SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

56
Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus Issue 1 | South West Edition | Autumn 2011 SOUTH WEST EDITION Issue 1 - Autumn 2011 ISSN: 2047-377X Supporting Apprenticeship Week 7 - 11 February 2011 CONSTRUCTION SPORT & FITNESS BUSINESS & FINANCE FOOD & DRINK HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE MANUFACTURING RETAIL TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY ARMED FORCES ENGINEERING ENVIRONMENTAL & LAND BASED CUSTOMER SERVICE & ADMIN CREATIVE, DIGITAL & MEDIA ENERGY & RENEWABLES IT & TELECOMS PUBLIC SERVICES TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS MOTOR VEHICLE HAIR & BEAUTY APPRENTICESHIPS CAREERS TRAINING JOBS A-LEVELS COLLEGE

description

SOUTH WEST EDITION Supporting Apprenticeship Week 7 - 11 February 2011 Issue 1 - Autumn 2011 ISSN: 2047-377X Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus Issue 1 | South West Edition | Autumn 2011

Transcript of SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Page 1: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Open D

oors – The Regional Training ProspectusIssue 1 | South W

est Edition | Autumn 2011

SOUTH WEST EDITIONIssue 1 - Autumn 2011ISSN: 2047-377X Supporting Apprenticeship Week

7 - 11 February 2011

CONSTRUCTIONSPORT & FITNESS

BUSINESS & FINANCEFOOD & DRINK

HEALTH & SOCIAL CAREMANUFACTURING

RETAILTRAVEL & HOSPITALITY

ARMED FORCESENGINEERING

ENVIRONMENTAL & LAND BASEDCUSTOMER SERVICE & ADMIN

CREATIVE, DIGITAL & MEDIAENERGY & RENEWABLES

IT & TELECOMSPUBLIC SERVICES

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICSMOTOR VEHICLEHAIR & BEAUTY

APPRENTICESHIPSCAREERSTRAININGJOBSA-LEVELSCOLLEGE

Page 2: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

South Road, Taunton Somerset. TA1 3DZ. 01823 320 849www.huish.ac.uk [email protected]

Richard Huish Collegeand the Huish Business School

Huish is one of the best sixth form colleges in the country and has been ranked in the top ten for A level performance in the last fi ve years.

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

• Over 50 ‘A’ Level courses for school leavers• CIMA, ACCA, AAT accountancy courses• Foundation Degrees in Business & Management & Sports Development & Coaching• Team Leading, Leadership & Management (ILM) courses• Apprenticeships in a wide range of disciplines• ICT, Skills and a variety of short courses available

Page 3: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

... and this is our Regional Training Prospectus, here to help you decide what to do next.

This is the first issue of the new school year, and it’s an exciting time. Did you know there are endless opportunities, right on your doorstep? You could start earning qualifications and money with an apprenticeship, get a taste of the working world with employer funded study, carry on learning at sixth form or college and more.

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

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

The future is in your hands... right here in this prospectus. So turn the page and let’s get started!

www.twitter.com/opendoorsmedia

www.facebook.com/The.Regional.

Training.Prospectus

FIND US

ON FACEBOOK

HELLO, WE’RE OPEN DOORS...

Open Doors – Autumn 2011 - South West edition

Open Doors – The Regional Training Prospectus is published by Open Doors Media Ltd ©2011.

ISSN: 2047-377XAll material is copyrighted both written and illustrated. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. All images and information is collated from extensive research and along with advertisements is published in good faith. Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at press time, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.

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

feel free to put a link to our website www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk on your schools resources web pages or intranet

Publisher – Karl [email protected]

Editor – Stan [email protected]

Business Development –Simon [email protected]

Advertising Sales – Matthew Gardner [email protected]

Production Manager – Lindsey [email protected]

Design – Studio Belly [email protected]

Distribution/Subscriptions [email protected]

To contact us:01765 694120 | [email protected]

South Road, Taunton Somerset. TA1 3DZ. 01823 320 849www.huish.ac.uk [email protected]

Richard Huish Collegeand the Huish Business School

Huish is one of the best sixth form colleges in the country and has been ranked in the top ten for A level performance in the last fi ve years.

