • get paid holidays • receive training s • gain qualification skills ic cif • learn job-spe

ght about Have you ever thou eship? tic starting an Appren rn, gain lea u You earn while yo rk wo d a variety of skills an ised gn co re towards nationally u to yo le ab en qualifications that er. re ca en os progress in your ch ; ny pa m You’ll be in good co lf a million there are over a ha g in England. apprentices workin

What types of are there?

Apprenticeship

rg.uk

o apprenticeships.

sed includes a work-ba An Apprenticeship a , ills sk al on cti , fun learning qualification me so in d an on ati fic ali knowledge-based qu rtificate. cases a technical ce (level 2) vel Apprenticeship • Intermediate Le l 3) ve (le hip l Apprentices • Advanced Leve e) ov ab or 4 l ve eship (le • Higher Apprentic

Apprentice T riumphs at WorldSkill s London 201 1 Chris’s story…

Chris Berridge, 22, a stonemas on and past ap who works for prentice from C Harveystone, tri rewkerne, umphed at the competition ther largest global sk e is, WorldSkill ills s London 2011 stonemasonry. , winning the go He was part of ld medal in Te am UK who co competitors fro mpeted agains m 52 countries t 1, /re 000 gions, watched over the four da by over 200,00 ys of tough com 0 visitors petition they ha d to complete.

Chris said: “It is an amazing feel in g at stonemason to be crowned ry. This is what the best in the I’ve been trainin world just so pleased g for all this tim I’ve been able to e, an d I am m ake my family, fri and all those w ho have suppor ends, training m te anager d me along the w importantly, I ho ay, so proud. Ju pe my success st w as ill options and that inspire others to I’ve managed to think about thei r sh career them. I’d definite ow everyone th at there are op ly say that a ca tions for reer in stonemas onry is very rew Team UK consis arding!” ted of 43 compe titors aged 19 -2 ranging from M 4 obile Robotics, competing in 37 Electronics and skills Challenge throug Manufacturing h to Landscape Team Gardening, Coo Two in three Te king and Brickl am UK Membe aying. rs were current or fo rmer apprentic For more inform es. ation and to be inspired by othe Team UK visit www.worldskill r apprentices in steamuk.org

National Apprentic eship Week 6 - 10 February 20 12

Useful Stuff

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useful links directory Online 14-19 Prospectuses Bath & North East Somerset www.futurefinder.org.uk Bournemouth www.lookingahead.info Cornwall cornwall.futures4me.co.uk Bristol City www.futurefinder.org.uk Devon www.options4me.co.uk Dorset www.lookingahead.info Isles of scilly cornwall.futures4me.co.uk

St Brendan’s Sixth Form College www.stbrn.ac.uk 0117 977 7766

DORSET Bournemouth and Poole College www.thecollege.co.uk 01202 205205

CORNWALL

Kingston Maurward College www.kmc.ac.uk 01305 215000

Cornwall College www.cornwall.ac.uk 0845 2232567

Weymouth College www.weymouth.ac.uk 01305 761100

Duchy College www.cornwall.ac.uk/duchy 01209 722100

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Truro and Penwith College www.truro-penwith.ac.uk 01872 267000

Gloucestershire College www.gloscol.ac.uk 0845 155 2020

DEVON

Hartpury College www.hartpury.ac.uk 01452 702345

Bicton College www.bicton.ac.uk 01395 562400

National Star College www.natstar.ac.uk 01242 527631

City College Plymouth www.cityplym.ac.uk 01752 305300

Ruskin Mill College www.rmet.org.uk 01453 837500

Exeter College www.exe-coll.ac.uk 0845 111 6000 Petroc www.petroc.ac.uk 01271 345291

