Moving on September/October 2014

Sept/Oct 2014

Choices, choices…

Job options in all skill sectors

Maika Monroe interview Meet the leading actress of film thriller The Guest

ExCeL, 21 - 22 NOVEMBER

Visit London’s biggest jobs and careers event Pre-register for FREE ENTRY at www.skillslondon2014.co.uk

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Money matters facebook.com/MovingOnMagazine @MovingOn_mag

Help with funding your studies

www.movingonmagazine.co.uk MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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DISCOVER WHO YOU COULD BE TOMORROW #OPENDOORS Year 11+? Come and meet employers to find out what doors are open to you.

Our Employer Speed Dating sessions take place every hour on our stand in Hall 1.

THE SKILLS SHOW THE NEC, BIRMINGHAM 13-15 NOVEMBER 2014

For more information visit us at

OPENDOORS.CITYANDGUILDS.COM Subscribe at

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MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

Still from The Guest courtesy of Adam David Productions

CONTENTS

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Letter from the editor Kate Newton introduces this new term, new look, info-packed issue.

Meet this month’s line-up of talented student writers.

News Read all about it! The latest news, views and happenings…

11 Making it – in manufacturing

Careers in making and producing the stuff we use every day.

13 Construct your future

Practical, creative and technical jobs in the construction industry.

17 Trade-off

Painter and decorator, electrician, welder – careers in the skilled trades.

19 Open Days

Follow our comprehensive guide and visit all your uni choices before you apply.

21 Money matters

How to get someone else to pay for (at least part of!) your university education.

23 Power forward

More jobs need to be filled in the power industry as the demand for alternative energy sources increases.

24 Maika Monroe

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Contributors

Moving On interviewed this rising new star of the horror/thriller movie genre.

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26 Care and share

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Working with the elderly can be challenging but the rewards can be great.

29 Well tasty!!!

Appetising careers in the food and drink manufacturing industry.

31 Make and model

Zoom into a top gear job in the booming motor manufacturing industry.

33 I, Robot

The fast-growing UK robotics industry needs new talent to fuel its workforce.

35 Qualifications explained

Understanding the multitude of qualifications you could study to get you into your dream job.

38 Museum piece

An interview with Lisa Beauchamp about life as an art gallery and museum curator.

41 smART moves

Things you can do with art qualifications.

43 Bank on it

Ways into working in the finance and accounting sector.

46 Good to know…

How young people can get involved in political issues.

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Higher Apprenticeships from icAew

ASSURANCE/AUDIT OR TAX: WHICH ROUTE WILL YOU CHOOSE INTO A HIGHLY SKILLED CAREER The Higher Apprenticeships in Assurance/Audit and Tax offer you the opportunity to earn while you learn. You’ll gain work experience, business skills and an internationally-recognised certificate-level qualification in finance, accounting and business (ICAEW CFAB) to kick-start your career.

Start your journey. Visit icaew.com/higherapprenticeships

MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014 BUSINESS WITH CONFIDENCE

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icaew.com/higherapprenticeships

EDITOR’S LETTER

Letter from the editor Welcome to the first, new-look Moving On of this academic year. We hope you’ve had a great summer and that you’re back behind your desks, knuckling down to some hard work… just like the super-swotty Moving On team!

In this issue we have covered all bases to give you a taste of what’s out there in the world of work – with information Publisher Lynette Daly Editor Kate Newton Email: editor@walpolepublishing.co.uk Student contributors Louis Ashworth, Erica Barnes, Alice Cattley, Emily Frost, Summer Shuttlewood, Melissa Snow, Leyan Yucel Production Manager Anthony Brooks Advertising Robert Yates, Manager Email: ryates@walpolepublishing.co.uk Tel: 01789 509006

on jobs and careers in all the main skill sectors and industries. There is also a great guide to getting the best out of university Open Days, a piece on how to get someone else to pay for your uni studies and an article which will help you to get your head around all the different qualifications you can choose from to work towards.

For a bit of light relief from all the fabulous, factual info on education and training, read our fantastic interview with the actress Maika Monroe, scream queen extraordinaire and star of The Guest and It Follows. Read and enjoy, with or without the lights on!

George Bowers, Account Manager Email: george@walpolepublishing.co.uk Tel: 01789 509005 Chris Bird, Account Manager Email: chris@walpolepublishing.co.uk Tel: 01789 509004 Schools, colleges & sixth form Annual Subscription Email: info@walpolepublishing.co.uk

Don’t forget to come and see us at The Skills Show on 13 to 15 November at the NEC in Birmingham – we’ll be on a stand with the lovely guys and girls from Not Going to Uni – we love a good chat so don’t be shy – come and say hello!

I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to all this month’s fabulous student contributors and once again, if you’d like to have a go at writing for Moving On magazine, go ahead and contact me at: editor@walpolepublishing.co.uk

Walpole Publishing Ltd. Union House 7-9 Union Street Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire CV37 6QT Tel: 01789 509001 Special thanks to Jacky and Ian White at Propak (UK) Ltd.

Kate Newton Editor

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Transform you future with a degree that will prepare you for professional practice.

Open Day Saturday 27th November Register now at www.bradfordcollege.ac.uk T: 01274 433333 E: information@bradfordcollege.ac.uk /onemilemore @bradfordcollege Our degrees are validated by Teesside University

FREE ENTRY

ExCeL LONDON, 21 - 22 NOVEMBER 2014

Visit London’s biggest jobs and careers event Bursting with careers From property to engineering For 15 - 24 year olds and families Over 40,000 jobs, including Apprenticeships, on offer

Organised by

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@skillslondon

MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

/SkillsLondon

Pre-register for FREE ENTRY at www.skillslondon2014.co.uk Partners

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

CONTRIBUTORS

Student w riters

Louis Ashworth

Erica Barnes

English University of Cambridge

A-levels The De Montfort School, Evesham

“I tackled a number of different tasks at Moving On, including researching and writing articles and assisting other writers. It was a fascinating insight into the production and editing process of a magazine.”

“My experience at Moving On was great; it taught me important skills that I wouldn’t be able to learn elsewhere whilst allowing me to help my peers through my contributions.”

“Contributing to Moving On has been a great experience! I found both the research and the writing really interesting, and it has taught me a lot about working for a magazine.”

Summer Shuttlewood

Melissa Snow

Emily Frost English Literature and Creative Writing De Montfort University “I really enjoyed my time at Moving On as it gave me insight into the publishing industry as well the opportunity to have some of my own writing published.”

Leyan Yucel A-levels Cox Green School, Berkshire “I loved writing for Moving On magazine as it gave me a taste of what it was like to be a journalist and convinced me that this is the career path I would like to follow. Thank you so much for this opportunity!”

A-levels Coopers Company and Coborn school “I enjoyed writing for Moving On Magazine, and learning a lot about an industry that affects my life every day.”

Alice Cattley A-levels Saffron Walden County High School

A-levels Alcester Grammar School “Writing for Moving On provided me with experience and skills in the field of Journalism. I was able to independently research and structure my own article, and loved the opportunity to do so!”

Planning a career as a journalist or photographer? Enjoy writing, simply for pleasure? Where better to showcase your talents than in Moving On magazine?

Not only could you find yourself admiring your own by-line in this very magazine but also – how good is it going to look on your CV and on your Personal Statement that you’re a published writer or photographer who has contributed to a nationally distributed publication?

Email your CV and samples of your work to: editor@walpolepublishing.co.uk

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NEWS

DISOBEDIENT OBJECTS AT THE V&A MUSEUM

tatutory guidance published by the Department for Education has laid out the details of schools’ requirements when offering careers advice to their pupils.

The guidance is supported by an inspirational vision statement and informs governing bodies, school leaders and school staff of their duty to secure independent careers guidance for young people.

The guidance emphasises that “Careers education is about inspiration as much as advice” and points out why schools need to do more to set high expectations for their pupils.

Schools must ensure that pupils are given impartial information and advice that covers the full range of pathways available to them with the focus being on what is in the best interests of each individual pupil.

In-house careers advice already offered by schools is fine but this must now be combined with independent, external advice and guidance in order to meet legal requirements.

The raised participation age now means that a pupil who started in Year 11 or below in September 2013 will have to continue until their 18th birthday unless they have a job but they do not necessarily have to continue their education at school. Schools have a duty to ensure that pupils are aware of all the opportunities available to them, other than A-levels, post-16 and that they are able to continue their education through full time study at school or FE college or through traineeships, apprenticeships, supported internships or a combination of work or volunteering and part time accredited training.