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

• Over 50 ‘A’ Level courses for school leavers• CIMA, ACCA, AAT accountancy courses• Foundation Degrees in Business & Management & Sports Development & Coaching• Team Leading, Leadership & Management (ILM) courses• Apprenticeships in a wide range of disciplines• ICT, Skills and a variety of short courses available

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

03

The Intro Bits

Page 4: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

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

10 QUALIFICATIONS TABLE See how different qualifications add up, and how they compare

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

17 MOTOR VEHICLE SECTOR Love cars? There are lots of careers on offer

21 ENGINEERING SECTOR A varied sector with endless possibilities

25 ENERGY & RENEWABLES SECTOR One of the most varied and diverse of all the industry sectors

29 TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY SECTOR You could make a career of helping people enjoy themselves

33 ENVIRONMENTAL & LAND- BASED SECTOR Consider a career out in the fresh air

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

p17 Motor vehicle

sector

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

CONTENTS

The Intro Bits Careers Insight

The Intro Bits

04

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 5: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

p25 Energy & renewables sector

43 SPOTLIGHT ON THE SOUTH WEST All about your region

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

54 WEBSITE REVIEW Check out our step by step guide on how to get the best out of our fabulous website

p21 Engineering sector

p33 Environmental &

land-based sector

p29 Travel &

hospitality sector

HERE’S HOW IT WORKSEvery term, we publish a new issue of Open Doors that covers five sectors in detail so you get a good idea of what a career in those industries would be like. Don’t worry if the sector you’re keen on isn’t one of the five – you’ll find it in our overview of remaining sectors in the ‘Imagine a career in...’ article. With each new issue, we’ll cover five totally new sectors in detail, so make sure you look out for us next term.If there’s anything else you’d like us to cover, or if you just want to say hello, email us at [email protected]. We want to make sure our magazine offers everything you need (or just want to read about)! Happy reading, and hope you have a great term.

Useful Stuff

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

05

The Intro Bits

Page 6: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Follow us @YeovilCollege Search: Yeovil College

Where are you going?With an extensive selection of A Level, Apprenticeship and Vocational courses, put yourself on the road to success. Come along to one of the Full-time Information Evenings at our Mudford Road Campus to find out more.

Monday 17th October 2011 5.30pm – 8pmMonday 23rd January 2012 5.30pm – 8pm

www.successvil.co.uk | [email protected] | 01935 423 921

6211_Yeovil_Open Doors ad_AW.indd 1 30/08/2011 11:19

Page 7: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

FREQUENTLY ASKEDQUESTIONS

Follow us @YeovilCollege Search: Yeovil College

Where are you going?With an extensive selection of A Level, Apprenticeship and Vocational courses, put yourself on the road to success. Come along to one of the Full-time Information Evenings at our Mudford Road Campus to find out more.

Monday 17th October 2011 5.30pm – 8pmMonday 23rd January 2012 5.30pm – 8pm

www.successvil.co.uk | [email protected] | 01935 423 921

6211_Yeovil_Open Doors ad_AW.indd 1 30/08/2011 11:19

There are so many options it’s no surprise you’re left scratching your head! So what do you need to know?

Can I get a job with an employer straight

after leaving school?

How do I find out about

colleges in my area?

Which A Level subjects should I choose?

What is an Apprenticeship?

Is Foundation Learning the right

programme for me?

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

07

The Intro Bits

Page 8: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

APPRENTICESHIPSWhat is an apprenticeship?Apprenticeships are a great opportunity to gain

qualifications and workplace experience at the same

time! Apprenticeships involve working for an employer

while studying for a qualification part time with a training

provider or college (usually on day release).

What different types of apprenticeships are there?

There are over 190 types of Apprenticeships, in a huge

range of industry sectors, such as engineering, childcare,

veterinary nursing or even ceramic manufacturing.

Apprenticeships in every industry generally fall into the

three categories of intermediate, advanced and higher

Apprenticeships, and all result in qualifications.

Will an apprenticeship help me into a good career?

Career progression is excellent for apprentices, and over

the course of their careers, those who have completed

an Apprenticeship earn, on average, £100,000 more than

those without. Some Apprenticeships already result in UCAS points

or allow you to study for a Technical Certificate. Once you

have finished your Apprenticeship there’s the opportunity

to carry on working, get promoted or in some cases go

on to higher education in a college or university.

I heard you get paid to do an Apprenticeship! How

does that work?Apprentices have to be paid a minimum of £95 per week.

However, as in most job roles, many apprentices get paid

more by their employers as their skills develop. Research

has shown that apprentices take home an average of

£170 a week.The added bonus is that as long as you’re between 16

and 18 your studies are 100% paid for by the government.

