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Land-Based Careers Special Diplomas Uncovered ASOS His & Hers Fashion Sexual Health Advice

CONTENTS

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WHAT’S NEW

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STUDY ADVICE

STUDY ADVICEI WANT TO WORK

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TRAVEL CONTENTS CONTENTS

SEXUAL HEALTH WHAT’S NEW WHAT’S NEW

SPORT WORLD OF WORK WORLD OF WORK

FAS H ION PG34 ENTERTAINMENT

8 What’s New - Latest Advic e News, Tips and Advice CONTENTS

STUDY ADVICE

LIFEBYTE WORLD OF WORK WHAT’S NEW

WHAT’S NEW CONTENTS

14 What is a Diploma?

I WANT A...

CAREER AT SEA STUDY ADVICE

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Publications for everyone

ENTERTAINMENT CONTENTS

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LIFEBYTE I WANT A...

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CAREERS

To see the full range of publications and websites visit www.sugarmedia.co.uk

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CAREER AT SEA WHAT’S NEW

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SPORT SEXUAL HEALTH LIFEBYTE LIFEBYTE MONEY WHAT’S NEW

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42 Planet

Earth Calling What can you do to save the planet.

44 Rage!!

- Dealing COMPETITIONS SPORT Real FASHION I WANT TO WORK FASHION COMPETITIONS With Anger IN...TOURISM

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46 P laying it Safe - Sexual Health

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50 H oliday Romances - Heaven or Hell?

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38 Paint the Town Pink Everything you need to LIFEBYTE know I WANT TO WORK I WANT TO WORK 48 Reviews IN...TOURISM TRAVEL ENTERTAINMENT

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Advic COMPETITIONS e I WANTATA...SEA CAREER CAREER AT SEA

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20 A Caring Career in Health 22 Real LifeHEALTH In The NHS...

TRAVEL SEXUAL TRAVEL ENTERTAINMENT 26 Careers at Sea - Take I WANT A...

WORLD OF WORK STUDY ADVICEthe Plunge CAREER AT SEA CONTENTS 28 Careers at Sea - RAF Advic e 30 Do You Care - Want to be a Social Worker?

32 Making It In Maths & FASHION COMPETITIONS LIFEBYTE I WANT TO WORK FASHION Science MONEY IN...TOURISM TRAVEL ENTERTAINMENT 34 Landing The Right Job - We breakSTUDY downADVICE the Land based industry

AT SEA

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40 Youth Nation - His & Hers Fashion from ASOS.com

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PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC)

Welcome all the talented people...

We’re the one firm for all talented people. People who, whatever their background, interests and aspirations, have qualities that make them shine in one way or another.

Whether you’re about to leave school or college, or you’re ready to make a career change, it’s your ability that matters. We’ve become one of the world’s largest professional services firms, because we’re good at what we do. But what is that exactly? Basically we help organisations – businesses, charities and even governments – check their financial performance and improve the way they work. The areas of our business are tremendously varied.

We offer a number of programmes, each of which will give you the chance to learn more about the world of business and accountancy and develop strong technical and personal skills.

Whether you’re thinking of applying for our HEADstart programme or applying for a place on the Flying Start Degree, our INS1GHT Days

are a great way to find out more about the options available to you. In fact, many of the people who join these programmes have first taken part in one of our INS1GHT Days. You’ll spend a day in one of our offices across the UK, discovering what we do, how, why and where we do it, and who we do it for. We’ll explain the various directions a career with PwC can take you – and how far you could go – and you’ll have every opportunity to ask our people questions face to face and get a better grasp of our business.

If you have decided against University then join us after your A-Levels/Scottish Highers or equivalent and start earning while you work towards a professional accounting or tax qualification. Likewise, if you’re looking for a change in career direction, one of our HEADstart programmes could be right for you. Our introductory training will give you a good grounding in book-keeping, auditing or tax specific skills, while improving your general business awareness. And the learning doesn’t stop there. Formal study, on-the-job experience

and coaching from colleagues mean you’ll continually pick up new skills and develop your business knowledge.

Our Flying Start degree is an innovative BA (Honours) Business Accounting and Finance degree at Newcastle University Business School which helps you qualify as a Chartered Accountant more quickly. While many other degrees tackle Business, Accounting and Finance, none of them prepares you for your chosen profession as well as Flying Start. The degree’s unique structure enables you to put classroom theory into commercial practice on placement, then relate your practical experience back to your studies. It’s also designed to equip you with a range of business skills that will help you develop your future career. To find out more about the programme and how to apply, please visit www.ncl.ac.uk/flyingstart/

Detailed information about our recruitment process, how to apply, and our online application forms can all be found at pwc.com/uk/careers/

D SCOVER Career Insights and Opportunities 2009

HEADstart Programmes Flying Start Degree INS1GHT Days

Requirements: 280 - 340 UCAS tariff or equivalent depending on entry route

Want to try something new? Because if you’re at a crossroads, taking on a fresh challenge can help you think more clearly about the rest of your life. And we’ve got just the thing. It doesn’t matter what you’ve studied, whether you’re about to leave school or college, or if you want to make a career change, you’ll work on real projects for real clients and enjoy real prospects. From our HEADstart programmes and Flying Start degree to our INS1GHT Days, we have something for everyone.

And whatever’s right for you, you’ll get a real insight into how a professional services firm operates and develop invaluable business skills. Discover what you’re made of. We’re the one firm for all inquisitive individuals.

pwc.com/uk/careers/ Text: PwC to 85792 (Texts charged at your standard network rate.)

We value diversity in our people.

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK © 2008 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. All rights reserved. “PricewaterhouseCoopers” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP or, as the context requires, the PricewaterhouseCoopers global network or other member firms of the network, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity.

WELCOME BACK TO LEAVING SCHOOL! Not sure what to study? In this issue you can find out about the new Diplomas which are for 14-19 year olds and are designed to give you the opportunity to reach your goals by combining study with real work experience. There are up to 10 new Diploma subjects to choose from in different areas of the country. By 2011, there will be 17 subjects in total.

Whatever area you are interested in studying or working in, there is bound to be a subject for you.

We have also have two great special career Guides with loads of opportunities – Careers at Sea and Careers on Land. Have a look, you’ll be amazed and the different jobs in these two very different sectors.

Spotlight on success and big round of applause for some of London’s highest achievers – Leaving School reports from the London Schools and the Black Child Awards, organised by Diane Abbott MP. In our lifestyle section we cover a whole range of vital topics including surviving a holiday romance, saving the plant – how to get green, and, be sure to read up on how to stay safe in sex and find out everything you need to know about sex clinics.

Moving on to our cover celeb Pink, we find out about her wild childhood and how she reformed bad habits taking her on a road to nowhere, choosing the route to fame and success instead.

EDITOR Isabel Appio

EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR Jonathan Williams

PUBLISHERS Isabel Appio, Ian Thomas & Adam Hayes

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Darren Waite

SALES EXECUTIVE Gurpreet Kundi

DESIGN Art Editor: Jon-Paul Daly Senior Designer: John Blanco

ACKNOWLEDGMENT & THANKS Cover image: Sony BMG. Thanks to BBC & Kikizo.com.

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BY SUGAR MEDIA LTD© Sugar Media Ltd, Studio 4, Hiltongrove, 14 Southgate Road, London, N1 3LY Tel: 0207 407 7747 Fax: 0207 407 6800 Email: isabel@sugarmedia.co.uk

DISCLAIMER

As always, keep checking our website www.leavingschool.co.uk for latest news and send us your comments to isabel@sugarmedia.co.uk We are here to help.

The Leaving School team.

No material in this publication may be used without permission from the publisher. The views expressed in Leaving School are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher.

ARE YOU EXPERIENCED?

Below: The Star Reads reads series of posters including Rapper Kano, Apprentice winner Tim Campbell, Actor Noel Clarke and Producer K2.

A work placement is your opportunity to spend a period of time outside the classroom, learning about a particular job or area of work. During your CONTENTS placement, you’ll be able to find out what skills employers look for when they’re hiring someone to fill a job vacancy.

You will also get the chance to develop your selfconfidence and communication skills. This will help you to work better with other people in further or higher education, as well as in your future career. With schools, work placements are only available in Years 10 or 11. You won’t be able to do a work placement with your school until you reach this age.

STUDY A work experience placement could involve working in a business or organisation full-time for oneADVICE to three weeks, or spending one day per week in the workplace over a number of months. A placement may form part of your course if you’re doing a GCSE in a practical subject like engineering or art and design. And the new Diploma qualification available in selected schools and colleges from September 2008 - involves at least ten days of work experience.

BUDDING WRITERS HAVE THEIR SAY

HOOKED ON BOOKS Join Kano, T2 and Addictive are all crazy about books! The Star Reads campaign aims to inspire you to read more. Reading can help you to improve your skills and broaden your mind. Star Reads offers books that will inspire anyone who thinks they don’t like reading to think again, as well as giving some great new recommendations for avid readers. Reading is the key to success - at work and at play - and it can help you to understand other people and yourself. Tim “The Apprentice” Campbell’s message to is: “Reading has the ability to transport you into any world; the knowledge of self is the path to development and preparation for success. So much, can be found within the pages of a book.”

Check out your school, library or local youth centre to find out about how you can join the stars in becoming hooked on books.

Budding travel writers have the chance to see their work in print when the second edition of the Rough Guide to Accessible Britain launches early next year.