For more information go to: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/careers-guidance-advice-for-schools

Pedro Ribeiro Simões/Flickr.com/CC BY 2.0

NEW THINKING ON INSPIRATIONAL CAREERS GUIDANCE IN SCHOOLS

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he Victoria and Albert Museum in London is home to the first exhibition which explores objects of art and design from around the world, created specifically to be used as thought-provoking and often humorously subversive tools of social change, by demonstrators and political activists from many different countries. The exhibition includes objects such as Chilean folk art textiles which document political violence; a graffiti-writing robot; defaced bank notes; giant, inflatable cobblestones thrown during demonstrations in

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Barcelona and a political video game about the making of mobile phones.

The Disobedient Objects exhibition demonstrates how political activism drives a wealth of design ingenuity. The exhibition showcases forms of making that defy standard definitions of art and design. The objects on display are mostly produced by non-professional makers, collectively and with limited resources as effective responses to complex situations.

Entry to this fascinating exhibition is free, no booking is required and it’s on now until 1st February 2015. For more info go to: www.vam.ac.uk/whatson/

LOOK OUT FOR GCSE AND A-LEVEL REFORMS!

A WORD FROM THE NEW SKILLS MINISTER…

ontent, delivery and assessment of both GCSE and A-level science are to be reformed – with changes to A-levels coming into place in 2015 and to GCSEs in 2016.

These changes have come about to ensure that young people have access to gaining qualifications which match those of the highest performing countries. GCSEs at present are seen as failing to challenge students sufficiently and even though the number of pupils gaining top grades has risen in the last decade, our performance in international tests has not.

The reforms to GCSEs include a change from modular back to linear assessment, which means a return to single examinations rather than continuous assessment in order to ensure that each subject is learned and understood as a whole.

The wider goal is to improve general scientific understanding and to increase the number of students opting to study science post-16 and pursue STEM related careers.

New content within GCSEs will include: the human genome, the life cycle and space physics together with greater mathematical challenge throughout.

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Alberto G./Flickr.com/CC BY 2.0

There will no longer be an option of Core Science at GCSE, with all students instead studying either dual or triple science.

A-level reforms are underway also and in addressing the feedback from universities regarding A-level students lacking skills (according to the Mind the Gap survey, 92 per cent of academics said that A-level students were ill-prepared for the rigours of studying science at degree level) Science A-levels will also become linear and will be assessed at the end of two years.

AS-levels will continue to exist, but will be a stand-alone qualification and will not count towards a full A-level.

It is hoped that these changes to science A-levels will strengthen and improve the breadth of investigative practical work undertaken by students.

oving On spoke to Nick Boles, Minister of State jointly for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Education, who said, “As the new Skills Minister, I have been struck by the breadth of exciting routes young people can now take into the world of work. Whether it’s through undertaking an apprenticeship or studying for a degree, there’s never been a better time for young people to get out there and explore what’s on offer as they begin their journey into the world of work.

“To give young people the best chance possible, the Government is strengthening the links between education and employment. We’re putting employers in the driving

seat when it comes to the design and delivery of apprenticeships and making sure young people get the best possible advice and support in order to equip them with the right skills for the careers they want to pursue.

“That’s why I’m delighted to support the Skills Show, which showcases hundreds of different careers in a wide range of sectors, to over 75,000 young people, educators, employers, parents.

“The Skills Show promotes and celebrates apprenticeships – a great option for young people to earn while they learn whilst working for some of this country’s top businesses. The show provides all-important information, advice and expertise for young people, their parents, educators and employers.”

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MANUFACTURING AND PRODUCTION

MAKING IT IN MANUFACTURING

Take a closer look at careers in manufacturing and production.

BY ALICE CATTLEY e live in a world which allows us to buy things astonishingly quickly. At the touch of a button we can turn a collection of pixels on a screen into an item we can hold in our hands the very next day. Online consumerism means money doesn’t actually, physically change hands these days. Twenty years ago, this would have seemed like sci-fi rather than business and it’s easy to lose sight of where the things we use every day actually come from and how they’re made.

The manufacturing and production industry is one of the most vital sectors out there where everything from food and furniture to pharmaceutical supplies can be produced in large quanities in factories.

If you have decided to look for work instead of going to university, the good news is that you don’t necessarily need academic qualifications to work on the factory floor – just a logical, handson attitude. Although the term manufacturing literally means ‘to make by hand’, most of the physical work is now done by machines which can easily make standardised items. As a result, people are in demand to monitor, program and maintain the equipment. Apprenticeships (which you can do instead of sixth form or university) are a brilliant way of gaining these skills, because the salary – usually anything up to £13,000 – comes with a sense of satisfaction at creating professional products from a load of raw materials.

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Senior roles in the manufacturing and production industries by contrast, often do require a university degree. However, depending on the nature of the job, various types of degree can be accepted. A quality assurance manager, for example – the person who makes sure that every product leaving the factory is good enough to be sold – may have studied maths, life sciences or even business studies. Many universities offer degrees in Mechanical Engineering or Robotics and graduates in these subjects are likely to be in high demand in the manufacturing industry. They may find themselves developing exciting, new equipment or maintaining the robots (yes, really!) which are used to build the products.

Even in the current financial climate, the manufacturing and production sector is doing well. There will always be a demand for the objects we use on a daily basis and consequently there i will always be a demand for people to make sure that they are designed and made in the most efficient way possible. Whether you are interested in working on the factory floor, maintaining the machinery or ensuring that conditions are safe for your fellow employees, you will be contributing to an industry upon which society is hugely dependent. Without the manufacturing and production industries we wouldn’t be able to live and work as easily as we do and ask yourself this – how many of the things you use on a daily basis could you have made yourself? ■

“…IT’S EASY TO LOSE SIGHT OF WHERE THE THINGS WE USE EVERY DAY ACTUALLY COME FROM…”

For more info go to: www.allaboutcareers. com/articles/post/ manufacturingproduction/16-18overview.htm www.wetfeet.com/ articles/career-overviewmanufacturing-andproduction

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Why study with us? ➜ Become a Chartered Construction Manager ➜ Earn whilst you learn ➜ Excellent value for money student loans and bursaries are also available ➜ Highly respected within the sector ➜ Great student support

Courses accredited/recognised by: (CIOB re-accreditation in progress)

We are the leading online learning, Higher Education Institution for the Real Estate and Construction industries. Established in 1919, we have taught many thousands of surveyors, construction managers and senior figures within the industry.

With fees of under £4k a year (for our standard part-time route), our online degrees are an affordable option, also allowing you to work and study.

Our supported online learning courses prepare you for an exciting career full of scope and variety. From our Foundation Degree to our range of BSc Degrees, all are accredited or recognised by leading professional bodies, including The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).

Find out more email enquiries@cem.ac.uk call 0800 019 9697 explore www.cem.ac.uk

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HEART OF WORCESTERSHIRE COLLEGE

SATURDAY 11TH OCTOBER | 10AM-3PM WORCESTER CAMPUS (ST DUNSTAN’S BUILDING)

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MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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CONSTRUCTION

CONSTRUCT your future

There are many job opportunities in the construction industry for young people who excel in practical work, which also requires creativity and technical skills.

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BY LEYAN YUCEL lastering is one of the most well-known and skilled jobs in construction which involves covering walls and outdoor surfaces in plaster or other protective coatings, before they can be decorated. A bricklayer, another traditional job, follows an architect’s or builder’s plans and creates structures using bricks and mortar. Being a painter and decorator can involve anything from painting or wallpapering peoples’ homes or offices to applying finishes to much larger structures. A GCSE in Design and Technology or vocational qualifications such as a certificate or diploma in construction are helpful but not essential. The most popular way into this industry is going straight into employment with a business as an apprentice. This way you’ll learn and practise the skills you need as well as getting paid at the same time.

Some jobs in construction are not so well known. A form worker for example, builds the wooden frames for structures in buildings such as walls and lofts. They follow architectural plans and need maths skills to measure the structures. A post-secondary qualification, such as a certificate

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or diploma from a technical training school or an associated degree in carpentry is usually needed.

However, an alternative route into this job is to undertake a paid apprenticeship.