A LEVELSWhat subjects should I choose?There is a lot to consider when deciding which subjects to do at A Level, but choosing what you enjoy and what you’re good at is usually a good place to start. Make sure you ask your subject teachers if you can’t decide, they’re there to help.

Another way to approach your choices is to look at what university course or job role you want to go into after A Levels and see which subjects they prefer you to study.

How will universities and employers view my qualifications and subject choices?Universities will make it clear which A Level subjects are desired for certain courses (this is why choosing the right subjects is important). Having studied relevant subjects gives you a huge advantage when applying.

Employers, more than universities, will look for your qualities as a person rather than focusing so much on your academic subjects of study. Of course having studied relevant subjects or doing work experience will still reflect well when applying for the most competitive jobs.

How much harder are A Levels than GCSE’s? Is there a bigger workload?This depends on you and your course. If you’re studying a subject you have previously studied at GCSE you will find that the course builds on your existing knowledge, however if you’re trying out a new subject it may take some time to adjust.

The workload for A Levels can also be a challenge, or for some people may actually suit their learning style better than GCSE’s. The main change from GCSE’s is that you will have to do more work outside of school. Though this may be daunting at first remember that you’ll be doing fewer subjects so you can focus more time on them to make up for it.

Can I change my A Level choices after I have started?Ideally you should stick to your subject choices. Most schools and colleges don’t allow you to change after a certain point in the term but if you are really struggling or not enjoying the subject the best thing to do is talk to your teachers or subject leaders. Sometimes the best thing to do is allow time to adapt and get used to the course, but if you do change subjects your teachers will give you the help you need to catch up.

FAQ’SWhen it comes to making big decisions there is always lots to consider, and it’s inevitable that you’ll have lots of questions you want answering before choosing what’s right for you. Here we answer some of the most common queries you might have ...

The Intro Bits

08

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 9: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

FIND OUT MORESo now you may have a bit more of an idea about what type of course or learning provider might

be right for you there’s loads more to discover. You can find out what courses and qualifications

are available in your local area with your local 14-19 prospectus, they’re on page 52.

... check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk for details of people who can help in your area.

FOUNDATION LEARNINGWhat is Foundation Learning?

Foundation Learning is a programme which aims to help you if

you don’t have the necessary experience, skills or qualifications

to start an Apprenticeship, college course or a job. In Foundation

Learning you will work with those guiding you to agree a

personalised programme which covers a range of skills.

Can I study for a qualification on Foundation Learning?

Yes, there are qualifications available including Literacy, Numeracy,

Health and Safety and First Aid. In practice most people on

Foundation Learning courses progress to Level 2 qualifications

(GCSE’s, Diplomas, Apprenticeships) or supported employment.

How will Foundation Learning help me?

Foundation Learning will help you to build up your confidence

and other skills. You will gain work experience and develop the

kind of skills and attitudes that will help get you ready for further

learning, make you more employable and prepare you for greater

independence.

Is Foundation Learning the right programme for me?

If you have left school and are unemployed, or don’t have

the qualifications you need, you will see huge benefits from

Foundation Learning. The important thing to remember is that

the programme will be carefully personalised and be aimed at

achievable targets for you.

EMPLOYERS AND

TRAINING PROVIDERS

Can I get a job with an employer straight after school?

Yes, lots of national and local companies recruit school leavers.

Some companies, like British Gas, have opportunities for

students straight after GCSE’s and some, like Deloitte, offer

opportunities once you have completed A Levels.

In these roles you can often gain qualifications whilst

working or get funding to go to college or university.

What’s the difference between a Work Based learning

provider and a college?

You may have seen the phrase ‘Work Based learning provider’

on your local 14-19 prospectus site. Don’t worry if you don’t

know what it means. Work Based learning providers essentially

provide vocational courses.

After school the idea of a Work Based Learning provider

may seem different but it could be right for you. There are

loads of types of training providers offering Work Based

Learning; some have set intakes for courses, some are always

looking out for recruits and some offer short or part time

courses. Your careers advisors will know which local providers

are best suited for what you want to get into.

COLLEGESShould I study at my school 6th form or a college?This can be a difficult decision and the best advice is to make sure you attend open days at both!

The main difference many students find is that colleges are a lot bigger and you have more independence. Though some people relish this you have to be self motivated as you won’t be pushed to do work, or even turn up, in the same way as at school. Of course at 6th form you will already know most of your teachers and friends but the key is choosing what is right for you. Whether that’s staying in your comfort zone or trying somewhere new.

