Study & Careers Magazine - July 2020

STUDY & CAREERS MAGAZINE

TRANSITIONING FROM STUDYING TO WORKING

Getting ready for results day UCAS Clearing

Personality Tests How to secure an apprenticeship role

CONTENTS 04 GCSE & A LEVEL RESULTS

06 APPRENTICESHIPS

08

TRAINEESHIPS

12 14 T-LEVELS

04

HOW TO MAXIMISE YOUR POTENTIAL

2

PROFIL | Magazine Template

16

MYERS-BRIGGS PERSONALITY TEST

PERSONALITY TESTS

18

20 TRANSITIONING FROM STUDYING TO WORKING

GET IN TOUCH WITH US

24

HOW UNI CLEARING WORKS

STUDY & CAREERS HUB 03333 44 35 44 publications@studycareershub.com

28 TIPS FOR UCAS

www.studycareershub.com

TO SURVIE FIRST DAYS 30 HOW AT COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY LABOUR MARKET 34 UK INFORMATION

34 LMI

EDITORIAL POLICY The views, comments statements and opinions are not necessarily those of Study & Careers Magazine. Study & Careers Magazine will accept no responsibility for any loss incurred by any person or organisation as a result of using any material from this publication.

3

GSCE & A LEVEL RESULTS

GCSE & A LEVEL GRADES STUDENT CONCERNS OVER THAT 40% GRADES TO BE MODERATED DOWNWARDS

I 4

PROFIL Study & Careers | Magazine Magazine Template

A level results day is Thursday 13 August 2020 whilst GCSE results will come out a week later on August 20. SQA grades will be released on Tuesday 4 August 2020.

There are growing concerns of a potential results-day student outcry, as over two fifths of GCSE and A-level grades are at risk of being moderated downwards. Mathematical modelling experts have expressed that teacher-assessed GCSE and A-level grades may have been more generous and relatively inflated compared to previous years. Reports and modelling by Ofqual and exam boards also suggest an alarming disparity, hence the need to use statistical modelling to standardise the results on the basis of the school/centre’s historical performance. Ofqual have clearly warned that schools’ historic performance in subjects are likely to carry more weight than “optimistic” teacher-assessed grades.

A level results day is Thursday 13 August 2020 whilst GCSE results will come out a week later on August 20. SQA grades will be released on Tuesday 4 August 2020. Schools and exam boards are already bracing themselves for a really tense and controversial results day, potential student backlash and an increased number of queries.

The cancellation of this summer’s exams resulted in schools being asked to submit a teacher-assessed grade for each pupil as well as a rank order of their students at each grade for each subject. Exam boards will then use Ofqual’s standardisation model to moderate the grades and ensure they stay in line at national and school subject level. This involves using the school’s historic achievement, which if necessary, is used to adjust grades where they appear to be significantly inflated.

5

APPRENTICESHIPS Ap p r e n t i c e s h i p s c o m b i n e p r a c t i c a l j o b t r a i n i n g w i t h s t u d y. Yo u ’ l l b e employed to do a real job whilst studying for a formal qualification.

The study part is usually for one day a week either at a college or a training centre, and the rest of the time you will be working full-time like a normal employee. To apply for an apprenticeship, you need to be 16 or over, living in the United Kingdom and not in full-time education.

Why choose an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship offers the chance to gain skills, qualifications and experience whilst earning a wage. It’s a great compromise between entering the workforce straight after school and earning a qualification to set you up in your chosen industry. It’s also a great opportunity to see whether this is the industry you want to pursue. As an apprentice, you’ll avoid student loans, as the government and your employer cover the entire cost of your training! Despite the low minimum wage for apprentices, you may find yourself financially better off than your friends who went to uni as you’ll be able to start putting money away without worrying about student debt.

Working hours and pay: Apprenticeships are paid, and you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage which the government can decide to change as and when they see fit. Apprenticeships hourly rate is a lot lower than a regular full time job. This is to help your employer cover the costs of your training.

This rate applies to all apprentices in their first year, and apprentices aged 19 or over are paid a higher minimum wage after their first year.

You’ll work full-time and your study time is usually part of your paid hours.

Length of apprenticeships: Apprenticeships usually take between one and four years to complete. The length of the apprenticeship depends on a number of factors, such as the level of education, your chosen sector, employer requirements and your individual ability.