Chimney engineers refurbish chimneys, solve structural problems and assess the safety of new sources of heating. Computer aided design (CAD) is used to create the designs of chimneys so having experience of this plus an IT qualification would be useful. In this industry it is common to start as an engineer’s assistant before becoming a qualified engineer. The Specialist Apprenticeship Programme (SAP) provides training for basic chimney construction, health and safety and working at a height.

Another job to consider in the construction industry is being a tunnelling operative. They help to construct underground tunnelling infrastructures for rail lines and water works and they train to use machinery like large diameter, i tunnel-boring equipment.

Even with few qualifications, there are a huge variety of opportunities in this industry and there are numerous college courses and apprenticeships available. ■

Dry stone walling is an ancient craft which sets the boundaries between fields. Dry stone walls are a beautiful feature of the British countryside and the skills needed to repair and preserve these features are in great demand. As its name suggests, no cement is used to build dry stone walls and their strength comes from the interlocking method used to construct them.

The Environmental Conservation apprenticeship at level two or three allows you to choose a dry stone walling pathway. The apprenticeship includes a competence qualification in dry stone walling.

For more information go to: www.lantra.co.uk www.citb.co.uk

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POWER YOUR FUTURE AND BECOME PART OF THE UK’S ENERGY REVOLUTION WITH A CAREER IN ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION. The engineering construction industry can offer young, talented STEM students exciting careers in a variety of power and processing sectors, including; Nuclear, Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Renewables, Oil & Gas, and Food & Drink. This important industry facilitates our modern way of life and it needs at least 42,000 technicians, engineers and scientists over the next ten years to design, project manage, install, test, operate and maintain the large scale infrastructures used to power the UK and provide us with everyday essentials like electricity and clean water.

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The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) offers a range of apprenticeships to kick start your career in engineering construction. An ECITB apprenticeship is the best vocational route into the industry, providing both knowledge based learning with an ECITB approved training provider or college and practical experience with an industry employer, all whilst getting paid!

ECITB apprenticeships are available in 14 disciplines including; Design & Draughting, Electrical Maintenance, Instrumentation & Controls Maintenance, Electrical Installation, Mechanical Maintenance, Mechanical Fitting, Instrument Pipefitting (Small Bore Tubing), Non Destructive Testing, Plating, Pipefitting, Steel Erecting, Project Control, Welding and Moving Loads.

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ECITB sponsored welding apprentice Kurt Rodgers has been taking the welding world by storm and recently won gold at the UK WorldSkills Competition.

Doncaster born Kurt, is employed by global leaders in power generation, Alstom Power, he said: “My apprentice experience has been brilliant – I left school in year ten with not even one GCSE and now I’m in the second year of my apprenticeship and to top it off, I just won gold at WorldSkills!”

Barry Cramp, Alstom’s Apprentice Officer said “When Kurt came for his interview he didn’t have the GCSE grades he needed for the apprenticeship but he showed so much enthusiasm and passion that we decided to take a chance. He’s worked really hard to attain his Maths and English

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For more information about ECITB Apprenticeships or to apply online today visit www.ecitb.org.uk

Visit www.engineeringconstructioncareers.org.uk to find out more about careers opportunities in engineering construction.

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s a il & G levels and I’m proud to say that he’s now officially the top trainee welder in the UK.” The WorldSkills competitions bring together the hottest young talent to compete against each other in over 60 skills challenges and at only 19 years of age, Kurt demonstrated exceptional welding talent to beat his competitors.

“The competition was intense from start to finish,” said the gold winner, “The test pieces had different joint combinations and we had to demonstrate different welding processes including TIG, MMA and MAG. The tasks were really difficult and although some of the other competitors were older and more experienced than me, it shows what you can achieve when you put your mind to it.”

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A talent for welding clearly runs in the Rodgers family as Kurt explains: “My dad was a welder and although he never pressured me into following his footsteps, I knew it was what I wanted to do. I really love welding and being able to work on different sites with experienced welders is a great way to learn.

Kurt’s experience as an ECITB apprentice has proven to be more than just about education; he’s preparing for life in a real working environment, living with his peers, managing his income, and learning the lifelong skills needed for a successful welding career, in the engineering construction industry.

To find out more about an ECITB apprenticeship visit www.ecitb.org.uk

“ MY APPRENTICE EXPERIENCE HAS BEEN BRILLIANT – I LEFT SCHOOL IN YEAR TEN WITH NOT EVEN ONE GCSE AND NOW I’M IN THE SECOND YEAR OF MY APPRENTICESHIP AND TO TOP IT OFF, I JUST WON GOLD AT WORLDSKILLS! ” MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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There’s no better time to join Vision West Nottinghamshire College. We’re in the top 10% of colleges in the country*, and our £40 million redevelopment is nearing completion, meaning we now boast some of the best facilities in the region!

Our open events are a great opportunity to look around our specialist facilities, meet with tutors and hear about our huge range of post-16 options on offer, from entry-level to university-level.

Wednesday 15 October General open evening 6pm-8pm – Derby Road (NG18 5BH) Thursday 13 November General open evening 6pm-8pm – Derby Road (NG18 5BH) Wednesday 26 November A Level open evening 6pm-8pm – Derby Road (NG18 5BH) For more information: www.wnc.ac.uk 0808 100 3626 enquiries@wnc.ac.uk

An apprenticeship can be the first step towards a rewarding career, and offers a number of great benefits, including:

a weekly wage nationally-recognised qualifications real work experience with reputable local employers.

High-level vacancies available now in engineering, IT and professional studies, legal services and more!

*based on overall success rates.

/visionwestnotts

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@westnotts

www.visionapprentices.co.uk info@visionapprentices.co.uk 0800 121 8317

SKILLED TRADES

Painter and decorator, electrician, welder… why not consider a job in the skilled trades?

BY SUMMER SHUTTLEWOOD o become a painter and decorator, the best way to make a start is to do a Level 1, Painting and Decorating Diploma at your local FE college and then take a level 2 course to further your skills and increase your chances of employment. There is also a Level 3 Diploma available, once you have worked in the industry, which will increase your skills and knowledge further. City and Guilds, as well as many other companies, also offer apprenticeships which mean you get experience in the industry whilst being paid to learn your trade.

For a job such as welding, which is a trade needed in many industries including engineering, transport, aerospace and offshore oil and gas, one option would be to take a course at college before applying for a job as a trainee welder.

Relevant courses include: • Level 1 Award in Introductory Welding Skills • Level 2/3 Certificate in Fabrication and Welding Practice • Level 2 Certificate in Welding Skills Alternatively, you could do a welding apprenticeship. It is useful to have good maths skills for working out measurements and good hand-to-eye coordination. To get on an apprenticeship course you would usually need four GCSEs (grades A*-C), in subjects like maths, engineering, ICT, English or science.

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After achieving these qualifications you would be able to train in the workforce as a welder and learn necessary skills such as reading technical drawings; whilst doing this you can apply for work based qualifications such as a Level 3 (NVQ) Diploma in Fabrication and Welding Engineering, before completing tests to make sure that you are up to British and European welding standards. Other jobs such as a plasterer or electrician follow similar routes for their respective trades.

As an electrician, you would install, inspect and test equipment, make sure that electrotechnical systems work and find and fix faults. There is a wide variety of jobs which fall within an electrician’s field. To qualify, you would need to complete a level 3 qualification such as Level 3 Diploma in Electrotechnical i Services (Electrical Maintenance) or a Level 3 Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems & Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment). In order to complete these – usually whilst working – you would need to complete a level 1 and 2 course full or part time at a college. These courses can help you to land an apprenticeship, get a higher education qualification or get a job as a trainee. First year apprentices are expected to make around £8,000 a year and the starting salary is £17,000+. ■

“WELDING IS A TRADE NEEDED IN MANY INDUSTRIES INCLUDING ENGINEERING, TRANSPORT, AEROSPACE AND OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS.”

Apprenticeships are widely available throughout the UK; check out www. apprenticeships.org.uk to find vacancies in your area. For further info on qualifications, go to: www.cityandguilds.com and www.citb.co.uk.