How to find out about colleges in my area?www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk of course! Our site has links to all of the colleges in your area which is a good place to start browsing their sites and the courses they offer.

A good way of searching through all the colleges offering the Apprenticeships, A Levels or courses you want to do is to check out your local 14-19 prospectus. These are all featured on page 52 of the magazine and are really easy to use.

You’ll notice that different colleges have different specialities and your careers advisors will help you work out which are best for the courses that interest you.

What extra-curricular opportunities are available to me at college?Going to a college or staying on at 6th Form is a great way for you to get involved with activities outside of lessons, whether you choose to carry on with your current interests or take up new ones!

Colleges and 6th Forms will encourage you to broaden your horizons, and most will have opportunities to get involved in:• Performanceactivities(suchasdrama,dance,plays).• Sportsactivities(playingforaschool,countyor

area team).• Communitybasedactivities(thesecaninclude

charity fundraising, amnesty international or the Duke of Edinburgh scheme).

• BusinessandLeadershipopportunities(suchastheyoung enterprise scheme or roles on school councils).

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

09

The Intro Bits

Page 10: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

QUALIFICATIONSEXPLAINED

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

ENTRY LEVEL LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3

Entry Level Certificates

5 GCSEs (grades D-G)

5 GCSEs (grades A*-C) A Levels

Skills for Life

BTEC Introductory

Diplomas and Certificates

Advanced Apprenticeship

Functional Skills at entry level

(English, maths and ICT)

OCR NationalsBTEC First

Diplomas and Certificates

GCE in applied subjects

Diploma of Higher Education

Awards, Certificates, and

Diplomas at entry level

NVQs at level 1

Foundation Diploma

NVQs at level 2

Higher Diploma

BTEC Diplomas, Certificates and

Awards

NVQs at level 3

Advanced Diploma

HND, HNC

LEVEL 4-8

The Intro Bits

10

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

IntermediateApprenticeship

FoundationDegree

HigherApprenticeship

Page 11: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Foundation Diploma

Do you want to be a Technician of Tommorow?

You could be earning and learning at the same time! Contact us, its that easy!

We are an award winning apprenticeship providerto the motor industry in:

Are you ready to take the challenge???? ????????? ???????

Princess Street, Bristol, BS3 4AGG?GG 0117 953 3001 ? G 0117 953 3002

2??2GG [email protected] ? 2??G www.sandbaa.com

Body and paint repairLight VehicleAutoelectr ical Heavy Vehicle Motorcycle

Page 12: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

LEARNING FOR EMPLOYMENTLisa Mathewson was 15 when she started her NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care at Venus Training & Consultancy Ltd, based in Plymouth.

Lisa was a Year 10 student at Hele’s School in Plymouth and was fed up with the ‘conventional’ way of being educated. Lisa already knew that she wanted to work in a Health & Social Care setting and liked the idea of vocational training. She also felt there would be more opportunities to find out which area of Health & Social Care provision she would like to work in. The course involved a work placement and Lisa loved the ’hands on’ approach that she experienced with the people requiring support and care.

Lisa’s placement at Durnford Lodge, in Plymouth, gave her variety and she felt part of the team straight away, as well as gaining experience in Dementia and Mental Health. Lisa learnt many valuable skills to help her support people with these conditions.

Lisa became an important part of the team at Durnsford Lodge that she was offered a full time, permanent post. Lisa places huge value on her time at Venus Training & Consultancy and is now taking her Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care; she intends to become a Team Leader.

I f you would like further information from Venus Training & Consultancy please do not hesitate to contact Mandy Sykes [email protected] or on 0845 2012300

SUCCESS FOR OLIVIA FROM START TO FINISH AT WEYMOUTH COLLEGEOlivia Parker studied

the BTEC National

Diploma in Public

Services at Weymouth

College. Her tutor

informed her she could

carry on to university

level by enrolling

on a Degree Centre

Weymouth College

course in partnership

with Bournemouth

University. Olivia was

surprised that doing

a Level 3 vocational

course gave her the entry

requirements for most of Honours degrees she was

interested in, but choosing to study a degree near

home meant she would end up better off financially.