The Guide, which is supported by Motability Operations, the company that provides affordable motoring to disabled people, will feature ideas and reviews for accessible days out.

Rough Guides and Motability Operations are looking for lively reviews to inspire readers, and to uncover lesser-know attractions throughout the UK. Reviews should be up to 250 words long and be both engaging and entertaining, as well as providing the essential information that a disabled visitor would need to be aware of.

Writers simply submit their reviews online at www.accessibleguide.co.uk by 7th November 2008.

The top five reviews will appear in print in the 2009 edition of the Rough Guide to Accessible Britain and the chosen writers will win a Rough Guide of their choice, as well as an advance copy of the new Guide featuring their |winning review.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

I WANT A...

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It’s fact! Young people would be lost without their Advic e mobile phones.

According to a new study, (by the Nestlé LIFEBYTE Social Research FASHION Programme) many young people (aged 1121)now prefer to chat, flirt, make dates – and even end relationships – by text rather than mobile talk, email or landline.

• 95% of young people claiming access to a mobile

phone, texting now plays a key part in their social lives.

• 54% use their mobile at least five times a day.

• Texting is preferred for chatting people up, (55%)…

• Making a first date (40%)…..

• And even ending a relationship – with more boys (34%) than girls (23%) choosing this way of saying goodbye.

• Three quarters of young people surveyed said they ‘could not bear to be without their mobile phone’ • Nearly a quarter (24%) have used the mobile to ask for emergency help or make 999 calls.

www.starreads.org

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I LUV TXTIN

ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S NEW

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THINK BEFORE YOU DRINK!

WHY TAKE A GAP YEAR? Not surprisingly, opinions vary on the value of taking a gap year.

Take advice, listen to the arguments, but remember each individual’s circumstances are different. Only you can make the decision.

CONTENTS

WHAT’S NEW

ADVANTAGES IN FAVOUR OF A GAP YEAR BEFORE HE INCLUDE:

Although the relaxing and disinhibiting effects may be responsible for part of the “buzz” that alcohol brings they can also lead to people saying or doing things that they may regret later, because the alcohol has affected their ability to reason or think things through logically they may not consider the consequences of their actions and the implications they might have for their future.

This might include: • S pending more money than you meant to buying

drinks when you cannot really afford it and having to go without something else you wanted or needed to buy such as food or clothing.

• D oing something really embarrassing like getting off with someone you would not have usually gone for and having to deal with the consequences at school or work the next day.

• T aking drugs which may, react badly with the alcohol, have a range of their own unpleasant side affects, lead to a more serious drug problem or result in serious damage to your health.

• C ommitting a crime leading to a criminal record that may affect chances of employment in the future or might lead to fines, community punishment or detainment • U nprotected sex that might lead to an unplanned pregnancy or result in a sexually transmitted infection which might affect future sexual relationships.

• G oing home with a stranger or leaving on your own which may make you vulnerable and put your safety and, even your life, at risk.

• D rink driving that may lead to a driving ban, a fine, imprisonment or that may result in an accident or even death.

• T o have a break, after 14 years of school.

• I t improves self-confidence and all round personal skills.

• T o boost your UCAS application.

• S ome people apply to university knowing grades.

• Y ou will be more focussed and committed at university.

• Y ou may change your course/modules to your advantage.

• T o raise money for HE. • T he opinion is that you are less likely to ‘drop out’ at university.

• Employers look favourably on applications from those who took a gap year (but not

just travelling).

• F inding out whether a particular career is really for you.

• Y ou might not get another chance.

DISADVANTAGES INCLUDE:

• Y our friends will have moved on and you will be a year behind them.

• Y ou might not go to university.

• Y our study skills will have diminished.

• Y ou could be at risk of being injured - but so could you at home!

• I t could be a let down.

www.gapadvice.org

LONDON’S TOP BLACK STUDENTS AWARDED BY CELEBRITIES AT HOUSE OF COMMONS The third London Schools and the Black Child Awards awards ceremony, held at the House of Commons was a resounding success as comedian Lenny Henry had the audience in stitches. But he also took the time to congratulate the young people on their achievements, and said he looked forward to seeing them running the country in 10 year’s time.

Young people awarded this year included a Hackney schoolgirl who helped build a dental centre in Kenya and was awarded a full scholarship to Gordonstoun School; an A Level student at school in Greenwich who arrived illiterate from Somalia when he was nine years old but whose desire to be a doctor inspired him to achieve top grades and a place at Oxford University; and a young woman at sixth form in Forest Gate who achieved top grades and fought to continue a brilliant sports career

www.apas.org.uk

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STUDY ADVICE

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Left: Diane, Foad Mohamed, Lenny Henry and David Charles.

Bottom left: Diane, Lenny, Cynthia Akpobi, Baroness I WANT A...

Scotland. Bottom CAREERright: AT SEA Diane, Sydeny Viera, Doreen Lawrence and Sir Trevor McDonald.

despite undergoing spinal surgery.

Runners-up received an ipod and a certificate whilst winners took home laptop computers. All awardees will have the opportunity to receive mentoring from UBS and attend open days at Turner TRAVEL BroadcastingENTERTAINMENT (CNN).

Lenny Henry said: “The ceremony was a great opportunity to show how well black children in London are doing. These youngsters haven’t just reached aAnational standard, they have far exceeded it. It dvi ce is important that London and the rest of the country recognise that. I take my hat, shoes, socks and pants off to anyone who can do that.

Congratulations and big up yourself! You rock!”

Organiser of the awards, Diane Abbott MP said: “This is the third year we have runLIFEBYTE the LSBC awards and the standard wasFASHION higher than ever. Choosing the final winners was really difficult and all of our awardees were incredible achievers. It was wonderful to have so many big names recognising the students’ achievements.”

Sir Trevor McDonald added: “The students being celebrated at the London Schools and the Black Child Awards are an inspiration to all of us. They have shown that through motivation, concentration and a passion for their studies there are no limits to educational success.”

For winners list see www.leavingschool.co.uk

CONTENTS

WHAT’S NEW

WORLD OF WORK

£ STUDY ADVICE

I WANT A...

CAREER AT SEA

MONEY

I WANT TO WORK IN...TOURISM

SCHOO L ’ S OUT… NOW W HAT

NEWS

WHAT IS A DIPLOMA? ENTERTAINMENT

TRAVEL

CareerAdvchoices can be difficult ice but whatever path or industry you intend to go for, Diplomas canLIFEBYTE be a useful qualification FASHION to gain enroute to any future.

The facts

• It’s a new qualification for 14-19 year olds • You can pick from up to 10 Diploma subjects in September 2009 • They teach you about an area of work you’re interested in • It’s different to GCSEs and A levels • You get a mix of class work and hands on experience • And choose subject options that you want to do At the end, you’ll have a better idea of what you want to do next.

It could be more study at school or college, a job, university, college or an Apprenticeship. And a list of all the individual qualifications that make up your Diploma. These have been designed to prepare you for work or further study – and we’ve worked with employers and universities to make sure of this.

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SEXUAL HEALTH

SPORT

ROB - C AMP A ME MAD A RICA COUNS BOUT FOOTB ELLOR NAME: R ALL! OB A

COMPETITIONS

Why would you do one

A Diploma is different to what you’re used to. You get more choice about what you learn. And you can keep your options open for the future by exploring subject areas without committing to a career in them.

• I t’s usually a 2 year course, whatever level you study at

?

projects and work experience • And learn life skills that are important for work, study and the future • You can use what you learn to tackle real life situations • Like you’d find at work, study or in research

What levels are there?

“YOU CAN KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN FOR THE FUTURE BY EXPLORING SUBJECT AREAS WITHOUT COMMITTING TO A CAREER IN THEM.”

You can study a Diploma at three levels: Foundation, Higher and Advanced.

• The Foundation Diploma is the same as 5 GCSEs at grades D to G • The Higher Diploma is the same as 7 GCSEs at grades A* to C • The Advanced Diploma is the same as 3.5 A levels

•Y ou’ll learn in the classroom •A nd you might also spend time at another school or college in your area •Y ou’ll do practical stuff like

A Progression Diploma is also available, which is the same as 2.5 A levels. And from 2011 there will be an Extended Diploma on offer too.

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YOUR SUMMER, YOUR TIME,

GE: 19 LIKES: C HILLING FOOTY A WITH MY MATE S ND ANY THING B , KANYE Y WHY I W CAMP AM AS FINI ERICA: H S AD NO I HING SCHOOL A DEA WH THE SUM AT TO D ND O FOR MER BE FO TO COLL EGE. MY RE GOING MATE TO ME ABO UT CAM P AMER LD JUST AP ICA SO I PL EASY – Y IED – IT WAS R EALLY OU DO E VERYTH ONLINE ING AND TH EY WER REALLY E HE DID IT – LPFUL. I’M SO G LAD I IT WAS A SUMME R – I MA WICKED DE LOAD FRIEND SO SA SIGNED ND HAVE ALRE F A UP FOR NEXT YE DY AR!

24 hour support Great for your CV

VISIT K MERICA.CO.U WWW.CAMPA ODAY! BROCHURE T A T S E U Q E R AND

London’s Leading College

City and Islington Want to study somewhere with outstanding teaching and state-of-theart learning facilities?