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Undergraduate Open Day Secure your future

Saturday 18 October Chelmsford and Cambridge campuses

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For further information and to register Visit: anglia.ac.uk/discover Email: answers@anglia.ac.uk Call: 01245 68 68 68 @angliaruskin facebook.com/angliaruskin

OPEN DAYS

OPEN DAYS VIEWING ESSENTIAL Make the most of visiting universities on their Open Days — you’ll be really glad you did when it comes to making your final choice…

BY ERICA BARNES ll universities hold Open Days, where you get to meet staff and students, view the campus and check out the accommodation. Open Days are organised to give you a really good chance to get a feel for the place where you might be spending three or four years of your life.

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Go, go, go!

It is absolutely vital that you visit your shortlist of universities before making your final choices – ideally you should go to see about four or five. Open Days are usually held at weekends or during school holidays, although some may be held during the week. The dates and times can be found on university websites. If you can’t make an Open Day, don’t miss out – contact the university and ask for a private visit and a tour of the campus. They are usually more than happy to arrange a private visit for you.

Be prepared Many universities require you to register for Open Days so make sure you do this well in advance.

It’s best to go with a family member or friend but remember that you’re the one going to university so it’s important that you take charge, do your homework and ask all the questions yourself.

Costs Ask university staff about any financial help

they may offer to lure in potential students, like scholarships or bursaries – you’ll be surprised at how many there are and if you don’t ask you don’t get! Talk to a student representative and ask them about how they managed their money in their first year at university.

Accommodation Find out about living arrangements and accommodation – most universities provide tours of their halls of residence. Ask the staff about the pros and cons of living in a shared, rented house or whether it is better from a social point of view to live in halls in your first year. Ask about the availability of rooms in halls – they get snapped up quickly – and find out when you can move in and out and whether you’ll need insurance for your stuff.

Decisions, decisions…

At the end of every Open Day, ask yourself this – would I feel comfortable spending the next few years here? Is the degree course here really the right one for me? Only you can decide where and what you study and unless you make the ! effort to visit the universities you think you’d like to go to, you could end up making a big mistake and regretting your choice. It’s possible that a university which seems perfect on paper could turn out to be the exact opposite when you actually turn up to visit it. ■

“…UNLESS YOU MAKE THE EFFORT TO VISIT THE UNIVERSITIES YOU THINK YOU’D LIKE TO GO TO, YOU COULD END UP MAKING A BIG MISTAKE…”

TOP TIPS: Take notes, don’t stick to the tour provided and ask questions that make you memorable — in a good way!

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Great Career Prospects

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Do you want to be creative everyday?

Own your own business or travel the world?

Hairdressing could be the perfect career for you!

Spaces available on our Full Time Hairdressing Courses and Apprenticeship programmes!

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• Established for over 45 Years • Winners of the Training Award at the British Hairdressing Business Awards 2014 • Five Academies of Excellence • State-of-the-Art Facilities • Inspirational Training for all Learners

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STUDENT FINANCE

Money matters Want to study but worried about finances? There are solutions out there... or many young people the prospect of going to university and racking up huge debts is enough to put them off getting a degree. A sponsored degree may provide the ideal solution for some.

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Sponsored degree programmes More and more companies in the UK are offering sponsored degrees. The company ends up with an experienced graduate and the student earns a wage and ends up with a degree with no debts to pay back. Sponsored degrees combine work with study, much as an apprenticeship does, so it might involve working for four days a week and study at the university that the employer is partnered with for the other day.

Sponsored degrees are offered by a wide variety of companies from Barclays to Harrods and cover many different career paths from accounting to sales. For example CGI (www. careers.cgi-group.co.uk) offer a sponsored degree in business management, which is studied for one day a week. The other four days are spent at work. They offer a salary of around £13,000 on top of paying tuition fees and the student is a full employee of CGI with benefits like annual leave.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries

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The terms are often used interchangeably, although scholarships, grants and bursaries differ slightly. They all however provide non-repayable financial support to learners.

A grant will normally be given based on personal circumstance or financial need and a bursary will be based on financial need only. Both are intended to provide better access to education for all.

A scholarship is financial support given based on achievement of some kind. This could be academic achievement or it could be musical or sporting.

Some universities offer scholarships for example to students with excellent sporting achievement in return for them representing the university at sporting events. Equally if a student has outstanding musical achievement the university may offer i a scholarship in return for them performing at events. Scholarships range from £500 to £10,000.

If you are applying for a scholarship you need to make your application relevant, so if you’re applying for a sporting scholarship, your sporting achievements need to be highlighted. Likewise, if you’re applying for financial support based on the fact that you are the first in your family to go to university this needs to be emphasised on the application form or in a covering letter. ■

Getting a Professional and Career Development Loan (PCDL) of between £300 and £10,000, is another way to pay for courses which would enhance your skills and job prospects. To see if you’re eligible and how to apply, go to: www.gov.uk/careerdevelopment-loans/ overview

For more information visit individual university websites and / or go to www.thescholarshiphub. org.uk www.notgoingtouni. co.uk www.careerpilot.org.uk

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MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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POWER AND ENERGY

There are more jobs to be filled in the power industry as the demand for alternative, renewable energy sources increases…

BY EMILY FROST e live in a time where there is a greater need than ever to find ways of preserving our planet.

Because of this, there is a need to continue the development of environmentally friendly methods of producing power. The UK Government has put targets in place to ensure that this happens in the near future – their aim is to have 15 per cent of the country’s power running off renewable sources by 2020.

It’s estimated that 35,000 new employees will be needed by 2024 because of these new targets and that high-quality education in these fields will increase by 80 per cent. The power industry needs new, creative minds to come up with better solutions to energy problems and to help the country make a positive move towards the UK becoming a renewable energy fuelled society.

The range of jobs in the sustainable energy sector is vast. By 2020, it is estimated that every home in the UK will be fitted with smart gas and electricity meters which will need to be fitted by trained installers. Alternatively, you could develop new designs for the next generation of wind turbines or work as a wind turbine installer. There are jobs in a range of areas, such as construction, design, operation and maintenance which are based on-site, in offices or in laboratories.

Apprenticeship providers and universities look for people who have studied STEM

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subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) as they provide the basis for further training, but they are not essential.

Companies offer a vast array of apprenticeships to people aged 16 upwards, including in wind turbine operation and maintenance.

These apprenticeships often have a minimum entry requirement of four GCSEs at grade C. Apprenticeships take three to four years to complete and allow you to gain an NVQ qualification which is a widely recognised certificate in the power industry, whilst earning a wage.

There are quite a few universities offering renewable energy-related degrees. These courses can be highly specific, such as a MEng Energy Engineering degree. Alternatively, you could study a broader subject like geography and then specialise in studying renewable energy as you work through the degree. These degrees take between three to five years to complete and many may offer you a year i out to gain work experience in industry, in the UK, or abroad.

The renewable energy sector is opening up a wealth of opportunity for those looking to pursue a career in the power industry but more specifically, in an area that is providing people with the chance to use their own innovation and initiative and to help shape how the power industry of the future will develop. ■

“IT’S ESTIMATED THAT 35,000 NEW EMPLOYEES WILL BE NEEDED BY 2024.”

Want to find out more?

Go to: www.renewableuk.com/ en/careers/ www.thinkpowersector. co.uk

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Stills from The Guest courtesy of Adam David Productions

INTERVIEW

Just in time for Halloween, Moving On c scream-queen, Maika Monroe, when she

Maika Monroe as Anna Peterson in left-field horror flick The Guest, distributed by Icon Fims.

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“IT’S EXCITING TO BRING A CHARACTER TO LIFE, NO MATTER WHAT GENRE.”

aika’s first acting role was in the horror film Bad Blood in 2006. Her excellent performance in recently released thriller The Guest sees her playing the grieving sister of a fallen soldier sharing the family home with a mysterious stranger claiming to be the friend of her dead brother. She has just started filming for her latest role in the upcoming film adaptation of the young adult book, The 5th Wave, about an alien invasion, in which she plays a character called Ringer, opposite Chloe Moretz of Kick-Ass fame.

We asked her about her career so far.

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When you were younger did you always want to be an actor?

When I was in elementary school I always loved school plays but I think my real interest was sparked when I was thirteen and on the set of an actual movie. It was a horror film, so I got to see how they did all the special effects. I loved every aspect of the film. I was supposed to be a background line dancer for one scene but I ended up going to the set every day because I was so intrigued with the process. I worked with the makeup artists, special effects, the director and the producer. They were all super-nice to me and they ended up writing a one-line speaking part for me in the film! So, since I was thirteen, yes, I have known that I wanted to be an actor.