Qualifications What you’ll learn will depend on the role that you will be training for. Apprentices in every role follow an approved study curriculum, which means you’ll gain a nationally-recognised qualification at the end of your apprenticeship. These qualifications are available from the equivalent to GCSE-level all the way up to degree level.

The qualifications can include: Functional skills - GCSE-level qualifications in English, Maths and IT National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) from Level 2 (comparable to five GCSEs) up to Level 5 (similar to a postgraduate degree) Technical certificates - such as BTEC, City and Guild Progression Award etc Academic qualifications - including a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND) foundation degree or the equivalent of a full master’s degree.

Type of Apprenticeships Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of different industries. Most job sectors offer apprenticeship opportunities in the UK, with a wide range of specific roles on offer within each.

These include: Business apprenticeships in roles such as accounting, marketing, people/HR administration, recruitment and sales. A lot of these will also be available in other sectors as everything from the NHS to engineering firms need the skills business apprenticeships offer.

Law apprenticeships offered at legal executive or solicitor level.

IT apprenticeships in roles such as software development and cyber security Healthcare apprenticeships in roles such as dental, nursing and youth work, in addition to NHS apprenticeships that can fall under other sectors, such as accounting and administration.

Engineering apprenticeships in roles such as civil engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering Construction apprenticeships in roles such as building, plumbing and quantity surveying.

Media apprenticeships in roles such as journalism, live events and costume design.

‘89% of employers say they’d do an apprenticeship if they were starting their career again.’

Highest paid apprenticeships: Apprentices in the Legal sector can expect the highest pay, an average salary of £23,904.

Engineering placements follow close behind, with an average salary of £22,512 on offer for apprenticeship schemes. The Accounting and Finance is a popular sector in apprenticeships, with advertised salaries starting from £17,988.

Benefits of an apprenticeship Apprenticeships are designed to enhance your competency and confidence by developing your practical skills and knowledge.

By doing an apprenticeship, you benefit from the following: • • • • • • •

Working alongside experienced staff Gaining a nationally recognised qualification and experience, both of which are highly attractive to employers Taking a fast route into your career Getting paid holidays (including bank holidays) Learning how to behave in a professional environment Developing your independence in a supported environment Earning while you’re learning

7

What is a traineeship?

A traineeship is a work preparation education and training programme with an integrated work experience scheme and incorporates Maths and English tuition and support for those lacking the required grades.

TRAINEESHIPS The course does not only get 16 to 24 year olds work-ready but is often used as a ‘stepping-stone’ or ‘back-door’ avenue towards an apprenticeship or full-time job if you impress the employer. So if you do well, there may even be a opportunity for job/apprenticeship at the end of your traineeship.

It can last anything from 6 weeks to 6 months. There are no fees to be paid.

Most traineeships do not pay a salary but may cover your travel and food costs. You may be able to apply for funding with the 16-19 Bursary Fund or Universal Credit.

To qualify, you need to be

•

Eligible to work in the UK

•

Keen and motivated to work

•

Unemployed or working less than 16 hours a week

•

Having little or no work experience

•

Aged 16 to 24 with

•

Having no qualifications above level 2 (GCSE/N5 or equivalent

On-the-job Work Experience Placement A crucial opportunity to get hands on practical experience with an established employer. Develop quality employability and transferrable skills in a professional environment with experienced members of staff.

Work Preparation Training – covers everything from writing CVs, cover letters, completing application forms to interview preparation. Most courses also include soft skills such as time management, planning,

• https://allaboutapprenticeships.co.uk • https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk

You can also apply for traineeships directly with training providers and employers. The majority of training providers/employers who recruit traineeship candidates tend to be also apprenticeship providers.

Do I get any qualifications?

It varies with the training provider / employer. You may be able to do a Level 1 Award in Employability Skills through OCR / NCE / City & Guilds. Check with your employer / training provider. In addition, if you still need to pass English and Maths, you will have the opportunity to work towards vocational qualifications such as Level 2 Functional Skills in

English & Maths Tuition/Support (if required) – for those who do not

Maths and English or your GCSE Maths

have the right grades - focus on helping you achieve Maths & Eng-

and English.

lish GCSE or Functional Skills Literacy & Numeracy passes.