Business, Administration and Finance

For the Diploma in Business, Administration and Finance your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 Business enterprise: Develop ideas, carry out research and promote products or services 2 Business administration: Learn about business administration and how important it is to organisations 3 Finance: Teaches the knowledge and skills you need to manage personal and business finances If you’re doing a Higher or Advanced Diploma, you will cover more areas including communications, accounting, marketing and sales, customer service, preparing for work and many more.

Construction and the Built Environment

For the Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 Designing the built environment: Learning how the built environment is designed and constructed, how it impacts on people and communities, and how history, politics and economics affect it 2 Creating the built environment: Developing a range of skills and knowledge needed in different industries – for example, using tools and understanding modern construction methods and materials 3 Valuing and using the built environment: Analysing the need for good management and continuous maintenance, and understanding the importance of good design, workmanship and teamwork

detail and in different practical ways. Like focusing on architectural elements, community involvement and the variety of things that shape and influence what we build.

Engineering

For the Diploma in engineering your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 The engineered world: Looks at the importance of engineering in the modern world and the impact engineering has on the way we live our lives 2 Discovering engineering technology: Introduces basic engineering principles such as design, materials, electronics systems, maintenance and manufacturing 3 Engineering the future: Looks at what makes innovations succeed, how new materials contribute to design and how to develop and launch new ideas

Creative and Media

For the Diploma in Creative and Media your course will look at four main areas of the creative of this process: 1 Creativity in context: The things that can influence the creative process, such as society, culture, the environment or the work of other people 2 Thinking and working creatively: Ways of exploring, experimenting with and developing ideas, skills and techniques 3 Principles, processes and practice: The skills, techniques and processes to turn your ideas into reality 4 Creative businesses and enterprise: An understanding of real situations and the skills that you need to succeed in the industry

If you’re doing a Higher or Advanced Diploma, you’ll be looking at the same themes but exploring them in more

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

Environmental and Land-based Studies

For the Diploma in environmental and land-based studies your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 Productive and working environments: This looks at the limited resources of our natural environment, our impact on it, how it influences us and how these resources are used 2 Plants and animals: This explores how we use plants for commercial, recreational and conservation purposes and animals for production (food), recreation, work or companionship 3 Developing the sustainable environment: This theme will explore the impact of we have on our environment and how important it is to use environmentally friendly ‘green’ practices If you’re doing a Higher or Advanced Diploma, you’ll be looking at the same themes but exploring them in more detail and in different practical ways. Like threats to natural environments, the kinds of businesses that operate in this sector, animal and plant kingdoms and how human lifestyles affect the environment.

Hair and Beauty Studies

For the Diploma in hair and beauty studies your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 Employability: The global environment in which hair and beauty businesses operate, plus personal presentation, hygiene and wellbeing. Learn the principles of basic hair, beauty and nail treatments and routines – along with historic and cultural differences 2 Customer interaction: Learn communication skills from client consultation to managing expectations, as well as promotion and selling by recommendation.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

Find this and more at

CPD6205

City and Islington College l l l l

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Over 800 courses Partnerships with leading universities New Foundation Degree courses Focus on skills to make you more employable Fantastic support whilst you learn

Take a virtual tour today at www.candi.ac.uk or call Course Information on 020 7700 9200

Open Days Take a look around our superb Centres at an Open Day - 15 and 22 November 2008 Book online at: www.candi.ac.uk/opendays www.candi.ac.uk

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Introduces basic business systems and processes in a salon reception 3 Creativity and innovation: Investigate how personality, culture, race, gender, fashion and religious influences can be expressed through hairstyles, skin care and make-up techniques. Learn the importance of innovation in hair and beauty product design If you’re doing a Higher or Advanced Diploma, you’ll be looking at the same themes and professions but exploring them in more detail and in different practical ways. You’ll look at their size and impact, manufacturing links, processes and supply chain, marketing techniques and promotional activities, and how the media influences the sector.

Hospitality

For the Diploma in hospitality your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 The hospitality industry: Introducing the UK hospitality industry and customer service 2 People in the hospitality industry: Developing skills to work in the hospitality industry 3 Hospitality operations: Preparing and serving food and beverages If you’re doing a Higher or Advanced Diploma, you’ll also be looking at Business and Finance in Hospitality as well as other areas like human resources, front of house, facilities and events management and much more. You might explore loyalty incentive schemes and business plans, customer service and its impact on a business.

Information Technology

For the Diploma in IT your course will look at 3 main areas: 1 Business: How organisations work and the role technology can play 2 People: How to work well with other people 3 Technology: How to create technology solutions Plus a cross theme of multimedia, looking at how to design and develop a multimedia product for a particular audience.

If you’re doing a Higher or Advanced Diploma, you’ll look at the same themes but in more detail. Like planning and project management, the impact technology has on society, organisations and individuals with a global focus, plus how internet and mobile communications have transformed the business world.

Manufacturing and Product Design For the Diploma in manufacturing and product design your course will look at 3 main areas:

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

1 Product design and science: Considers the process of manufacturing a product, from the purchasing of raw materials to the sale of the finished product 2 Business and enterprise: Provides an introduction to manufacturing as a business 3 Production systems: Gives an insight into the skills, techniques and processes to turn your ideas into reality.

You’ll have the opportunity to cover five sub-sectors: food and drink; textiles and apparel; processing; chemicals, polymers and pharmaceuticals; and engineering materials.

Society Health & Development

For the Diploma in society, health and development your course will look at 6 main areas: 1 The sectors in context: Focuses on the political, social and economic factors that affect the four sectors today 2 Principles and values in practice: The values and principles that underpin and inform the practice of everyone across the sectors. It puts the person using the service at the centre of provision 3 Partnership working: New work practices mean that services work much more closely together to ensure the quality, greater flexibility and more efficient use of resources for service provision and support . For example, in family centres, there will be people from social services, health and the children’s services all working to ensure quality and integrated services for children and families 4 Communication and information sharing: Good communication is crucial to people working across the sectors. What are the barriers to good communication, how can they be overcome and are there tensions between good communication and sharing information with other professionals and respecting the privacy of individuals?

5 Personal and professional development in the work environment: Being able to reflect on own practice is a critical aspect of professional development - what did you do well, what can be improved, how can you improve your practice?

6 Safeguarding and protecting individuals and society: People are often working with the most vulnerable people in society. It is important to understand what needs to be done to ensure that people are kept safe. LS

Where can I get more Information?

To find out more about the Diploma, you can talk to your teachers, Careers Adviser or Connexions Personal Adviser. www.direct.gov.uk/diplomas/

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CHOICE OF CAREERS IN HEALTHCARE

WORLD OF WORK

A CARING £ CAREER IN HEALTH MONEY

I WANT TO WORK IN...TOURISM

NEWS

“A TOTAL OF AROUND 2,879,000 PEOPLE WORK IN HEALTHCARE, WITH JOBS AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE UK. THE NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE (NHS) IS THE LARGEST SINGLE EMPLOYER AND HAS OVER 300 DIFFERENT CAREER AREAS.”

Workers in healthcare are concerned with the health and well-being of people. As well as caring for those who SEXUAL HEALTH SPORT are ill, there are opportunities to investigate new and better treatments, and to educate people about healthier lifestyles.

T

here is a wide range COMPETITIONS

of occupations within the healthcare sector, including jobs for: • doctors • dentists and dental nurses, hygienists, technicians and therapists • nurses, midwives and health visitors • allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists, dietitians and radiographers • healthcare scientists working in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of illness • health administrators who work with patient information and records • managers, who make sure that services are delivered efficiently and within budget

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• other support workers, such as porters and technicians • complementary therapists, such as chiropractors, osteopaths and reflexologists.

Hours of work vary and some jobs involve evening, weekend or shift work. Part-time work is possible in many jobs. There are many different working environments, including hospitals and clinics, day care centres and residential homes, GP surgeries, laboratories, pharmacies, opticians and dental practices.

Some work may involve visiting patients in their homes.

A total of around 2,879,000 people work in healthcare, with jobs available throughout the UK. The National Health Service (NHS) is the largest single employer and

has over 300 different career areas.

Other healthcare employers include private, charitable and voluntary organisations, local authorities, the Armed Forces and the prison service. There is a shortage of workers in some parts of the NHS. Most who work in the private sector have first undertaken training in the public sector.

Healthcare workers need strong communication skills. They must be able to work on their own initiative while also working well in a team. A genuine concern for the well-being of patients is important. Scientific ability is essential for a number of jobs.

There are opportunities at all entry levels. Some jobs do not require formal qualifications. A number of others need GCSEs/S

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

grades (A-C/1-3), while some demand a degree or postgraduate qualification and a lot of supervised practical experience before an individual is considered to be fully qualified.

Some jobs involve a combination of on-the-job training and in-house courses. For others, full-time or part-time attendance at university or college is required in order to take up the position.