And I loved it! Even the internet was sketchy! I finished my high school studies online and my mom made me take Spanish classes as a condition of us moving there. So every morning I would take a scooter to my Spanish class and train all afternoon on the water. At night I would do my online studies.

You’re very busy, designing clothes, modelling, starring in movies and kiteboarding – how do you juggle all these things?

Well I started off doing all those things! Now most of my time is spent on set but I kiteboard whenever I have time off filming. I think it’s very important that you have other hobbies and interests that you enjoy. Kiteboarding keeps me grounded. Hollywood is a crazy-fast lifestyle but when I‘m on the water I leave that world behind…

It’s all happening pretty quickly for you right now. How do you see your career progressing in the future – would you like to try stage or TV work, for example?

I love movies – that’s where my heart is but I also like exploring new things so we’ll see!

caught up with a rising star of scary movies, the e visited the horror film festival FrightFest.

You completed your studies online while you did your kiteboard training. How did you find that experience?

I moved to the Dominican Republic with my mom in the last semester of my senior year in high school, to train for competing in kiteboarding. It was hard because my dad stayed in Santa Barbara.

I needed to train in a place that was windy almost every day and the little town of Cabarete was perfect. In retrospect, I think it was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. I didn’t have a cell phone, no car, so all the technology that is such a big part of our lives, I just did not have.

Is there a particular director you would like to work with in the future?

One particular director? Ha! There are so many I’d like to work with! Wes Anderson, Kathryn Bigelow, Terrence Malick, Woody Allen…

Can you tell us a bit about your character, Ringer, in the upcoming movie, The 5th Wave?

I’m a badass! Really good with guns! Read the book….! (The 5th Wave, by Rick Yancey) Is a career as an actor everything you thought it would be?

I love acting and I truly feel like it is what I was put on earth to do. I am always pinching myself to make sure this isn’t a dream!

What is your all-time favourite, cosy-night-in movie?

Right now, I’m binge-watching The Killing TV series. It’s just so good! ■ MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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CARE

CARE & SHARE

Working with the elderly can be challenging but amazingly rewarding. Think you’ve got what it takes?

BY LOUIS ASHWORTH obs relating to working with elderly people range from visiting care worker to geriatric nurse. Working with older people can be tough and requires incredible patience and empathy.

Enabling an elderly person to live comfortably and happily can make a huge difference to their life and a visit from a care-giver can be the highlight of their day. In return, care workers benefit from elderly peoples’ unique perspective on life when they freely share their wisdom and fascinating life stories. Being a good carer will give you great pleasure and job sasisfaction.

As far as job security goes, care workers are always in high demand. Whilst nursing requires completion of a degree and formal qualifications, working as a care assistant usually doesn’t require educational qualifications. If you are interested in working with the elderly and would like to see if it’s the job for you, there are lots of opportunities for volunteers. The care sector relies on the help of voluntary workers – some of whom do care work alongside their main job.

Contact care homes in your area to find out more about opportunities to volunteer.

As a care assistant you’ll earn around £12,000 a year and work standard hours (3740 a week) but be prepared to work some unsociable shifts, i.e. nights and weekends.

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Responsibilities include forming relationships with clients to gain knowledge of their needs, assisting them with daily, personal care like washing and eating, helping with ? medication management and organising leisure activities for individuals or groups.

Caring for elderly people offers strong opportunities to develop your personal skills, like doing first aid, food hygiene and customer relations courses and training programmes. Many of the skills you’ll learn are transferrable which is always very appealing to future employers.

Carers can also gain qualifications whilst working, such as the Diploma in Health and Social Care or Awareness of Dementia.

If you start as a care assistant, you can progress in your career towards becoming a team leader or a care home manager. Through working i with the elderly, you’ll be able to offer personcentred support and will gain a thorough understanding of the principles of safeguarding and extensive knowledge of the role of health care workers and the important job they do.

Nurses who specialise in working with elderly people do a vital job that is both challenging and fulfilling. Catering to the needs of the elderly can be complicated, but the relationships forged between patient and client can be enormously satisfying.

“Some of the residents won’t have frequent visits from family members or friends and you can sense they’re lonely. Conversing with them regularly lets them know that you care.” Kayleigh Barrett, who works with the elderly and those with dementia.

For more information go to: www.skillsforcare. org.uk/Care-careers/ Starting-a-career-insocial-care/ www.nursingtimes. net/nursing-practice/ specialisms/olderpeople/

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEER TRAINING? The Alzheimer’s Trust says that it welcomes young people (18 years and under) as volunteers in many roles within its organisation, but they are always supervised by an experienced adult and will need to have been given parental consent, as is the case with most other charitable and voluntary organisations.

If you would like to get involved, many agerelated charities like Age Concern and Age UK, as well as care homes and hospitals, run training schemes for volunteers who work with the elderly and dementia sufferers. These volunteers are often known as memory volunteers, or ‘Memory Minders’, in the case of some of the volunteers at Blackpool’s Victoria Hospital.

Memory Minders are part of the hospital’s volunteer force, who have been specially trained to lead dementia patients through a ‘memory corridor’ – a specially designed sensory experience divided into seven sections, i featuring enlarged photographic images on the walls as well as sounds and smells which trigger the patient’s memory and help to relax them.

“The corridor allows us to take patients off the wards and enhance their patient experience with a stroll down memory lane. It makes them relax and gives us the chance to talk to them, build a rapport and a level of trust which will help us later with their care.” said the hospital’s nursing sister, Sam Woodhouse. ■

If you’re interested in getting involved with this kind of volunteering, for more information go to: www.ageuk.org. uk/get-involved/ volunteer/ www.alzheimers.org.uk

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how

do

they get the

bubbles in a

ENGINEERING, THAT’S HOW Believe it or not, the bubbles in chocolate bars are created by mechanical engineers.

chocolate bar?

How they do it exactly is a top trade secret, but generally they have to work out how to mix gases found naturally in the air into the chocolate bar under high pressure. Once the mixture is dropped into the moulds, the bubbles grow and the chocolate sets to become the bars we all love.

Meet the employers and academics behind the degree at Sheffield Hallam University’s open days. www.shu.ac.uk/open

If this sounds intriguing and you love maths and science, then the MEng Food Engineering degree at Sheffield Hallam University could be for you.

With the MEng Food Engineering degree, you will be well on your way to a fantastic career with one of the UK’s best-loved food and drink brands.

Just some of the many fantastic brands supporting the course include the makers of Kit Kat, Jammy Dodgers, Lurpak, Pepsi, Jordan’s breakfast cereals, Mars Chocolate, Hula Hoops, Jaffa cakes and Coca-Cola.

This exciting course started in September 2014 and has been designed by top engineers at some of the UK’s most well-known food and drink companies.

Students on the course will get:

RY A S R U B !

E L B A L AVAI

1. The chance to work with some of the UK’s, and the world’s, greatest food and drink companies including: Burton’s Biscuit Company, Coca-Cola Enterprises, Premier Foods, Mars, McCain Foods, Mondelez International, Nestlé UK, PepsiCo UK, Pork Farms, and Warburtons.

For the full list go to www.foodengineer.co.uk 2. Guaranteed, competitively-paid work placements whilst you study - the equivalent of up to £17,000 pro-rata

3. Access to the UK’s first national Centre of Excellence for Food and Drink Engineering, providing the opportunity to participate in advanced level research in real life studies and exposure to cutting edge technology 4 .The opportunity to apply for jobs exclusively on offer to course graduates (subject to final grades, references and employer recruitment processes)

5. Sought after specialist skills and expertise in mechanical, electrical and process engineering, manufacturing and much more 6. A fast-track engineering career, graduating at master’s level and working towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, in the UK’s largest manufacturing sector

Have we whetted your appetite?

If so, sign-up for details at www.foodengineer.co.uk Follow us on: #FoodEngineering www.facebook.com/UKFoodEngineer ukfoodengineer.tumblr.com/ 28

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Co-investment from

Employer Investment Fund

FOOD AND DRINK

! ! ! y t s Well t a Ever wondered how a Spanish orange ends up in your fruit bowl or how food manufacturers manage to make every pizza taste as good as the last? Check out careers in the food and drink manufacturing industry.