You may also have a chance of attending various employability and work

How do I apply?

preparation workshops to improve your

A lot of traineeship positions are advertised on websites such as:

CV, cover letter, application and inter-

• https://www.gov.uk/find-traineeship

view preparation techniques. Typical

• https://www.allaboutschoolleavers.co.uk

courses include:

• https://www.ratemyapprenticeship.co.uk • htttps://www.getmyfirstjob.co.uk

Apprenticeships

organising with applications for jobs and school leaver schemes.

TRAINEESHIPS

“

City & Guilds Award in Employability Skills Key modules: 1. Planning for progression 2. Managing personal finance 3. Work-based experience

A FLEXIBLE CHANCE TO TRY A JOB / PROFESSION BEFORE MAKING A LONG-TERM COMMITMENT

6. Interview skills 7. Searching for a job 8. Career progression It varies with each employer. There are generally employers taking on traineeship candidates at any given time throughout the whole year.

A chance to gain essential employability qualifications and skills plus to better your Maths & English grades.

5. Career planning and making applications

An opportunity to gain real work skills and experience to make yourself more employable / work-ready and boost your CV.

4. Effective communication

When Can I

Apply?

Am I guaranteed of an apprenticeship after

further 17% undertake further education” – Depart-

the traineeship?

ment of Education

You are not guaranteed of a job/apprenticeship

“I didn’t have confidence in my skills and was lacking

at the end of a Traineeship. However, a lot of em-

hands-on work experience, making me unemployable.

ployers use traineeships as a way to ‘try before

I received on-the-job training during my traineeship as

you hire’ candidates. Those who impress stand

well as completing a useful OCR’s employability quali-

a higher chance of an Apprenticeship contract

fication. I was also fortunate to be selected to carry on

or full-time job. However, if this doesn’t happen,

as an apprentice, and now I even train other trainees”

you’ll still walk away with invaluable experience,

– Past Trainee

training and quality work-related skills, which are

Why choose to enrol on a traineeship

highly valued by most employers.

•

Why you should consider a traineeship!

“I loved every second of the traineeship. It helped

A smart pathway towards an apprenticeship or fulltime job

•

An opportunity to gain real work skills and expe-

me become work ready and even secured an ap-

rience to make yourself more employable / work-

prenticeship contract at the end of traineeship!” –

ready and boost your CV

Recent Trainee

•

A chance to gain essential employability qualifica-

“Our traineeships are highly flexible programmes

tions and skills plus to better your Maths & English

that recognise that every young person is differ-

grades •

Local, flexible and tailored to candidate needs

designed to cater for specific needs of each indi-

•

A flexible chance to try a job /profession before

vidual” - Employer “Over 50% of Traineeship trainees progress into an apprenticeship or other employment, and a

making a long-term commitment •

An ‘cool’ opportunity to upskill yourself whilst showcasing to a real employer your potential, determination and passion.

Apprenticeships

ent, and thus requires a different level of training

PRIVATE TUITION REDEFINED QUALITY 1-TO-1 TUITION AVAILABLE: • ONLINE • FACE-TO-FACE IN YOUR HOME

03333 44 35 44 info@nationwidetuition.com www.nationwide.com

T

hese are several standardised questions designed to determine one’s personality or emotional status.

They attempt to predict what professions or nature of jobs could suit you. It’s also a good way to understand your strengths and weaknesses and how you relate with your co-workers. Understanding yourself better empowers you to become more self-aware!

Some employers use personality tests to help identify candidates whose character traits are best suit a specific role and how they are likely to behave under certain conditions and in different situations. Such pre-employment testing is aimed at revealing certain aspects of each candidate’s personality and then use that information to predict the compatibility and likelihood that the candidate will excel in that particular po-

sition. Personality tests thus give recruiters a better understanding of the candidate, thus enabling a better judgement of the candidate’s suitability for the position.

Each role is unique and requires a different personality compared to any other role.

Employers look at the core competences for each role and then try to match with the ideal personality trait that perfectly suit the competency’s accomplishment. For instance, a sales role might suit an extrovert, whilst an analyst role might suit a more analytical introvert.

As you might be aware, there is no right or wrong answer in personality tests, so it is important to be as honest as possible. On completion, your score is compared to those of the ideal candidate or a normative group.

Most employers would not make a decision

PERSONALITY TESTS Research the kind of personality test it is, how long it takes, the format of questions and the traits it measures. Thoroughly read the instructions and make sure you fully understand what you are required to do.

based on a personality profile on its own, but the score and the dominant traits may contribute in the recruiter’s wider decision-making process.