Organisations such as the NHS and Armed Forces have clearly defined career structures and employees are encouraged to take additional training and work towards promotion. Self-employment is possible in the private sector. Most complementary therapists, for example, are self-employed. LS

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Acupuncturist Adult Nurse Alexander Technique Teacher Ambulance Person Anaesthetist Anatomical Pathology Technologist Aromatherapist Art Therapist Audiologist Cardiac Physiologist Cervical Cytology Screener Children’s Nurse Chiropodist/Podiatrist Chiropractor Clinical Physiologist Consultant Critical Care Technologist Dental Hygienist Dental Nurse Dental Technician Dental Therapist Dentist Dietician Dispensing Optician District Nurse Doctor Dramatherapist Gastroenterology Physiologist General Practitioner GP Practice Manager Health Promotion/Education Specialist Health Records Clerk Health Service Manager Health Visitor Healthcare Assistant Herbalist Homeopath Hospital Play Specialist Hospital Porter Hypnotherapist Learning Disability Nurse

Massage Therapist/ Practitioner Medical Laboratory Assistant Medical Physicist Mental Health Nurse Midwife Music Therapist Naturopath Neurophysiologist Nurse Nutritional Therapist Occupational Health Nurse Occupational Therapist Occupational Therapy Support Worker Operating Department Practitioner Optometrist Orthodontist Orthopaedic Technician Orthoptist Osteopath Paramedic Pathologist Perfusionist Pharmacist Pharmacologist Pharmacy Technician Phlebotomist Physiotherapist Play Therapist Prosthetist/Orthotist Psychiatrist Radiographer Radiologist Reflexologist Respiratory Physiologist School Nurse Speech and Language Therapist Sports Physiotherapist Sports Therapist Sterile Services Technician Surgeon

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WORLD OF WORK

£ MONEY

I WANT TO WORK IN...TOURISM

NEWS

REAL LIFE IN THE NHS...

SEXUAL HEALTH

SPORT

Find out about what it’s really like working in healthcare Name: Michael Wan Role: MBBS trainee doctor, St George’s Medical School, London.

COMPETITIONS

Leaving School: What do you do?

Michael Wan: Training to be a doctor usually takes between five and six years, but I am in first year of a faster four year ‘accelerated’ course designed for people who already have a degree. There are about seventy students in our year; a great mix of interesting people from all sorts of backgrounds with ages ranging

“THE COURSE PROCEEDS IN MODULES: WE STARTED LAST SEPTEMBER WITH THE IMMUNE SYSTEM, AND HAVE MOVED THROUGH REPRODUCTION AND BABIES, HEART AND LUNGS, STOMACH AND LIVER, AND THIS MONTH WE ARE LOOKING AT MUSCLES AND BONES.”

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from early twenties to late thirties. We are taught with quite a new tutorial-based system that was pioneered in Australia called PBL (‘Problem Based Learning’).

Instead of the more traditional, topic based, structured, teaching - with, say, 300 people in a lecture hall - we are divided into tutorial groups of about 7 people, and the emphasis is on quite a lot of self study. The course proceeds in modules: we started last September with the immune system, and have moved through reproduction and babies, heart and lungs, stomach and liver, and this month we are looking at muscles and bones.

LS: What is your typical day?

MW: Each week we look at a different medical topic through the example of one particular problem.

On the Monday we have a tutorial to introduce the case (this week: a dislocated shoulder), we discuss the issues and then we are sent away to research all the medical background. Through the week we have lectures, demonstrations, maybe a visit to a GP who has a patient with an associated problem, all illustrating or enlarging upon the week’s topic.

At the end of the week we have a second tutorial to clarify and consolidate our findings. All this is mixed in with all the other basic lectures and seminars we need: from anatomy, discussions on ethics, or patient communication, to learning clinical skills like taking blood or giving an injection.

It’s an intense course, requiring a lot of stamina and determination. Self discipline is probably the most important thing - a lot of the time you are working on your own - but I really enjoy what I’m doing and I think it’s great. I know I definitely made the right decision in choosing medicine. LS

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Hands on experience.

Foundation degree/ BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care • Are you considering a degree in health and social care?

• Would you like to improve your opportunities in this line of work?

• Do you know how many roles are now available to you and how many different routes to qualification are opening up?

Our flexible programme has been developed with local employers to grow and develop the all-important health and social care workforce for Hampshire mand the Isle of Wight.

Our two or three year Foundation degree programme will equip you for new ‘Associate Practitioner’ roles in Health and Social Care, and enable you to ‘top-up’ to a BSc (Hons) in Health and Social Care which can also be accessed through a variety of other routes over a period of one to two years. It will also provide an excellent entry qualification for many professional degree programmes including podiatry, nursing, occupational therapy, audiology and social work.

If you do not have academic qualifications but have relevant work experience, you are warmly encouraged to apply.

Specialist pathway opportunities include: Working with Children and families, Rehabilitation, Mental Health/Learning Disability and Generic/Care Management.

Tel: +44 (0)23 8059 8833 Email: foundhsc@soton.ac.uk www.soton.ac.uk/healthsciences For UK/EU students–‘If you work in health or social care, you may be eligible for full tuition fee reimbursement, so apply early.’

NHS SCOTLAND

NHS Scotland seeks ‘X Factor’ graduates For most of us, finding a suitable career is an evolving process. We know we want to be successful and feel fulfilled and happy at work, but specifically at what can remain unanswered for some while.

If you feel like this right now, the best advice is to keep your options open. This is particularly important if you are about to enter higher education. Three or four years at university may take you in a direction never previously considered, or make you review previous ideas for the ‘what next’.

Keep a look-out for postgraduate training jobs from organisations that offer great career prospects and do not demand a degree in a specific subject. A typical example is the graduate training scheme run

by NHS Scotland. Launched in 2005, it selects applicants with the ability to go right to the top of health service management.

When people think about a job in public healthcare, most only consider the clinical roles filled by doctors, nurses and other medical specialists. Yet behind them is a management team responsible for handling finance, directing staff and taking daily decisions that influence how

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the service works. At NHS Scotland there are 150,000 employees and a yearly budget of £8 billion, making it one of the biggest organisations in the country.

“One trainee described our scheme as a golden ticket, and I wouldn’t disagree,” says Jill Sandford, programme manager for the graduate scheme. “We offer variety, and exciting opportunities for career advancement. At the same time the NHS is a secure organisation that resists well the economic ups and downs of the wider economy. But that doesn’t mean an easy ride. We expect hard work from day one, and our trainees learn on the job while knuckling down to an MSc in health and public leadership.”

Some graduates apply straight from university, while others have a few years’ work experience under their belt before deciding they need a more fulfilling career. Alex Royle, a geography graduate, successfully applied to the NHS Scotland management training scheme after three years working for a utilities company.

“In my previous job I could see where I was going to be in a few years, and the realisation didn’t fill me with joy,” says Alex.

“I wanted something where I

could be working with people, and making a difference to their lives.”

That need for intrinsic satisfaction is the ‘X factor’ that Jill and her team look for in graduates. She comments: “Whatever background, experience, or degree our applicants have, the successful ones share a heartfelt passion for public healthcare, matched by minds that will make decisions with intelligence and integrity, often under the intense scrutiny of the public, media and politicians.”

She adds: “If you don’t have a specific career in mind, concentrate on developing general employability skills.

All employers want graduates that are smart, but applicants showing they communicate well, are dependable and punctual, and take pride in a job done well are the candidates that shine through and get hired.”

Anyone with a 2.2 degree can apply online for a place on the NHS Scotland graduate management training scheme. Applications open each year in November, closing in the early part of the following January. For more information go to www.mts.scot.nhs.uk

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

Maersk, the leading shipping organisation, offers fully sponsored training towards marine related HNDs or Degrees and a prosperous career as a qualified deck or engineering officer onboard its world leading fleet.

To find out more simply visit our website:

www.seacareers.co.uk

Or call our Recruitment Team on: 0191 269 2500

THE MAERSK COMPANY

WORLD OF WORK

£ MONEY

SEXUAL HEALTH

I WANT TO WORK IN...TOURISM

UK . USA . Australia . Asia The Maersk Company can really take you places

NEWS

Formed in 1951 the Maersk Company is a leading British shipping company, owning or manning a fleet of over 60 vessels, employing approximately 2000 sea staff.

In order to maintain high quality deck and engineering officers, the company runs the ‘Officer Trainee Scheme’

SPORT CAREERS

AT SEA

Officer Trainee combine academic studies with practical training onboard state of the art vessels.

TAKE THE COMPETITIONS

PLUNGE

Tax Free Monthly Sponsorship. Tuition Paid.

Paid Travel. Full Uniform.

Have you any idea how varied and interesting the maritime sector is, or the role it plays in our everyday lives? In the UK we live on an island and marine-related activities are vital to our economy. With increasing world trade and growing maritime leisure interests, the range of supporting maritime activities is always growing. Some carers include; water sports instructors, naval architects, ship’s captains, hydrographers, offshore divers, lawyers, shipbrokers, chefs and entertainers.

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route from the west coast of America to the Far East. It was a great trip and an amazing experience. I’ll never forget sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge or into Hong Kong Harbour. Spending time at sea gave me a new prospective on life” Maria Quigley – qualifying cadet joining the Maersk container fleet.

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

Recognised Qualification “I’ve always been interested in this area and a cadetship seemed to be the best way to become an engineer. It’s good to see and learn. I’ll de doing more main engine work before I go back to college and qualify for engineering work” Callun Deane – Engineering Cadet

day – meeting new people, doing practical work as well as studying and being part of a team” Jason McAloone – Deck Cadet.

“I’ve already seen Dubai, India, Sri Lanka and Singapore.

It’s really enjoyable, with a different experience every

“After my first academic year, I embarked on a three-month sea trip aboard the container vessel, Maersk Gateshead, en

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

Life at sea with Maersk offers a challenging and rewarding career for highly motivated and proactive individuals.

Get onboard, find out more www.seacareers.co.uk

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What is the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service (RFA)?