Stroud College www.stroudcol.ac.uk 01453 763424

BRISTOL

Plymouth College of Art www.plymouthart.ac.uk 01752 203434

Bridgwater College www.bridgwater.ac.uk 01278 455464

City of Bristol College www.cityofbristol.ac.uk 0117 312 5000

South Devon College www.southdevon.ac.uk 08000 380123

City of Bath College www.citybathcoll.ac.uk 01225 312191

North Somerset www.futurefinder.org.uk Plymouth www.findacourse4me.co.uk Poole www.lookingahead.info South Gloucestershire www.futurefinder.org.uk Torbay www.options4me.co.uk Wiltshire swinwilts.futures4me.co.uk

Colleges

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Filton College www.filton.ac.uk 0117 931 2121

SOMERSET

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Cornwall Council www.cornwall.gov.uk

Stroud District Council www.stroud.gov.uk

Cotswold District Council www.cotswold.gov.uk

Swindon Borough Council www.swindon.gov.uk

Devon County Council www.devon.gov.uk

Taunton Deane Borough Council www.tauntondeane.gov.uk

Dorset County Council www.dorsetforyou.com county

Teignbridge District Council www.teignbridge.gov.uk

East Devon District Council www.eastdevon.gov.uk

Tewkesbury Borough Council www.tewkesburybc.gov.uk

East Dorset District Council www.dorsetforyou.com east

Torbay Council www.torbay.gov.uk

Forest of Dean District Council www.fdean.gov.uk

Torridge District Council www.torridge.gov.uk

Yeovil College www.yeovil.ac.uk 01935 423921

Gloucester City Council www.gloucester.gov.uk

West Devon Borough Council www.westdevon.gov.uk

WILTSHIRE

Gloucestershire County Council www.gloucestershire.gov.uk

West Dorset District Council www.dorsetforyou.com

Mendip District Council www.mendip.gov.uk

West Somerset District Council www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk

Mid Devon District Council www.middevon.gov.uk

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council www.weymouth.gov.uk

Norton Radstock College www.nortcoll.ac.uk 01761 433161 Richard Huish College www.richuish.ac.uk 01823 320800 Somerset College www.somerset.ac.uk 01823 366331 Strode College www.strode-college.ac.uk 01458 844400 Weston College www.weston.ac.uk 01934 411411

Cirencester College www.cirencester.ac.uk 01285 640994 New College Swindon www.newcollege.ac.uk 01793 611470 Swindon College www.swindon-college.ac.uk 0800 7312250 Wiltshire College www.wiltshire.ac.uk 01225 35 00 35

Local Councils Bath and North East Somerset Council www.bathnes.gov.uk Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk Borough of Poole Council www.boroughofpoole.com Bournemouth Borough Council www.bournemouth.gov.uk Cheltenham Borough Council www.cheltenham.gov.uk

North Devon Council www.northdevon.gov.uk North Dorset District Council www.dorsetforyou.com North Somerset District Council www.n-somerset.gov.uk Plymouth City Council www.plymouth.gov.uk Purbeck District Council www.dorsetforyou.com purbeck Sedgemoor District Council www.sedgemoor.gov.uk Somerset County Council www.somerset.gov.uk South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk South Hams District Council www.southhams.gov.uk South Somerset District Council www.southsomerset.gov.uk

Wiltshire Council www.wiltshire.gov.uk

Other Useful Sites Careers Advice www.careersadvice.direct.gov.uk Careers Box www.careersbox.co.uk Jobcentre Plus www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk National Apprenticeship Service www.apprenticeships.org.uk Skill www.skill.org.uk The South West Apprenticeship Company www.theswac.org.uk Work Experience www.work-experience.org

Christchurch Borough Council www.dorsetforyou.com Christchurch

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Choose a future...

Applied Science Apprenticeships Business Care Studies Catering & Hospitality Construction & Allied Trades Digital & Creative Media Engineering & Automotive Foundation Learning Hair & Beauty Music & Performing Arts Sport & Public Services Travel & Tourism

Vocational courses are workrelated qualifications which are designed to give you the skills that employers are looking for.

Some BTEC qualifications also allow progression to university.

Courses are FREE for 16-18 year olds and financial help may be available through the College Bursary funds.

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