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BY EMILY FROST he Food and Drink Federation (FDF) and the Government aim to have increased employment by 20 per cent in the sustainable food and drink industry, by 2020. The influx of new employees required to meet this target will benefit the FDF and the Government as well as employers. Even during the recent economic downturn, the food and drink industry has continued to grow and supports approximately 400,000 people across the UK. So how can you become involved? The FDF employs people at all levels, from school leavers with GCSEs to postgraduate students. This September, Sheffield Hallam University are starting a MEng Food Engineering degree in association with the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink and the FDF – it will be the UK’s first accredited engineering degree which is solely focused on the needs of the food and drink manufacturing industry.

There are many other universities aside from Sheffield Hallam which offer degrees in subjects such as Food Science and Food Technology.

The entry requirements for these courses can range from 200 UCAS tariff points upwards,

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depending on the specific course, the university and whether it’s a three or four year degree.

Apprenticeships in the food and drink sector are undergoing significant changes as well – in 2013 it was confirmed that food and drink manufacturing was one of eight sectors to lead apprenticeship reform by developing new training standards for food and drink manufacturing engineers. Apprenticeships can range from specialising in bakery and confectionery to food logistics. By the end of the apprenticeship you will have gained NVQ qualifications and had practical experience in a working environment, in turn preparing you for a career in the food and drink industry.

So what will these qualifications do for you in the long run? If you’re doing an apprenticeship then it is likely you’ll be earning while you learn – an apprentice can be earning anywhere from approximately £170 to £230 a week i depending on the course and company you’re working with. But looking to the future, both qualifications will allow you to enter careers in the food and drink industry, including being a food scientist or technologist, a retail butcher, marketing manager or technical brewer. ■

Here are a few more jobs within this sector which may whet your appetite!

Procurement officer – buys in goods for pubs, restaurants and hotels.

Food scientist/ technologist – analyses the chemical, physical and nutritional aspects of food production including storage and preservation.

Manufacturing systems engineer – designs and develops equipment used in the food industry such as assembly lines and factories.

Marketing manager – promotes food and drink products and services.

Hungry for more information? Go to: www.improveltd.co.uk www.foodanddrink. nsacademy.co.uk

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AUTOMOTIVE

Fancy making or mending cars for a living? Opt for a job in the motor manufacturing industry.

BY MELISSA SNOW Automotive engineer

Auto electrician

If you’re interested in the initial design and development of vehicles, automotive engineering could be for you. Automotive engineers design, develop, test and build various vehicles. You’ll need excellent maths and IT skills and the ability to work in a team. You’ll work on engine and electrical systems, thermodynamics, aerodynamics, fuel technology and much more.

To become an automotive engineer, you’ll need a qualification such as a Foundation Degree or a Higher National Diploma or Certificate in a relevant subject such as mechanical, electrical, design or automotive engineering.

Auto electricians fit and repair electrical and electronic systems. As auto technology becomes more advanced to match the development of vehicles, the demand for auto electricians is increasing. Main tasks include taking engine readings, testing wiring and repairing faults, so good problem-solving skills are needed.

To do an apprenticeship, you’ll normally need four GCSEs, grade A* – C. You could also complete a college course in vehicle repair. Some favoured courses are Level 1 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Vehicle Systems Maintenance, Level 1 Certificate in Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Level 1 Award/ Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies.

Motor vehicle technician If you love cars and fixing things, this could be the career for you. As a motor vehicle technician you’ll repair and service various vehicles and mend engines, exhaust, air-conditioning and security systems. Strong problem-solving abilities and great customer service skills are essential.

The most common way to become a motor vehicle technician is through an apprenticeship in vehicle mechanics. To qualify, you may need GCSEs in maths, English and science. Alternatively, you could take an automotive course at a FE college. Relevant courses include a Level 1 Certificate or Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance, a Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Vehicle Technology and a Level 2 Certificate in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs.

“IF YOU LOVE CARS AND FIXING THINGS, THIS COULD BE THE CAREER FOR YOU.”

Motor vehicle fitter Motor vehicle fitters or fast-fit technicians, repair and replace worn car parts. They usually work in fast-fit centres or workshops, alongside vehicle technicians and they fix vehicles while customers wait. You’ll need good customer service skills and maths skills, to calculate costs.

People enter this career through completion i of a Vehicle Fitting apprenticeship. You’ll need GCSEs, including maths, English, science and IT. Another option is to check out college courses which will give you the necessary qualifications, such as Level 1 Certificate in Tyre Fitting Principles, Level 2 Certificate in Vehicle Component Fitting and Level 2 Certificate/ Diploma in Vehicle Technology. ■

For more information, go to: www.automotiveskills.org.uk/ www.apprenticeships. org.uk

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A world of opportunity awaits you at Aston University Aston has been a leading university for graduate employment success for over 25 years. The University is currently ranked 8th overall for graduate employment putting even the likes of Oxford in the shade (2013 Sunday Times University Guide).

The University is consistently ranked in the UK's top 40 universities conďŹ rming our place amongst the elite.

Here at the School of Engineering & Applied Science, our focus is on the inter-disciplinary nature of engineering and applied sciences, the key technologies and their interactions.

Leading-edge Engineering and Applied Science education since 1895 Proven job prospects for our graduates

High quality research across all subject areas which is fully integrated into teaching

A wide range of courses at Undergraduate, Postgraduate taught and Research levels

MEng, BEng and BSc courses relevant to employers through professional accreditation and strong links with industry Excellent paid professional placement opportunities across all undergraduate degree courses

One of a handful of universities chosen to be a member of the Defence Technology Undergraduate Scheme (DTUS

New and innovative courses to prepare students for a rapidly changing workplace

A dedicated one-stop-shop support centre for all students

www.aston.ac.uk 32

MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

tele: +44 0121 204 3400

IT AND ENGINEERING

Experts are planning a huge expansion in the UK robotics industry – could this multi-faceted and dynamic world be for you?

BY LOUIS ASHWORTH

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Robotics engineer A robotics engineer undertakes a wide range of tasks which vary from using software and mechanical and electric equipment to design and produce robots, to constructing robotic units, installing software and conducting failure analysis testing. Engineers may find themselves using lots of different equipment and tackling challenging tasks in both theoretical and practical roles in the robotics industry.

Robot service engineer Usually taught as an apprenticeship requiring GCSEs and a BTEC in electronics, or an engineering related A-level, Service engineers are responsible for installing robots, as well as maintaining and repairing them.

Product consultant / demonstrator As robotics companies seek to expand their clientele, they need people who can advise on models and demonstrate the role that robots can play. This can include sales pitching, education and presentation. The qualifications required by different companies may vary but confidence in public speaking and an eagerness to travel are both very advantageous.

Research assistant This job is ideal for people with A-levels or Higher Education Certificates and above. Robotic research assistants work with the task of developing and designing robots. Jobs might include researching solutions for producing robotic sensors, vision systems, control systems and artificial intelligence. A large amount of research into robotics takes place at universities and assistants can find themselves operating on the cutting edge of modern technology.

Interested? Here’s what you can do…

If you want to study robotics at university, many subjects are relevant to the topic and it is a feature of several degree courses. As well as pure robotics, degrees in electronic engineering, computer science and mechanical engineering are all highly relevant to the field.

If you are looking for work in this area i right now, your best option is to research via IT careers websites where you’ll find listings for robotics sector jobs. Keep a close eye on new opportunities – it is a rapidly developing field and new companies who need bright new employees are popping up all the time. ■

Illustration by Simon Hayes

rom Wall-E to The Terminator, robots have captured the imagination of our society, and made people think more than ever about the role these electronic and mechanical agents could play in our lives. Robots are already utilised in construction, on vehicle production lines, in hospitals, as military spy planes, bomb dispo sal units and even as vacuum cleaners but their role is set to grow massively in the near future.

Industry experts are predicting new expansion in the sector and plans have been made to propel the use of robotics in UK businesses to a level which rivals even that of Japan.

Robotics spans a huge range of topics, and there are many careers which cater to numerous subjects and qualifications. If you study electronics, mechanics, software engineering, mathematics, physics, chemistry, psychology or biology, you could go on to specialise in robotics and make a career out of it. If you want to work directly with robots, there are many options you can consider.

For more information go to: www.razorrobotics. com/careers-andeducation/

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WHO COULD YOU BE TOMORROW? #OPENDOORS

Making the first step towards your career can be intimidating. It’s even worse if you’re like I was at 16, clueless about what I wanted to do with my life and what my options were. The careers advice I received was far from helpful and I was told that completing my A-Levels and then going to university was the only way to be successful.