WORLD OF WORK

RAF £

you’ll require a basic level of IN...TOURISM

CAREERS

AT SEA

SEXUAL HEALTH

secondary education - a lot of training is ‘on the job’. To be accepted onto our Officer Cadet programme, you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSE’s at grade ‘C’ or above, including Maths at grade ‘B’ or above, English and Physics or Dual Science. If you have good passes SPORT at ‘A’ level in these subjects, you could enter our Foundation Degree Officer Cadet programme. The RFA also looks to employ experienced seafarers, across all specialisations, with the required MCA certification.

COMPETITIONS

hether you’re looking to join us as a Rating or Officer cadet, you’ll benefit from training and support that will maximise your potential. With the RFA it’s a good life – you’ll enjoy the time to discover the sights and sounds of foreign ports of call, competitive salary and leave entitlement. A career at sea is full of adventure, and who better to do it with than the RFA.

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What qualifications are needed to join?

S EWRating, a position asN a Trainee I WANT TOFor WORK

MONEY

W

The primary role of the Service is to supply the Royal Navy at sea, with food, fuel, ammunition and spares it needs in order to maintain operations away from its home ports.

Are there any age limits?

The age range of those accepted for Trainee Rating positions is over 16 and up to 62 . For Officer Cadetships, the age range is over 16 and up to 60.

We accept qualified seafarers up to the age of 64.

Is the RFA part of the Royal Navy?

The RFA is a civilian-manned flotilla that is owned by the Ministry of Defence and answerable to Commander in Chief Fleet. All applicants must have British Citizenship and have been resident in the UK for at least 3 of the past 5 years..

Will my RN qualifications count

in the RFA?

Your RN qualifications and experience will need to be assessed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), they will provide you with advice on what, if any, additional experience you’ll need to obtain the required MCA certification.

What medical standards are required?

ROYAL FLEET AUXILIARY CAREERS AT SEA HOW FAR COULD A CAREER WITH THE RFA TAKE YOU? ANYWHERE AROUND THE WORLD, AT ANY TIME.

You will need to obtain an MCA, ENG1 medical standard of fitness and meet the statutory visual acuity and colour vision standard. You’ll also be required to satisfy the medical standards of the RFA. Both would be explained in full during the recruitment process.

What are the normal voyage lengths? How much leave is earned?

Is it paid leave?

4 months. Earned Voyage Leave is 69 days for Ratings and 87 days for officers for a 4-month voyage. Yes, Earned Voyage leave is paid.

Where do the ships of the RFA operate?

Ships of the RFA can be operating anywhere in the world, at any time. The flotilla was deployed in support of British Forces during the Falklands War and the Gulf War. Our ships also formed part of the British contribution to operations in the former Yugoslavia and are often deployed in support of Britain’s contribution to NATO and United Nations peace-keeping operations.

Are the career prospects good?If you are prepared to work hard and are willing to undertake further training in order to gain advanced qualifications, you’ll find opportunities for promotion within the RFA extremely good. www.royal-navy.mod.uk

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“When I discovered the RFA offered greater opportunities for training and experience across a broader spectrum I decided that it was the best route for me.” N Stubbs

MERCHANT NAVY MILITARY ACTION 08456 04 05 20 RFA.MOD.UK

THE RFA Unlike a commercial shipping company, you never know where your next destination will be. No foreign land or port is out of the question because the RFA is responsible for supporting the Royal Navy, keeping them supplied with everything they need - fuel, food, spares and ammunition. Or you could be delivering vital humanitarian aid whenever it is needed.

YOUR ROLE IN THE RFA Imagine being in charge on the bridge of a ship, taking responsibility for the engine room, overseeing the efficiency of all the electrical systems on board or catering for a hungry ship. If you can picture yourself in any of these roles, you may have what it takes to become a Rating or trainee RFA Officer.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU The RFA offers “a life less ordinary” for practical individuals with initiative, who enjoy a challenge and would relish the opportunity to travel around the world. The salary, training and leave entitlement is highly competitive combining all the benefits of a merchant shipping organisation with a true vocation and the excitement of supporting military operations or providing disaster relief.

FIND OUT MORE You can find out more by visiting

RFA.MOD.UK or by calling 08456 04 05 20

DO YOU CARE?

CONTENTS

STUDY ADVICE

ENTERTAINMENT

E

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WORLD OF WORK

£

Find out about a career in Social Work and Counselling Services

veryone encounters problems at some time in their lives.

Workers in social work and counselling services help people of all ages to face a wide range of difficulties and challenges. They aim to give people the advice and support they need to change their own lives and move forward in a positive way.

The sector can be divided loosely into the following occupational groups: • Counselling and therapy - helping people with a range of emotional problems • Advice and information - advising and supporting people in such areas as employment, career choice, welfare rights or debt • Social and community care supporting specific groups like families, young people, older people, homeless people or people

WHAT’S NEW

Advic e

with disabilities • Charities and voluntary organisations - provide a lot of support in this sector and need workers to raise funds, and recruit and organise volunteers so that their services can continue.

LIFEBYTE

Many people work daytime hours, Monday to Friday, but it may also be necessary to work in the evenings or at weekends. Some jobs involve shift work or a rota system to cover emergencies. Much of the work is office based. Other work may take place in hospitals, residential homes, hostels and day centres, schools, factories, youth clubs and clients’ homes. Many workers deal with clients face to face. Some provide advice and support by telephone.

Employers include the National Health Service (NHS), local authorities and national government organisations, as well as private companies of all sizes. Charities and

voluntary organisations have both volunteers and paid staff.

This sector employs around 1.6 million people. Demand for workers I WANT A... many career areas isMONEY increasing, CAREER ATinSEA particularly those involving the care of children and older people. There are opportunities throughout the UK. To work in this sector it is essential to enjoy working with people and genuinely want to help them. Listening skills, observational skills and the ability to relate to TRAVEL SEXUAL HEALTH people without being judgmental are very important. Management and organisational skills are also important for some roles.

Applicants for most jobs in this sector are required to have had previous relevant experience, either paid or voluntary. Some jobs do not qualifications.

FASHIONneed particular entryCOMPETITIONS Others demand a specific degree or postgraduate qualification, as well as a lot of supervised practical experience before people are fully qualified. It is possible to become a care worker through an Apprenticeship.

Many employers offer a combination of on-the-job training and in-house and external courses.

NVQs/SVQs are available in some career areas. Ongoing training is particularly important, as this sector is subject to constant change.

In general, promotion prospects are good, with many employers having a clearly defined career structure. LS For more information see www.connexions-direct.com

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WORLD OF WORK

£ MONEY

T

hey are employed in a wide range of jobs, including research and development, scientific analysis, education, the media and administration. Careers are mainly at technician and professional levels, and most I WANT TOpeople WORK in this sector specialise in a particular field, for IN...TOURISM example in ecology or forensic science.

NEWS

Work may be in a wide range of areas, including:

SEXUAL HEALTH

MAKING IT IN MATHS & SCIENCE COMPETITIONS

Scientists, mathematicians and statisticians use observation, experimentation and research to make discoveries, add to our knowledge and solve problems related to almost every aspect of our lives.

• Health and medicine researching the causes of SPORTdiseases and developing drugs • The food and drink industry researching and developing new products • Earth sciences and the environment - studying the Earth, oceans and climate • Materials science - studying the properties of materials such as metals, polymers and ceramics to provide innovative engineering solutions • Mathematics - solving problems and analysing data in a wide range of areas such as engineering, electronics, finance, medicine, meteorology and science • Statistics - gathering data and analysing it to identify and interpret trends • Education - teaching in schools or lecturing in universities.

Working environments vary, but many scientists work in laboratories, while others do mostly fieldwork. Some work with potentially hazardous substances.

Others, such as those developing

government policies or working in the media, work in an office.

Employers are wide ranging and include research organisations, manufacturing and engineering companies, universities, schools, hospitals and government departments. Many of these are large multinational organisations employing thousands of staff, while others are small to mediumsized businesses. The demand for science and mathematics graduates is currently high and is forecast to increase further.

Environmental concerns are just one of the reasons for this growth.

Scientists, mathematicians and statisticians need to have a methodical and accurate approach to their work and be self-disciplined when analysing data to solve problems. Communication skills are important for sharing information with colleagues and customers.

Scientists must also pay attention to health and safety regulations.

Entry is usually with a relevant degree, and often a postgraduate qualification. Some jobs require work experience as well. It is also possible to work as a technician or assistant, for which the entry requirements are usually GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3).

On-the-job training is given to new employees, and they may also study for further qualifications.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is important as this field is constantly changing and developing.

Career progression is often to senior supervisory and management roles, and there are sometimes opportunities to work abroad. LS

You’ll be shaken and stirred.

Much of the engineering and science taking place in the Ministry of Defence would not be out of place in the latest James Bond film - and yet it is a reality. Technologies of breathtaking speed, power and capacity; providing a decisive technological edge.

We are: The Ministry of Defence, Defence Engineering and Science Group.

Organisation Description: Central Government. The DESG is the team of thousands of engineers and scientists within the MoD. DESG offers you many benefits including: 1.

Probably the very best graduate development scheme for engineers and scientists available in the UK – fully accredited by IMechE, IET, ICE, RINA, IoP and RAeS

2.

Massive investment in you. Over and above your salary, the investment in support of your personal professional development will be around £20,000 per year!

3.

An accelerated path to Chartered status in your engineering or science profession; with the DESG it’s possible for you to achieve professional Chartership in just four years.

