If you’ve got your GCSEs but don’t quite feel ready for the world of work, try a traineeship
GOT your GCSE results but don’t feel ready for work? Then try a traineeship.
The innovative “get work-ready” schemes were launched by the Government in 2013 to help 16-to-24-year-olds to prepare for an apprenticeship or employment.
The courses last from six weeks up to six months with content tailored to aid both the learner and the business.
As well as work skills, traineeship providers can also offer help on interview techniques, CV writing, how to dress for work and even additional support on basic qualifications.
New figures from the Department for Education show more than three quarters of those who complete a traineeship go on to start an apprenticeship, further study or get a job within 12 months, making them one of the most successful ways for unemployed young people to find work.
Education Minister Kemi Badenoch said: “Getting your A-level and GCSE results are a huge achievement and a major milestone in a young person’s life, so congratulations to everyone.
“It’s also a time when young people will be thinking about their futures and planning their next move.
“There are lots of exciting options out there to consider, but if you’ve not made up your mind yet, why not consider a traineeship? They are a great way to gain the skills, experience and confidence to kickstart your career.”
Traineeships are helping to create a more diverse workforce, as the scheme lets youngsters from challenging backgrounds access jobs and training opportunities.
To encourage more people to take this path, the Government is providing £20million through the Adult Education Budget for further education and training providers.
James Ashall of Movement To Work — a charity whose members provide traineeships — wants more firms to sign up for the scheme.
He says: “Companies across the UK are working with young people to inspire them, develop their ambition and help them achieve their potential.
“This is not a one-way street. When hiring young people post-traineeship or work experience, employers gain some of the most effective and loyal employees.”
Find your next step now at .
Tips for getting your first job
LEAVING school and finding your first job can be daunting.
To help, we’ve teamed up with Mark Rhodes, of recruiters Reed, to reveal what firms are looking for in “first jobbers”.
- Use any work experience you have to your advantage: whether it’s coaching the local football team or running your own seller profile on eBay. Highlight skills relevant to the role you’re applying for.
- Tailor your CV and cover letter to every role you apply for. Match your skills to those listed in the job description. Give examples of times when you’ve demonstrated those attributes.
- Find your “unique selling point” which sets you apart from the crowd. Whether you write a blog, have a quirky hobby, or you’ve spent time shadowing someone in your field, it all helps.
- If your CV lacks practical experience, do voluntary work or an internship to boost your application. Taking an industry-recognised course could also enhance a particular set of skills.
- Networking sites are a great way to build relationships with school friends and teachers. You never know who might be able to introduce you to your dream employer later down the line.
Take to a bigger stage
STAGECOACH has more than 200 jobs up for grabs across the country – many suitable for school leavers.
Roles range from trainee drivers and mechanics to cleaners and admin staff.
David Gawthorpe, head of resourcing at the transport group, says: “Stagecoach is an amazing business which puts people at the heart of what we do.”
Find a job at .
Jobspot
SPECIALIST site has more than 185 jobs for GCSE leavers including apprenticeships and traineeships.
Aaron's made I.T. at last
FOLLOWING disappointing GCSE results, Aaron Leigh feared his dream of working in IT may not come true.
But Aaron landed an IT traineeship through provider QA. He was accepted for an apprenticeship scheme with the Institute of Management and Control that would have required a number of GCSEs.
The 19-year-old, from Hornchurch in Essex, has now joined IT firm Computer Talk, where he manages IT systems for the company’s school customers.
Aaron says: “Traineeships are designed to give you qualifications to do the apprenticeship of your choice, but also to teach you interview techniques for when you go for a job.
“So if you are stuck about what to do after school, try a traineeship.”
Jobspot
HOTEL chain Hilton is recruiting 130 apprentices over the next 12 months.
There are Level 2 and 3 programmes for school leavers while Level 4 and 5 apprenticeships are aimed at trainee managers.
Apply now at.
Hol lot of work
HOLIDAY giant Thomas Cook has close to 100 apprenticeship vacancies at .
Choose from Level 3 travel consultant apprenticeships in travel stores or Level 2 customer service practitioner apprenticeships.
MOST READ IN MONEY
There are also jobs at Thomas Cook Airlines in Manchester.
HR director Julie Armstrong says: “Many of our employees who joined as an apprentice have gone on to develop long-term careers in this exciting industry.
"I’d encourage anyone with a real passion for travel and delivering for customers to consider one.”
GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]