What are the benefits of personality tests?

1. They help you in deciding which qualifications to pursue.

2. Employers use them when recruiting, they give them a better understanding of you, how well you will fit in the team and cope with the job.

3. You know yourself better which helps you when dealing with other personalities (colleagues and co-workers).

4. You can find ways to improve your weaknesses

Tips for preparing for personality tests • Research the kind of personality test it is, how long it takes, the format of questions and the traits it measures.

• Thoroughly read the instructions and make sure you fully understand what you are required to do.

• Be as honest and consistent as you can when answering the questions. Most personality tests have built-in mechanisms to spot inconsistent responses.

• Read questions carefully, watching out for negative or tricky questions.

• Be assertive in your answering, avoiding too many neutral or borderline responses.

• Don’t spend too much time on one question, if not sure, go with your instinct.

• Attempt all questions and never skip any - if you’re not sure on any, take an educated guess.

• Take your time, especially if it isn’t timed!

Here we will look at a few personality tests that are commonly used in personal development planning and by employers as part of their recruitment processes.

17

MYERS-BRIGGS

myers-briggs assessment The Myers–Briggs Assessment can help you gain useful insights about yourself and your interactions with others. This can help you to enhance your personal development, communication and your approach to learning or working.

The importance of the assessment is in explaining the differences in people’s unique use of their perceptions and personal judgment and how they reach conclusions, thus explaining people’s differing interests, sources of motivation and skills and abilities.

In the Myers–Briggs Assessment there are sixteen personality types which are made up of four letters, with each letter representing a psychological preference. When reflecting on your preferences, your personality type will be expressed as a code with four letters. See diagrams above summarise the 16

Myers-Briggs personality types.

Drawing energy from different ‘worlds’ Do you prefer to focus on your inner or outer world – i.e. Extroversion (E) or Introversion (I)? An extrovert focuses on drawing energy from people and activities outside of them. An introvert feels more energised by their own world of thoughts and reflections.

S ASSESSMENT

Absorbing & interpreting information Do you focus on absorbing information or would you interpret information and add meaning to it – Sensing (S) or Intuition (N). A sensing individual focuses on real and tangible information. An intuitive individual notes the bigger picture as well as making connections between facts.

Making decisions When making decisions, do you focus on the logic and consistency or do you look to the people and particular circumstances first? I.e. Thinking (T) or Feeling (F). Thinking individuals use logical analysis to make decisions. Feeling individuals focus on other people involved and what is important at that particular moment.

Approaching the outside world When interacting with the outside world, would you rather get things done and decided or would you stay open to new information and ideas?

I.e. Judging (J) or Perceiving (P). ‘Judging’ people prefer a planned, orderly lifestyle whereas ‘Perceiving’ individuals are more inclined towards a more flexible and spontaneous approach to life.

19

Transitioning from Studying to Working The term “welcome to the real world” has never been truer than in this case. It can come as quite a shock after having left the comfort of school/collegew to go into the working world. Going from writing essays, partying, taking exams and attending lessons/classes to a 9-5 job can be very hard to adjust to.

But don’t worry, here are 5 tips and tricks to give you some guidance on how to transition from school/ college to work.

Punctuality equals professionalism!

Being professional is part and parcel of any new job that you will have over the years. Unlike school or university, punctuality is expected and something you will not be praised for. Being late so many times could end up with you being spoken to by HR or management and a decision will have to be made on what to do about it. If you know that you have a partiality for being late, then make a schedule: A time for going to bed, a time for getting up in the morning and a time for leaving the house. If you know that you are not a morning person and struggle to get up, then try going to bed a bit earlier. It’s recommended that you get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night.

Don’t second guess yourself!

You’ve finished your studies, started your new job and now the overwhelming sensation starts to set in. It won’t be like this for everybody, but some people are going to find it hard to 20

Study & Careers Magazine

transfer the knowledge and skills they have learnt from university and apply it to their job. The trick is don’t doubt yourself; you were hired for a reason. The manager believes that you have the skills to efficiently do your job better than the other people that were interviewed. So be confident and stick with it. Besides, no one ever stops learning in life: everyone makes progress.

College/School may not fully not prepare you for everything!

Education only tends to educate you with knowledge of the subjects you are learning or degrees you are studying. Unfortunately, it does not outright teach you about issues that you may find happen in your day to day work life.