4.

A truly rewarding career. MoD projects are fascinating, valuable, unique and sometimes highly classified.

Degree Disciplines required: A multitude of engineering disciplines - also sciences with an emphasis on Physics.

Sixth Form:

You could attend the prestigious Welbeck Defence Sixth Form College – an amazing opportunity to gain a first class education (See www.desg.mod.uk and click student opportunities).

Undergraduate Sponsorship: Visit our website (Click ‘Student Opportunities for details).

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

www.desg.mod.uk The MoD is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

CONTENTS

Animal care

LANDING THE RIGHT JOB

The animal care industry comprises many different types of business, the majority being small and medium-sized enterprises. It is estimated that in the UK there are approximately 13,300 businesses currently employing around 47,500 people.

The industry includes: pet shops, boarding kennels and catteries, pet breeders, dog training and grooming, animal welfare charities such as the RSPCA and the Canine Defence League, zoos and wildlife parks, performing animals in film and television, and public services. Other roles for those in the industry include training guide dogs for the disabled and dog handling within the forces.

Changes in consumer lifestyles have also impacted on pet ownership and how pets are looked after. There has been a general increase in pet ownership, and an increase in interest in various forms of animal care, with increased media attention on animal welfare organisations.

There are a wide range of opportunities in the land-based and animal welfare sector. Careers are based around the land-management and production, animal health and welfare and environmental industries and all of these areas play a hugely important role in the economy.

Veterinary nursing Veterinary nurses work in

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

WORLD OF WORK

£

Getting to know the industries Lantra works with 17 different industries from the following groups: • Land management and production • Animal health and welfare • Environmental industries.

WHAT’S NEW

association with vets in the care and treatment of animal patients.

They work mainly with domestic animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, caged birds and small reptiles.

They may also work with horses and farm animals.

A veterinary nurse will carry out diagnostic tests, medical treatments and minor surgical procedures under the supervision of a veterinary surgeon. They also help to educate owners about looking after their pets.

“ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION CAN INCLUDE LOCAL ISSUES SUCH AS COMMUNITY RECYCLING, PLANNING AND PARKS; NATIONAL ISSUES SUCH AS POLLUTION, ROADS AND AREAS OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY; AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES SUCH AS GLOBAL WARMING.”

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

industry. A large proportion of the There are workforce is voluntary, casual or currently 7419 RCVS part time with an estimated 56,100 (Royal College paid employees in total working of Veterinary I WANT A...

STUDY ADVICE Surgeons) listed this sector alongsideMONEY 200,000 CAREER ATinSEA volunteers. veterinary nurses and 3781 enrolled student veterinary nurses.

Horticulture, Veterinary Nursing provides landscape and sports a range of opportunities for turf industries work in veterinary practices and Landscape is the design, planning, specialist referral centres as well creation and maintenance of as connected industries such as designed landscapes, both urban TRAVEL ENTERTAINMENT SEXUAL HEALTH pharmaceuticals and pet nutrition. and rural, and the interiors of buildings. It involves everything from managing sports turf, golf Environmental courses, parks and historic gardens conservation d v A ic e to planning domestic gardens and Environmental conservation leisure facilities. involves a range of activities from Some businesses work on recycling household waste to large projects such as motorway habitat management. It does not LIFEBYTE landscape construction, while simply involve ‘green issues’; it isFASHION COMPETITIONS others provide services such as about using scientific knowledge to domestic gardening or paving. produce a sustainable environment.

It is estimated that the Conservation includes the landscape industry is made up of protection of rural and urban nearly 8,000 businesses employing landscapes, plants and animals approximately. and countryside recreation. The industry includes the conservation, protection and management of rivers, coastal zones and waterways.

Environmental conservation can include local issues such as community recycling, planning and parks; national issues such as pollution, roads and areas of outstanding natural beauty; and international issues such as global warming.

There are estimated to be 4,900 organisations in the UK environmental conservation

35

Want to be a doctor, a podiatrist, a vet, a radiographer, a nurse, an orthotist???

Equine

The equine industry is diverse, offering opportunities ranging from livery operations to thoroughbred racehorse training.

Work in the industry covers the welfare, supervision and riding of horses.

It is estimated that in the UK there are 8000 equine businesses currently employing over 54,000 people. Employers in the industry include riding schools, livery yards, racing yards, breeders, trainers and those involved in various other equine-related activities such equine massage and dentistry.

Horses are a major asset for their owners, which need the skilled attention of devoted and welltrained staff.

Horse racing, eventing and show jumping are increasing in popularity, and this is reflected in an increased population of horses.

The UK spends over £2 billion on the equine industry each year.

There are approximately 900,000 horses and ponies in the UK and 2 million riders, which demonstrates the country’s love of horses and the business potential in the equine industry. Riding lessons alone are worth over £500 million.

Floristry

Floristry is the design and assembly of floral displays for sale to members of the public or corporate customers. As well as selling individual items, florists

There are degrees in the health professions for everyone.

The Advice Clinic is the London Regional Project working to widen participation in the Health Professions. It is a partnership of 18 Higher Education Institutions and offers a range of activities to schools and FE colleges for students, for staff, and, for parents.

deal with large-scale events such as christenings, birthdays, weddings, funerals, sporting events, conferences and state occasions.

The industry is mostly made up of small businesses. These are often linked together by large relay organisations like Interflora Flowers, Teleflorist and Flowergram.

Because businesses are small, each person has an important role to play. Successful florists possess a variety of skills including sales, marketing, promotion, personnel, accounts, stock ordering, environment and hygiene.

The UK fresh cut flower and indoor plant market is worth over £1.5 billion, which means that each person spends an average of £26 per year on cut flowers and indoor plants. There are approximately 8,200 floristry businesses in the UK, employing around 26,200 people. LS

Through the individual partners the Project provides: Taster Courses Saturday Schools Masterclasses Information, Advice and Guidance Check out our website on www.nobarriers2uni.org Contact Claire Edden, Project Officer, the Advice Clinic, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU

For further information see www.lantra.co.uk

TEL 020 7468 1235 36

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

STUDY ADVICE

PAI NT N W O T E H T

Pi NK

With a recent No 1 in Britain and America with the single, So What, outspoken punkster Pink has never felt bigger and braver… here are some of Pink’s vital statistics….

Real name?

Alecia Moore (born September 8, 1978), known professionally as Pink or P!nk.

rock-based second studio album, M!ssundaztood, was released in 2001 and is her biggest seller to date.

So is the “bad girl” image true?

Pink did spend her teenage years dabbling in drugs and petty crime before turning her life around as a performer. As she said in the Daily Mail recently: “I was every mother’s nightmare child. I was angry, I was confused, I was wild, I was trouble, I got expelled, I got arrested so many times my mum knew all the police by name in Philadelphia. Part of it was because I felt. I didn’t really fit in anywhere but part of it was because I was a natural-born rebel…. But getting a record deal was a bigger kick than anything a drug had ever given me. I had all these things to say and I wanted to get them out there into the world. I needed to be strong and focused, so that was it.”

Biggest influences?

Bette Midler, Janis Joplin, Steven Tyler, Bad Religion, Mary J. Blige, Bob Marley, Billy Joel, Indigo Girls, Don McLean, 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G. Pink. …and is she gay?

Pink has just got divorced from motocross racer Carey Hart and is a gay rights supporter. She says: “Everyone has always thought I was gay because of the tattoos, the short hair, the attitude. But I don’t care. I love to challenge people’s preconceptions. Loads of my friends are lesbians and it really annoys me that gay people aren’t allowed to get married in most parts of America. I’d go on a march for gay rights any time.”

How did she first get into music?

When in high school, Pink joined her first band called Middleground. She began performing in Philadelphia clubs when she was fourteen years old. At sixteen, she joined the R&B Atlanta-based trio Choice, which included Chrissy Conway of the Christian girl group ZOEgirl. Pink released her first record, the R&Boriented Can’t Take Me Home, in 2000 via LaFace Records. Her pop

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What about her love life?

In 2006 Pink married Carey Hart, however Pink has now filed for divorce and the two have remained good friends. As she confessed: “I wish it could have worked out, because he’s the only person in the whole world who totally gets me. To be honest, even when he said yes I knew there was a little part of both of us that couldn’t handle being

LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

ENTERTAINMENT

Advic e

LIFEBYTE

“I WAS EVERY MOTHER’S NIGHTMARE CHILD. I WAS ANGRY, I WAS CONFUSED, I WAS WILD, I WAS TROUBLE, I GOT EXPELLED...”

married. We did it because we loved each other so much. We wanted to eat each other all the time we were together, but maybe marriage wasn’t ever going to be our thing. I’m not over it. I love him.”

Did she really tell off Prince William about going hunting?

Yes, Prince William wanted her to play at a concert for his 21st birthday, she wrote back saying she wouldn’t until he explained why he went hunting. She also wrote to the Queen before the Prince’s Trust concert asking why bearskins couldn’t be made of synthetic material. She is a supporter of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and says about animal rights: “I want to make people think about their responsibilities. I don’t care if they have a crown.”

Pink’s new album Funhouse is out now.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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YOUTH NATION

FASHION

His 1. Double breasted peacoat £65, Skinny stripe print scarf £8, Skinny jeans £25.

2. Clear frame glasses £12, Shirt with matching tie £25, Grey marl duffle coat £50, Knitted waistcoat £20, Straight fit trousers £25.