Unless you know about other routes, why would you question that university is the best path?

Luckily, I found out about apprenticeships and my outlook changed completely. I realised that everyone has different ways of learning, thinking and working. A one-size-fits-all approach to education doesn’t work. Instead, people need to be encouraged to choose the route that works best for them. That’s why I set up a programme called Apprentice Connect after I finished my apprenticeship at City & Guilds. Through it I get to go into schools with a number of other apprentices and tell people about our experiences. It’s a great opportunity for young people to find out more about what apprenticeships can offer.

“

Everyone has different ways of learning, thinking and working.

Another thing I would definitely recommend is The Skills Show, which is the UK’s largest skills and careers event. It takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from 13 to 15 November. There’s no way to describe it other than a massive showcase of further education, skills and apprenticeships.

You’ll have the chance to explore dozens of career possibilities and see some inspirational young people competing to win ‘gold’ in their chosen skill.

Also, you might just find your dream career.

You’ll also be able to get stuck right in to new skills.

Why not have a go at landscape gardening, hair and

beauty or even forensic science? You never know; you could discover a new skill or talent that you didn’t know you had.

There’s certainly a lot to see and do there. I may be biased, but one thing I would definitely recommend is visiting the City & Guilds’ stand. You’ll be able to have a chat with lots of different employers who will be able to provide you with really useful information about what they are looking for in new recruits. That inside knowledge could help you understand how to land the job you want.

You’ll also be able to talk to a variety of apprentices on the stand from all different industries. After all, it’s much more interesting to find out about the opportunities that apprenticeships can offer from someone who has been in your same position.

Last year at the show we had apprentices from employers like Google, the NHS and Microsoft.

Young people deserve to know their options. It isn’t easy to decide on your future but finding out your choices and exploring all of your options can go a long way to help. So why not visit in November?

You’ve got nothing to lose and potentially a whole new future to gain.

Tiana Locker, Former Apprentice and Youth Engagement Officer at City & Guilds.

“

Visit us at OPENDOORS.CITYANDGUILDS.COM for more information

2014-15 Open Events

Birmingham Metropolitan College Wednesday 8 October 2014

5pm-8pm

Saturday 8 November 2014

10am-1pm

Tuesday 9 December 2014

5pm-8pm

Study at: Matthew Boulton, Sutton Coldfield or James Watt

w: bmetc.ac.uk/birmingham t: 0845 155 0101 34

MOVING ON SEPT/OCT RIGHT FOR THE2014JOB AHEAD

RIGHT

QUALIFICATIONS

Q U A L I F I C AT I Oexplained.

NS .

Wondering what to do after school? There are loads of qualifications to choose from which can lead you straight to your dream job!

BY MELISSA SNOW GCSEs GCSEs are usually (but do not have to be) studied full time at school or college and take two years to complete. They are highly valued by schools, colleges and employers and the broad range of subjects you can take are a great way to prepare for the world of work, further study or apprenticeships. GCSEs are subject-specific and available in more than 40 subjects which means there are loads to choose from. You are assessed through both exams and coursework.

A-levels A-levels are studied full time over two years and ? generally you will be expected to choose four AS-levels in your first year, dropping to three subjects at A2. The combination of subjects you choose is very important. You want your subjects to support your university application and also to help develop a range of skills.

If you are heading for a future in science, it might be beneficial to combine chemistry, biology and maths with a humanities subject, such as history, which will develop your skills in extended writing. Facilitating subjects are frequently required for entry to degree courses. If you really don’t know what you want to study at university, including two facilitating subjects in your combination will stand you in good stead.

Facilitating subjects at A-level include: maths, further maths, physics, biology, chemistry, history, geography, modern and classical languages and English literature.

BTECs

NVQs

BTECs are a practical approach to learning, combining theory and practical work. If you’re not keen on taking exams, a BTEC could be for you. There are many different levels of BTEC from entry level which focuses on building initial skills, to development and professional development qualifications (levels 4-8). BTECs generally take one or two years to complete and can be studied part time or full time.

NVQs arm you with practical, work-related tasks to develop your skills and knowledge. Taking an NVQ could be appropriate if you want to improve your already existing skills or if you’re starting from scratch. They can be taken if you’re employed, studying at college and have a part time job or have access to a work placement. NVQs generally take one year to complete at levels 1 and 2 and two years at level 3.

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“IF YOU’RE NOT KEEN ON TAKING EXAMS, A BTEC COULD BE FOR YOU.”

Higher National Diploma A Higher National Diploma (HND) is another popular choice of qualification, which again focuses on ‘learning by doing’. A HND takes two years of full time study and if high grades are achieved you can go into the third year of a degree. HNDs are available in a wide variety of subjects, such as engineering, performing arts or retail.

Certificate of Higher Education A Certificate of Higher Education (CHE) focuses on academic learning and requires a year of full time study. A CHE is equivalent to the first year of an Honours Degree and is the most basic higher education qualification. This qualification can be used to gain confidence, change or progress through a career or to achieve a further qualification with additional study. CHEs are available in a wide range of subjects, such as agriculture, construction and sport.

Diploma of Higher Education A Diploma of Higher Education (DHE) focuses on ‘learning by doing’. It requires two years of full time study and is equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. Courses can be academic, but they are often linked to a particular profession, such as nursing or social work. A DHE can sometimes make you eligible for entry into the third year of a related degree course.

Foundation Degrees Another popular choice is a Foundation Degree, which is equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. You can study either full time or part time, depending on what suits you. They consist of academic study plus work-based learning with a relevant employer. For example, if you want to study IT or computing, you could then go and work for a relevant IT company at the same time.

When you’ve finished, you could progress onto the final year of an Honours Degree.

Bachelors or Honours Degrees One option is a Bachelors or Honours Degree, which normally requires three years of full time study the most popular options being the Bachelor of Arts Degree (BA) and the Bachelor of Science Degree (BSc).To study at university, previous qualifications are required. The UCAS tariff works on points – previous qualifications, such as A-levels and BTEC qualifications give you points. Courses then require a certain number of points. Most courses work on a modular structure, so you can choose modules within your course. There’s also the option to combine courses or to study abroad. ■ MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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INTERVIEW

Thinking about studying art and design? It could lead you into a fascinating career as a gallery or museum curator.

BY MELISSA SNOW e spoke to curator, Lisa Beauchamp, who told us how she landed her picture-perfect job and about the work she does with precious paintings, sculpture and objects at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.

W

Tell us about your job and the day-to-day responsibilities you have.

I work with modern and contemporary art and I hold responsibility for all the art in my area. We have various collections, dating from the late 1800s to today. There are paintings, sculptures, photography, film and much more. I care for collections, set up exhibitions, install displays; attend conferences and many other things too.

How do you become a curator?

Curators have varied qualifications and people enter through different routes. Mine was very traditional. I studied art at school and completed an art foundation course. I became interested in art contextually (how art and design works in its intended environment) and I completed a degree at Manchester University. I then decided to focus on modern art and studied for a master’s degree in Visual Art, which was very intense. Luckily I received funding, so I was able to volunteer at local museums and art galleries alongside studying.

What do you wish you had known when you left school?

I wish I had known how much perseverance was needed! Job stability isn’t guaranteed and it’s been a difficult journey but I didn’t let it put me off.

What advice would you offer to someone considering becoming a curator in a gallery or museum?

Be prepared and don’t give up — I highly recommend volunteering at museums or art 38

MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

galleries whilst studying and immersing yourself in the art world as much as possible. Perseverance and positivity are always needed.

What is the hardest part of your job?

It’s challenging to balance my workload and to stay on top of everything. Curation is a very varied job so there’s always a lot to do.

Awareness of others is important, and having excellent communication skills is vital.

Lisa Beauchamp, curator of modern and contemporary art.

What is the best thing about your job?

Completing an exhibition is extremely rewarding; I like to think I’ve done the collection justice and it’s great to see others enjoying the exhibition.

Would you say that being a curator is a lifestyle choice, rather than a straight nine to five job?

I am lucky that I get to go on lots trips around the world and I love visiting other exhibitions. I seize every opportunity I possibly can. Running a gallery is indeed a lifestyle choice and everyone who works here is here because they love their job.