Sometimes, you may have to negotiate a salary before you start a job. Having the right communication skills along

Being professional is part and parcel of any new job that you will have over the years.

with patience is key to negotiating.

You don’t want to ask for a starting salary that is completely ridiculous and would get you laughed out of the building.

Instead, find out what they are offering you and start with a higher but reasonable counteroffer.

From there, you will need to work with the negotiator until you reach a sum that you are both happy with.

However, it’s not just negotiation that you will be unprepared for. Critical thinking, money management, etiquette, protecting yourself and managing failure are all things that university don’t teach you.

Colleagues or friends?

Depending on the size of the company you work for, you’re going to have many colleagues. Some of whom you will get on better with than others and that is totally fine.

You’re allowed to be friends with your colleagues inside or outside of work but remember that they are still your colleagues in work.

Whilst the friendships you make with colleagues will make your day more enjoyable, it is vital to take note of the foundations and basis of which these friendships are formed. Not all colleagues are going to be friendly, some may even be a little competitive. But it is wise to remember that you will be in a place of work, so you must remain professional around others, even if they are your friends.

NETWORKING IS KEY Networking is key!

If you haven’t started networking already, start now. Networking is great for talking to industry professionals that have been in the game for many years. Start by going to networking conventions such as Glug. This way you will be able to meet people that have gone down the same career path that you intend to go down as well.

If you are not one for going to meet people in person, then LinkedIn is great for getting in touch with other professionals via social media. You can post your information about what work experience you have, where you have studied and anything else you think industry professionals would benefit from knowing about you.

Not only does LinkedIn allow you to message other professionals, but for professionals to message you as well.

Some of them may even be offering interviews or jobs!

For those of you that are reading this and will still be attending university next year, it will be a good idea to start networking now. It is never too early to engage with professionals and build up relationships with the people that could potentially be your next boss.

It’s going to feel strange at first but once you get into the swing of things, it will start to become easier and less overwhelming. There are many changes that you will have to make to your lifestyle to help you kick the university mindset and for some, this may take a while. But don’t worry, as time goes by the transition will start to feel smoother and you will adapt to the weight of the working world.

START NETWORKING

Include any outstanding extracurricular performance including athletic achievements or club leadership.

PREPARE A TOP NOTCH CV

Expand your network by connecting with recruiters at campus recruitment fairs and investment banking clubs.

BE PUNCTUAL

Being professional is part and parcel of any new job that you will have over the years.

21

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n fully supports the Governy requirement that all young ceive good careers provision andbook fully complements od Career Guidance Benchmarks.

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• • • •

READ DURING SUMMER? ondering what educational/ careers options your child can take for their next step?

Wondering how you can help your child with their UCAS, & University Applications, Apprenticeship and Job Applications?

Need to know which jobs pay more and are available in your area (Labour Market Information)?

What qualifications are needed for each role i.e Degree/Diploma/Certificate?

How does your child apply for Medical School/Law School/Accounting Firms/Investment Banking Firms etc..?

•

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25

5FIVE STAGES OF CLEARING

27

TIPS FOR

UCAS CLEARING 2020

With A Levels/IB exam assessments pretty much done, we are all now focussing on Thursday 13 August 2020, the current predicted Results Day. We hope everything will go according to plan for you. However, sometimes things don’t go to plan. If you end up not getting the results you were expecting and end up missing out on your preferred university place, there is still light at the end of the tunnel.

UCAS’s Clearing is any opportunity for you to reapply to universities that have vacancies that haven’t been filled yet. Clearing is particularly relevant if: • you don’t get the grades you need for the universities you applied to earlier in the year • you don’t want to accept any of the offers made to you • you apply to university after 30 June • you’ve had a sudden change of heart about your choices.

This year in particular, a lot of universities are likely to be taking applications through this route, so you should be able to find something that suits you, and hopefully have the opportunity to enjoy the university experience you have always cherished. This UCAS video explains how you can use Clearing to find a course at university or college if you don't have a place.

When can I apply through Clearing?

Clearing officially opens on UCAS on 6 July. But most people tend to wait to see what their exam results are before using the system. Places can fill up quickly, so you’ll want to get on the phone as soon as you get your results to see what University courses are open to you with your grades.

How does Clearing work?

Results day can be a bit stressful, particularly if you didn’t do as well as you’d hoped. The main thing is not to panic. If you’re still set on going to university, chances are you’ll be able to do that.