His & hers fashion at comfortable prices, ASOS.com solves your every fashion need.

Here are 2 outfits to get your taste-buds juicing.

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LIFEBYTE

Hers 1. Paint splatter ankle grazer jean £30, Bag with checked fabric section £18, Leather patent loafer shoe £55, ASOS Premium Silk Cotton Cutwork Blouse £35.

2. Jersey woven bow top £20, Striped skirt £15, Oversized pearl wristband £14.

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

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ENTERTAINMENT

Advic e

PLANET EARTH CALLING

LIFEBYTE What it’s all about? We give you the one, the only, incredibly amazing, astoundingly stunning planet Earth.

It’s all we’ve ever had, and it’s pretty much all we’ve got left. Yet research shows that we are using our planet’s resources at a faster rate than it can replenish them. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, you name it.

It’s all pretty much down to us and our insatiable appetite as a species.

Connect2earth.org urges us all to play our part in saving the world!

So what do we do then?

How do we go about ensuring that the world we live on can indeed be lived on; within its means, within its capacity to support us. All of us.

Connect2earth.com is supported by:Moby - American musician & singer James Blunt - British singer and songwriter Ziggy Marley - Jamaican singer, songwriter, musician, producer Estelle - British singer and songwriter

Top planet saving tips

Make a difference. You may have read some of these tips a thousand times. For some of you it may be the first time. But whatever the time, this is not going to be like any other time....

You don’t need to start wearing thick knitted woollen jumpers, or stop washing your hair, or live a radically altered and less pleasurable life.

This is all about celebrating life.

Its majesty. Its glory. Its diversity.

And whether you are at home, out shopping or even in the garden - you really can make a difference. LS

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

SO HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO: 1 Recycle your paper 2 Buy Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood products look for the symbol of the tree with the tick on it. [What’s FSC?] 3 Look for the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified mark when buying fish. [What’s MSC?] 4 Use recycled paper.

5 Use rechargeable batteries.

6 Travel less by car and plane and more by foot, bicycle and public transport.

7 Use organic compost and mulch to improve soil health and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.

8 Use energy-efficient household appliances you can afford and turn off appliances and light when you are not using them.

9 Switch to energy efficient light bulbs. They save electricity and money!

10 Look for products that have less packaging.

11 Save water by turning off the tap when brushing your teeth.

12 Switch to non-polluting green electricity from your electricity company. If they don’t sell it, can you change power companies to one that does? Get your school, company or community to buy renewable energy, too.

13 Say “No” to bad souvenirs.

Think twice before you buy any products made from any endangered species, including animal hides and body parts, tortoise-shell, ivory, or coral - they could be illegal.

14 Take your own bags to the shops to carry home your groceries and shopping.

15 Use the washing machine or dish washer only when you have a full load. Use washing powder suitable for low temperature washes and use economy programmes.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Advic e

Talk to someone who you can trust especially if you feel:

• Irritable and in a bad mood all the time.

• Anger towards yourself and at everything you do.

• Anger that makes you want to hurt yourself or someone else.

These could be signs of depression and you shouldn’t have to go through these emotions alone.

Confide in a close family member, a friend, parent/carer or a teacher.

Feeling angry is a natural emotion. We all get angry at some point in our lives and you may feel angry for a number of reasons.

For instance, the changes in your body during puberty can cause mood swings or you might feel under a lot of pressure with work, exams or at home. You might also have seen people in your family react angrily, so you do the same.

No matter what pushes your buttons, anger is a normal emotion and you’re bound to feel angry at some point.

REAL RAGE!!

DEALING WITH ANGER

Try and handle your anger by:

• Tune into your feelings and think about what makes you angry and why.

• Write down your feelings so the next time you can put into words how angry you feel.

• Try and compose yourself and your thoughts, so you can formulate a constructive argument.

• Think about how your reactions will affect other people and what the consequences of your actions will be.

Anger is a strong emotion and learning to deal with it takes effort, practice and patience. You need to really think about why you are feeling angry; sometimes anger is a sign that you are upset about a far deeper issue inside.

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LEAVINGSCHOOL.CO.UK

Other Ways to Manage Anger

Besides the steps above you may want to consider other forms of physical activity to control your anger: • Exercise - Go for a walk, a run, work out, or play sport with friends. By getting away from the situation and putting your energies into a physical activity you have time to clear your head and put your feelings into perspective.

• Listen to music - Put on some of your favourite tunes. Music can help to change your mood.

• Put pen to paper - Instead of reacting angrily try and put down all your feelings and emotions on paper. Some people find it easier to express themselves through writing and it can help not to let things build up inside.

• Meditate or practice deep breathing - This can help in various ways. Whether you’re feeling angry or stressed the technique teaches you self-control and if you do it regularly, you’ll find that anger is less likely to build up.

• Talk about your feelings - A problem shared is a problem halved and more than likely a close family member or friend can relate to how you are feeling and give you the advice you need.

These are great ways of distracting you from how angry you are feeling and will allow you the space you need to cool down. It also gives you the chance to think and manage you anger instead of dwelling on it.

Everyone can change, and deciding to get control of your anger rather than letting it control you is the first major step. LS

LIFEBYTE

WHO CAN HELP? Talk to your parents or carers, a close family member, friend or teacher they may have felt like you at some point and can give you advice on how to deal with certain situations.

Visit the BBC website for more information on anger management www.bbc. co.uk/health/conditions/ mental_health/coping_ angermanagement1.shtml.

You can speak to a Personal Adviser at your local Connexions Centre. You can contact a Connexions Direct Adviser by phone on 080 800 13 2 19, by text on 07766 4 13 2 19, by textphone 08000 968 336, by adviser online or by email.

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STUDY ADVICE

for males and females.

Who should go for an STI test? nybody who has had unprotected sex and is worried that they might have come into contact with a sexually transmitted infection.

A

Where should I go to have one?

Ideally to your nearest sexual health or GUM clinic. Your GP may be able to perform some of the tests, but you’ll get more specialist advice and treatment at a GUM clinic.

Some family planning clinics or health clinics for young people may offer sexual health services and/or advice, as well.

Will it be confidential?

Special laws exist to protect personal information at a GUM clinic, so all information you provide stays confidential.

Can I give a false name and details?

Yes, it is fine to give a false name it is helpful if you remember it however for when you need to return! It is always useful if the clinic has a means of contacting you if, for example, they need to let you know about an infection that needs treatment.

Should I book in advance?

Some places are appointment only so it’s best to ring in advance to find out. Many GUM clinics will offer a walk-in service or a triage service (sorting emergencies according to priority) if you have an urgent problem, but be prepared to get in a queue.

Will they ask what I am booking for when I call?

Most clinics will just book you in for an appointment. They may ask you if you have previously attended their

46

Do I have to state which STI I want to be tested for?

The doctor, nurse or sexual health advisor will ask some questions to build up a picture of your sexual history and help decide what tests need to be done. Quite often young people will be seen by a sexual health adviser or nurse before seeing the doctor to discuss your concerns and answer any questions that you may have.

PLAYING IT SAFE If you think you may have been exposed to a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), do the right think and get yourself checked out at your local GUM (Genito-Urinary Medicine) or sexual health clinic. service. If you are calling for advice or information they may ask what it is to do with in order to direct you to the appropriate person.

What if I am under 16?

You can still be seen in complete confidence if you are under the age of 16. If you test positive for an infection, they would keep that information confidential. They will not inform your parents, school or doctor.

What happens when I arrive?

You are normally asked to register when you arrive so that they can

make a set of notes for you with a confidential number. Again, you can provide as little or as much information as you like but it is helpful for them to have a means of contacting you in case, for example, they need to let you know about an infection that needs treatment.

What does the clinic look like?

It looks very much like a GP surgery, but the surroundings obviously depend on the clinic you visit - some are more modern than others. In many, you’ll find that the waiting room is divided into sides

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What sorts of questions will they ask me?

• What are you concerned about?

• How many people have you had sex with recently and were they male or female (or both)?

• What type of sex was it (e.g. anal/ oral etc)?

• Have you ever had an STI before?

• Are you on any medication?

It is important to answer truthfully, as the tests you have will be based on your answers. If you are unsure why some of the questions are asked, explain that you want a clearer explanation.

But I’m embarrassed We recognise that some people do feel embarrassed about sex, and were trained to deal with that, but you really don’t need to be.

Clinics are very non-judgemental places and all of the staff are used to dealing with every issue and

CAREER AT SEA

situation that can arise. Some clinics can arrange for you to be seen by someone of a particular gender, which can help to put your TRAVEL ENTERTAINMENT mind at rest, but make sure you ask about this when you call.

SEXUAL HEALTH

speak to the doctor or nurse that is What do Advicthe tests involve? e doing them beforehand.

Where your tests are taken from depends on the sexual history that How long do I have to wait for you will have discussed with the the results? doctor. You may have one or more LIFEBYTE Some results can be given of the following tests, dependingFASHION COMPETITIONS immediately if the presence of on what infections you are being an infection shows up by direct tested for: observation however most will • Urine test (try not to go to the have to be sent to a laboratory. You toilet for two hours before the may be asked to return for another test) appointment in a week or so to • Samples for various infections discuss your results. from the urethra, vagina, cervix (neck of the womb), throat or Do I have to pay? rectum. These are sometimes All tests and treatment are free, called swabs. along with condoms and lubricants.