So, what does the future hold for you?

I would like to carry on in my post, working with more artists, publishing articles and travelling more - I aspire to gain a better understanding of international art. I love creating good exhibitions and I always have loads of ideas - I really don’t think that’s going to change anytime soon!” ■

Image courtesy of visitbirmingham.com

The Round Room at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

“EVERYONE WHO WORKS HERE IS HERE BECAUSE THEY LOVE THEIR JOB.” MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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ART AND DESIGN

The knowledge and skills you’ll gain by studying art could lead you into a wide variety of fulfilling jobs.

BY ERICA BARNES ook around you! Art and design is everywhere and there are plenty of career options to consider for those of you who are studying for a qualification in this field – art therapy, animation, design or photography, to name but a few.

L

Art therapist Art therapists are people who use art as a way of communicating with people who find it difficult to express their feelings verbally. Art therapists are generally used by the NHS, in the private health sector, the social services and the drug rehabilitation services, as well as in companies where therapy is useful.

To work as an art therapist within the NHS or the social services, you will need a postgraduate qualification. Art therapy training courses are at master’s level and are completed over two years full time or three years part time.

Animator Computer animation is another career option in the world of art. Animation can be in 2D or 3D, as well as in special effects and CGI. Animators can work in film and television as well as in the advertising industry and in the gaming industry.

Some universities offer courses in computer animation. Students on these courses will also need to study computer programming and graphic

design. Some art schools may offer animation courses. These tend to focus on the more creative, rather than the technical side of animation.

Designer The best thing about studying design is that it can be applied to a huge variety of things, including websites, interiors, cars, fashion, logos, shoes and textiles. The list of possibilities is endless!

Qualifications in art and design or fine art are essential to get into these careers but after that, qualifications tend to get more specialised. For example, a degree in fine art, interior decorating or the performing arts would be useful for a career in set design and logo designers would need a graphic design degree.

Photographer You can work as a freelance photographer or be employed by a company as an in-house photographer. Photographers work in a variety of areas – advertising, newspapers and fashion as well as other specialist fields such as nature or medical photography. You can study photography at i various levels – a degree, HND or a course run by an independent body. Some photographers are self-taught and become successful without formal qualifications but doing a course of some sort will at least give you some basic knowledge and will help you build up a network of contacts. ■

“THE BEST THING ABOUT STUDYING DESIGN IS THAT IT CAN BE APPLIED TO A HUGE VARIETY OF THINGS.” For more information go to: www.ccskills.org.uk www.creativeskillset. org

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FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING

BA N K ON IT Which career should you put your money on? Banking?

Insurance? Accountancy? Cash in on a job in the finance and accounting sector.

BY EMILY FROST here are currently two million people in the UK employed in the finance sector with about 34,000 businesses providing financial services. There are the private, public and commercial sector jobs which can include financing in small businesses or in larger set ups like the NHS or schools – or managing companies so that they meet financial targets.

Specific jobs in the industry include: chartered accountant, corporate investment banker, retail banker or insurance claims handler amongst many others. There is a range of qualifications you can take which will give you the opportunity to work towards a career in the financial services sector.

Universities offer a wide variety of degrees, many of which are accredited by accountancy institutes, which can offer you professional status. You could look at a degee specifically tailored to finance and accounting, such as Business Finance or Finance and Accounting.

Alternatively, you can combine it with other areas of interest, for example a degree in law with accounting and finance.

If you’re not entirely sure whether this is the path you want to pursue, you can always take a degree under which finance and accounting is

T

one of the modules that make up the course, like a Business Management degree for instance.

Universities will look for people with a minimum of five GCSEs at grade C and above, as well as A-levels, one of which should be mathematics. If you’re thinking about a career in finance and accounting you may want to choose your A-levels so that they are tailored to this objective by picking subjects such as statistics, economics or business studies.

There are also graduate jobs in a variety of companies across the UK including being an accounting technician, a financial adviser or retail banker which these degrees can lead on to. Many companies and particularly the high street banks, offer finance and accounting apprenticeships or sponsored degree programmes.

Both apprenticeships and sponsored degrees have an ‘earn while you learn’ advantage. The basic skills employers look for are the capacity to work with figures and statistics, attention to detail and accuracy, analytical skills, numeracy i skills and an interest in finance, so look for apprenticeships that cover these areas.

If you are not sure whether or not the finance and accounting industry is for you then you may want to think about doing either work experience or an insight day to help you decide. ■

“BOTH APPRENTICESHIPS AND SPONSORED DEGREES HAVE AN ‘EARN WHILE YOU LEARN’ ADVANTAGE.”

For more information and opportunities go to: www.directions.org.uk www.aat.org.uk/ qualifications

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As the cost of going to university rises, students have no choice but to think extremely carefully about their education and employment options — apprenticeships, work experience, gap years, further education and higher education all need careful consideration and as we know, every child has individual talents and needs and careers advice must be tailored accordingly.

The Moving On editorial team works closely with educational experts, including UCAS, the main Sector Skills Councils, the Student Loan Company and the National Apprenticeship Service, in order to arm our readership with up-to-date information on education and employment.

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GOOD TO KNOW

How to

get involved in

POLITICS

The UK Youth Parliament was founded by Andrew Rowe, who believed passionately that young people in the UK should be given a platform to voice their views on issues that matter to them. embers of Youth Parliament (MYPs) are elected annually in all regions of the UK. They meet with MPs, organise their own events and campaigns and are the voice of young people.

Any young person aged from 11 to 18, who is also a resident of the UK, has the right to stand for election as an MYP, and the right to vote for their own MYP. Being a MYP will develop your • communication skills • public speaking skills • knowledge of politics and current affairs • ability to look at an issue from someone else’s perspective • debating skills • teamwork skills • leadership skills • organisational skills • negotiating skills Kyle Simms, the MYP for Dudley, West Midlands said, “Being a UK MYP has allowed me to really open up in terms of confidence and self-esteem and this has meant I could achieve things I would never have even considered, such as speaking in the House of Commons last November. I have built strong connections with people nationwide and worked closely with them on national campaigns, allowing me to also network with important decision makers both nationally and locally, which is great.”

Make your Mark, the UK Youth Parliament’s annual ballot – the largest youth consultation of its kind in the UK – was launched in August 2014, giving young people a say in what issues will be debated by their MYPs in the House of Commons on November 14th this year.

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If you are eligible, you can vote in this ballot from now until October 10th. Chosen from elected MYPs’ manifestos and made up of the views of young people, the ten topics to be discussed are:

• • • • • • • • • •

Votes for 16 year-olds Fund our youth services, don’t cut them A curriculum to prepare us for life Mental health services should be improved with our help Work experience Bring back exam resits in maths and English in English schools Young people should be directly involved in making laws Everyone should be paid at least the living wage of £7.65 per hour (£8.80 in London) Give young people a voice in improving their communities i Euthanasia. ■

“YOUNG PEOPLE DESERVE AN ACTIVE RIGHT TO BE INVOLVED IN THE LEADERSHIP DECISIONS OF THE COUNTRY”

You can contact UK Youth Parliament by emailing : info@ ukyouthparliament. org.uk

Are you looking to find your way in the motor industry, or looking to lead those that do?

We specialise in providing the very best in qualifications and accreditations for the automotive sector, so visit our stand at the Skills Show for advice on quality training from IMI Awards.

Keep cool under pressure in our Pit Stop Speed Challenge to be in with a chance of winning a Samsung Galaxy tablet!

We’re easy to find, just look for us in Hall 3 by the Automotive Painting competition.

imiawards.org.uk MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014

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THREE EXCITING NEW COURSES FOR 2015 From the Department of Computing and Communication Technologies

Audio Engineering and Music Production BSc Want to be the person who makes it all happen?

This course opens up opportunities to work in areas such as music production, film and TV/video, gaming, sound effects, live music, AV and interactive audio.

Computing for Robotic Systems BSc (subject to validation)

Are you ready for the robot revolution?

This course develops your skills in computing and shows you how to integrate them into robotic systems development, focussing on the science behind real and virtual robots.

Digital Media Production BSc Could that be you behind the camera?

This course covers film, video and audio production, computer graphics and animation, and making interactive products for distribution via new media platforms.

Take a closer look: tde.bz/cct-mo 48

MOVING ON SEPT/OCT 2014