What if I've done better than expected?

Firstly, congratulations – well done! If you’ve met or exceeded your offers, then you may need to consider using Adjustment. This is an opportunity for you to reconsider where and what to study.

This is entirely optional, but you may wish to have a look around at other courses or universities especially if you feel that this will enhance your ultimate outcomes. Contact the relevant university directly to discuss your options.

Can I reapply to the same course through Clearing?

If you made an application to a university and this application was rejected during the main UCAS cycle, unfortunately most universities may not consider an application for the same course through Clearing. Some universities are happy to provide feedback as to why your application was rejected, in order that you can make changes and reapply in the next UCAS cycle. Some universities may even be able to discuss your current options further, so do try to contact their admissions team to discuss your situation.

10

Add clearing choices If you applied through UCAS earlier in the year, and you’re eligible for Clearing, you’ll see an ‘Add Clearing choice’ on the UCAS Track system. You’ll also be given a Clearing number, which you’ll need when contacting each University about their Clearing courses.

If you haven’t registered with UCAS, you can apply to the University through Clearing directly. There are a number of ways you can do this – call UCAS, apply online, or apply through social media.

Prepare Make a list of your qualifications and grades, and work out how many UCAS points you hold using a tariff calculator. When you contact the University, they may ask you about your Level 3 results (A-levels, BTECs etc), as well as your Maths and English GCSE results. Also, make a note of any questions you want to ask them, so you don’t forget anything.

You may have your heart set on a particular course, but it doesn’t harm to look at all the options. Most universities publish Clearing vacancies on their websites in July each year, so you can see which courses still have spaces on them. The majority of the universities will have on offer a wide range of subjects and there could well be something different there that’s still a perfect fit for you.

Apply If you see a course you’re interested in applying for at a particular university, call or email them. You can also apply to most universities through Twitter, Facebook or WhatsApp. You just need to send them a private message with the information such as: • Name, phone number, email address or your UCAS personal ID (if you have one) • Your grades and UCAS points • Your subjects • The name of the course or courses you’re interested in.

Once you have received an offer, if you applied through UCAS, you’ll need to add them as a Clearing choice on Track. If you apply to them directly, rather than through UCAS, they’ll email you to let you know what to do next.

11

How to UNIVERS Survive first days When you head off to Uni/College, it’s important you make yourself aware of what the city is like for crime. One-third of students are likely to fall victim to some form of crime so you should clue up on what precautions you should put in place to help prevent anything happening to you!

Safety First!

To ensure that you’re safe on and around campus, make sure you can check out this list of tips can make your University/College experience a lot safer.

• •

• • •

Familiarise Yourself

• • •

Make a list of contact numbers should you lose your phone

Familiarise yourself with the bus routes and the location of your accommodation

Invest in USB/Hard drive for backups of your Uni work

Always let a housemate or a friend know if you’re leaving the house

Make sure your phone is always charged and on-hand

Buy a bike chain if you are going to be cycling

Consider purchasing a personal alarm to carry around with you

Always be aware of how much you drink

PA G E 16

Safety First

SITY/COLLEGE Protect Your Valuables

Hide your valuable items!

Register your expensive items such as laptops, tablets and phones.

Making sure you have contents insurance before you move to Uni/College is really beneficial. It’s common for student houses to be the target of burglaries- especially during the winter and Easter breaks as thieves know that there will be nobody in the house.

Some student accommodation and housing will offer free contents insurance, but you should definitely double check in your contract before skimping out on it.

That extra twenty-odd pounds a year can be a real game changer in the case of a burglary.

Have a look around for the best price and don’t leave it too late to purchase insurance.

You can even see if you can be added onto your parent’s insurance plan to make things a little cheaper. Also!

• Always make sure you lock your door!

Including the door on your bedroom if you are leaving the house- even if it’s just for a moment.

• Register your expensive items such as laptops, tablets and phones.

• Hide things like laptops and TVs away from the windows, where people can look in.

• Avoid leaving notes and tell-tale signs that you have left the house - if anyone needs to know, send them a text.

• Make sure your windows are locked and shut, even if you’re not on the ground floor.

• Ask your landlord to install a CCTV or burglar alarm.

• Use timers when you are away for your lights to give the impression that there is still someone in the house.

PA G E 17

How to Survive first days...

It’s important to note that there is a spike in students being targeted during the first few weeks of the academic year when new starters are at their most vulnerable due to partying and not being familiar with the area.