• The doctor may use something called a speculum to examine What happens if the results are female patients. positive?

• Blood tests (for syphilis) First they would talk to you about • H IV testing is routinely offered the nature of the infection and what in most GUM clinics. You may sort of treatment it will involve. They want to have one depending on would also discuss the importance your concerns and sexual history. of contacting partners, which is You will probably be referred to a essential in terms of stopping sexual health adviser to discuss the spread of infections. You can this issue further or to answer any do this on your own, or we can questions you may have. sometimes do that on your behalf.

You may need to see a sexual Are they painful? health adviser again, who will The swabs/ tests aren’t painful, discuss these issues with you and but they can sometimes be a little give you further information and uncomfortable. If you are worried advice. about any of the tests, always

“YOU CAN STILL BE SEEN IN COMPLETE CONFIDENCE IF YOU ARE UNDER THE AGE OF 16. IF YOU TEST POSITIVE FOR AN INFECTION, THEY WOULD KEEP THAT INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL. THEY WILL NOT INFORM YOUR PARENTS, SCHOOL OR DOCTOR.”

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MONEY

How often should I be tested from now on?

It entirely depends on whether you are in a regular relationship and whether you think you may have been in contact with an STI. The main thing to remember is, if you think you have been at risk, always have a check-up. LS

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"

STUDY ADVICE

GAME OF THE MONTH

FILM OF THE MONTH

Lego Batman

ENTERTAINMENT

Advic e

tirade of little Lego enemies serve as ‘Sock’ and ‘Kapow’ fodder, soon becoming incredibly annoying and serve as an unwelcome distraction from the puzzle at hand.

There’s no doubt that fans of previous games in the series will lap this up with vigour but for the more discerning gamer, it’s difficult not to think these games are getting close to saturation point. One can only tolerate and ignore so much under the guise of “It’s only Lego and for kids” for so long. However, keeping the total package in focus, none of the gratings can prevent the overall enjoyment of the series seeping out. It’s still fun to watch a little character build something wonderful out of Lego and to try and collect as many studs and booty as possible.

It’s socially acceptable and family orientated co-operative gaming that resonates with non-gamers and for that, Lego is still top of its own pile. Is it too late to send a copy to Madonna and Guy?

LIFEBYTE

ALBUM OF THE MONTH LEAVING

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE...

SCHOOL

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RESPONSE CARD

Please cut out and tick boxes from organisations you would like more information about q Camp America Please fill out the details below and post the slip in an envelope to: q City & Islington College Leaving School Response q DESG Sugar Media Ltd q Maersk Studio 4 Hiltongrove, q NHS Scotland 14 Southgate Road, q PricewaterhouseCooper London N1 3LY United Kingdom q RAF

q Royal Fleet Auxillary q Royal Veterinary College q Selex Sas University of Southampton q

Or you can...

48

REVIEWS

We can all relate to the Dark Knight. That’s possibly what contributes and underpins his monumental success over the years. He doesn’t have any super powers or genetic mutations like Kent or Parker, he is merely your average Joe who decided to take a stand and clean up a city for the greater good. If we didn’t know better, we might think it was Boris Johnson behind the iconic mask. The details point to him being a billionaire, having a butler, being ‘nails’, driving fantastical vehicles and wearing suits that make a lady swoon but abstracting over that - we all fancy the idea of giving chavs a beating while dressed as a giant bat.

For the uninitiated, Lego Batman is a simple mix of platform antics, puzzle based elements and a collection mechanic that would make Heather Mills blush. For its lay audience, this is merely a case of opening a door to the next playable area by utilising certain character specific attributes. An example of this might be making good use of Batman’s famous batarang to knock down a box of Lego off a high shelf, which Robin must then piece together to create a key for a lock.

All the old favourites from the back catalog are still very much in vogue. Play is extended with an extensive collectable system which offers reward of goodies such as costumes, characters and trophies. With each new character come new abilities so all the levels are unlockable for free play mode to keep score-whores and hoarders occupied. Combat is par for the course, with a one dimensional approach of button mashing. The

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Post code......................................................

E-mail..............................................................

Fill this out via email to info@sugarmedia.co.uk

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P!nk- Funhouse

Don’t underestimate Pink. She sells millions, on the back of her genuinely felt self-informed lyrics, sung in an un-cleared throaty voice, and her songs take you with her.

Pink’s mastered the pop punk sound in a way that the likes of Ashlee Simpson and Kelly Clarkson can only dream of, due, in part, to the people she works with – this album includes collaborations with Billy Mann, the guy she wrote Stupid Girls and I’m Not Dead with. But it’s mainly because she pours herself into the songs with humour and grace.

This album is a testament to her recent divorce, and biffed by life once again, she’s worked through and the resultant therapeutic notes are Funhouse.

Aggressively swinging opener, So What, slams Pink’s cards down on the table setting the defiant, self-deprecating tone of the album. ‘’I guess I just lost my husband, I don’t care where he went’’. It contains immortal lines, ‘’I’m alright I’m fine and you’re a tool’’, and the video actually has the aforementioned ex-husband in there, dancing along, (which could be construed as a teensy bit too knowing) so all’s fair in love and promotion.

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Sober, with its heavy guitars and booming snare discusses the blackouts resulting from drinking to avoid becoming those she sneers at. She admits the party’s finally over, until Bad Influence, when she gets it started again: complete with circus organ, this is her L.O.V.E.-style getting-on-down-with-the-girls anthem.

The title track is a joyous, wanton destruction of a framework that no longer fits, backed by a heavy disco beat, breaking down into some blues riff with boogie woogie piano, while roadhouse rockin’ Mean discusses the train wreck of her marriage, and the energy she gains from hating her partner.

Likewise, It’s All Your Fault trips along with cross-rhythms and little piano riff, full of regret, emptiness and rage.

The more melancholic ballads Pink insists on recording don’t seem to be particularly fun for anyone, but thankfully they are in a minority here: piano based ballad Glitter In The Air is a bit of a damp squib. I’m not sure what the significance of throwing a fistful of glitter in the air is, but this wimpy attitude doesn’t really fit in the celebratory dysfunctional Funhouse.

Released: 27 October 2008 Written by Lucy Davies, www.bbc.co.uk

ALSO LOOK OUT FOR FILMS

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa GAMES

Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts ALBUMS

Britney Spears Circus Jay Z - Blueprint Lii

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CAREER AT SEA

TRAVEL

FASHION

Josh’s Story

J

MONEY

HOLIDAY ROMANCE...

HEAVEN OR HELL? SEXUAL HEALTH

Whether you are working on a gap year or relaxing on holiday, falling COMPETITIONS in love overseas can bring both joy and pain. Here is how 16 year old Josh coped when he fell for Kate in Portugal.

osh is nearly 16 and has just gone into Year 11 at school. He went to Portugal with his parents and his mate Jake in August and for the first time, he was allowed more freedom to go out and about with Jake.

They met a couple of English girls who were slightly older and staying in the apartment block next to theirs.

They hung around together all holiday and Josh got on really well with one of the girls, called Kate.

They promised to stay in touch when they got back to England as Kate only lived 10 miles away from Josh.

Things were going really well. They were on the phone all the time and sent each other texts and emails.

Josh’s parents invited Kate to stay for the weekend and Kate got to meet and go out with all Josh’s mates.

The calls continued and Josh went across to stay with Kate’s family and met the rest of her mates.

Then things started to change - there were fewer calls and emails and Kate took ages to reply to text messages. Josh has tried to talk to Kate about it but she says nothing is wrong. Kate has just started college and says she is really busy getting to grips with all the coursework and the reading she needs to do.

Josh is still keen but is worried that Kate has gone off him or that she might think he is too young now she is mixing with college students. His mates, particularly Jake have told him to forget about it.

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IN...TOURISM

SPORT

And here’s advice given to Josh by a Connexions advisor...

Hi Josh

I

t’s good to hear from you, thanks for getting in touch with Connexion Direct. I am sorry to hear that you are having a rough time at the moment. Relationships can be really tough and our feelings and emotions can be so strong that it can make the situation seem like it’s never going to get better.

You obviously had a great time on holiday and getting to know Kate when you got back home. It is difficult when one of the people in a relationship changes the situation that they are in. Sometimes that person does just need time to get used to the changes and for a little while they feel like they need to throw themselves into their new life because everything is so unfamiliar. However unfortunately it might be that Kate has become so involved in her new life that she is ready to move on from your relationship.

Although you have tried to ask what the problem is and not gotten anywhere, it is completely fair for you to want to know where you stand, even if the answer may be hard to take. Can you try talking to Kate again? Ask if she wants to be in your relationship any more. Ask her to be honest and explain that you know something has changed and would prefer to sort things out one way or the other rather than feel pushed away all the time. If you think it would be hard to talk, why not write down your thoughts and feelings so that you can get everything down how you want to say it.

Having a relationship end can be really tough, but like I said before the painful feelings won’t last forever.

It is important to find lots of support for yourself, go out with friends, do some of your favourite hobbies or spend time with your family. It might be good to pick one or two close people to talk to about your feelings with. You don’t have to talk constantly about the situation, but it is best not to bottle up all of your feelings. If you need someone to chat to Connexions Direct advisors are always here on 080 800 13 2 19 from 8am-2am every day. Or you can contact us on web chat at www.connexions-direct.co.uk.

I hope this helps and that things start to get better soon. LS

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