When you’re heading on a night out, always make sure you know the safest route back.

Avoiding taking shortcuts and wandering off on your own as it may make you more susceptible to an attack.

Here are some other things to consider that will hopefully help reduce the risk of any trouble on a night out:

Keep an eye on your drink: Spiking drinks is on the increase and somebody could do it for any reason (none of which are justifiable). Never leave your drink at the bar and never ever accept a drink from a stranger.

If you have to nip to the loo, make sure you can leave your drink with somebody you 100% trust. If you begin to feel uneasy or strange, let a friend know and get them to guide you home and keep your eye out for your friends.

Avoid Conflict: As tempting as it may be to step in and break up a fight, it’s best to stay out of it. Alert a bouncer or the bar staff who can fetch someone else. It’s better to not get involved as you can’t foresee the consequences.

Be Careful Around People You’ve Just Met: University is an exciting time for meeting new people and making new friends, but it never hurts to be cautious. Stick with the group you arrived with and avoid giving out your address to someone you’ve just met.

Always let your friends know if you plan on going back to anybody else’s accommodation.

Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: Kind of an obvious one here but if you’re planning on going on a night out, make sure you keep a tally on the items you take out with you!

If you’re taking a little bag, try not to leave it on the floor of a toilet cubicle or forget to take it back from a friend if you ask them to hold on to it. Always double check that the things that you put in your pocket haven’t disappearedputting things in your front pockets can reduce the risk of pickpocketing.

Suicide Helplines: Samaritans www.samaritans.org 116 123 Hope Line UK www.papyrus-uk.org

List of Hotlines

0800 585858

Emergency Services 999

Drugs:

111- Non-Emergency

Know The Score www.knowthescore.info

Sexual Assault:

0800 587 587 9

Victims Support www.victimsupport.org.uk

Talk To Frank

0333 300 6389

www.talktofrank.com

RASASC

0300 123 6600

www.rasasc.org.uk 0808 802 9999 Rape Crisis www.rapecrisis.org.uk 0808 802 9999

LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION - UK OVERVIEW Female:

Male:

£26,480

£31,525

per annum

per annum

Average Salary:

£29,010

POPULATION (16-64) Females, 20,872,900

0.86

Average:

76%

Males, 20,772,900

HIGH GROWTH SECTORS

NUMBER OF EMPLOYERS / BUSINESSES

Key Stage 4 Destinations (Post 16 / Post GCSE) Intermediate apprenticeships (level 2) 3%

Sustained employmentOther destination 3% 3%

Advanced and Higher apprenticeships (level 3 and above) 1% Sixth form college 11% Other education destinations 2%

Destination not sustained 3%

Further education college or other FE provider 38%

School sixth form - state funded 36%

Key Stage 5 Destinations (Post 18 / A Level / College) Destination not sustained 8%

Intermediate apprenticeships (level 2) 3%

Other 4%

Sustained employment destination 20%

Higher education (level 4 and above) 54%

Advanced apprenticeships (level 3) 3% Higher and degree apprenticeships (level 4 and above) 1% Other education destinations Further education (level 3 and below) 3% 4%

LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION - UK OVERVIEW QUALIFICATION LEVELS Other QualificationsNo Qualifications 8% (Professional/Foreign Qualifications) 7%

NVQ 1 (GCSE (1-3 / D-G); Introductory Awards) 10%

NVQ 4 & Above (HNC/HND/Degrees) 39%

NVQ 2 (GCSE / Intermediate Diploma/Certificates) 16%

NVQ 3 (A Level / ONC/OND / BTEC Diplomas) 17%

Trade Apprenticeships 3%

PREDICTED JOB GROWTH

1,950,000 Unemployment Rate:

1,500,000

3.8%

1,200,000 1,000,000 750,000

2020

JOBS BY SECTOR

2021

2022

2023

2024

JOBS BY INDUSTRY Arts, Entertainment & Recreation 3%

Energy, Water Supply; Sewerage & Waste 1% Manufacturing 8%

Health And Social Work 13%

Construction & Real Estate 8%

Education 8%

Retail 14%

Public Administration And Defence…

Administrative And Support Service 12% Professional Scientific And Technical 9%

Financial And Insurance Activities 3%

Accommodation And Food Service 7%

Information And Communication 4%

Transportation And Storage 5%

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