Olivia explains: “A couple of my friends from the

BTEC decided to enrol on the Foundation degree

and they were very supportive so I decided to do

the same. I’d like to say a big thanks to the lifelong

friends I made on the course and the amazing staff at

Weymouth College”

Olivia completed the Foundation Degree (FdA) in

Public Services with distinction and was chosen by

Bournemouth University as the best final year student

on a Partner College programme in 2010. Olivia went

onto explain: “The programme leader was a great

mentor and suggested I may enjoy teaching. So I got

some teaching experience and enrolled on a part-

time teaching course and I’m now lecturing at Further

Education level.”

Weymouth College, Cranford Avenue,

Weymouth, Dorset DT4 7LQ

01305 761100www.weymouth.ac.uk

LIFE STORIESThe Intro Bits

12

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 13: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

APPRENTICESHIPS FOR TWINS NATALIE AND LAURA POTTERNatalie After completing my A levels I went to university but realized it wasn’t for me. As I still wanted to carry on my education I started looking at apprenticeships.

I work as an apprentice at Richard Huish College in the Marketing Team whilst completing my NVQ Level 2 in Business and Administration. I was nervous when I first started work as I didn’t know what to expect but everyone was very friendly and welcoming and it didn’t take long for me to settle in. When I started my NVQ I found some parts quite confusing but with help from my teachers, colleagues and assessor it became easy.

Apprenticeships are a fantastic stepping stone to the career you want. You get the qualifications you need AND you also gain valuable work experience. This combination is something employers find hard to resist.

LauraI never knew what my plan was when I finished A levels. All I knew was that I wasn’t going to uni. The prospect of the debts scared me. Earning and learning at the same time was something that appealed so I looked at apprenticeships.

I got an apprenticeship at Musgrove Hospital and knew within the first week that this was something I wanted to do. I am based in the Planned Care Divisional Office and am completing my NVQ Level 2 in Business and Administration.

Apprenticeships are the way forward as when I finish my NVQ I will have a nationally recognised qualification, experience and no debts; win-win in my eyes!

For more information about Richard Huish College visit our website at www.huish.ac.uk or telephone 01823 320800 for a prospectus

SUCCESS AND A PROMISING CAREER FOR OWENOwen Pitts was the

first young person to

successfully complete

an Intermediate

and Advanced Apprenticeship through

SWAC (the South

West Apprenticeship

Company).

Owen was placed

with Apple Mac

computer specialists

Grafx to complete

his Advanced Apprenticeship and has now started work as a fully

fledged IT Technician with the company.

He opted for an Apprenticeship after deciding the

university course he was taking would place him in

too much debt with no guarantee of a job afterwards.

“It has worked out really well and I love the job.

When I left college I went to university to do

computer studies but I left because I decided I

didn’t want to rack up debt with no guarantee of a

job at the end of it.”

“I was put onto SWAC by the jobcentre, followed up

and got the job. Grafx is a great firm to work for and

SWAC have been really supportive throughout.”

Owen received support from his Learner Account

Manager Emma, who adds; “Owen is an ideal

example of someone for whom taking the

Apprenticeship route has worked out better than

university as he has now acquired some very real

practical skills that are opening up a promising career

path for him.”

The South West Apprenticeship Company (SWAC)

offers an opportunity to take up an Apprenticeship

with a local company, earning while you learn, with

the support of a SWAC Learner Account Manager.

For more information about Apprenticeships and to

see our latest vacancies go to www.theswac.org.uk

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

13

The Intro Bits

Page 14: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR TOM

In just one year, Tom

Waterworth went from

A-level drop-out to

launching a successful

career.

The Castleford 18-year-

old found his A-level

course in sports science

too theoretical and was

struggling to see a clear

route into employment.

But things changed when

he signed up for Lifetime’s

funded apprenticeship in

fitness instruction.

Tom said: “It was great to be studying in an adult

environment. What’s more, there was plenty of

gym-based, practical work, so I knew my job

prospects would be much better upon finishing

the course.”

After just a week’s voluntary work placement,

Tom was offered a full time, paid position as a

fitness instructor. So keen to progress in his new

career, Tom is currently completing a work-

based qualification in personal training and has

recently secured a new job as a Personal Trainer

with Fitness First. “I’m now doing what I always

wanted to do.”

Lifetime Fitness Academy and to book your place,

call 0870 120 1207 today!

www.lifetimetraining.co.uk/looking-for-a-job

The Intro Bits www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

14

LIFE STORIESCLARE WEEKS - APPRENTICESHIP IS IDEAL FOR MEOn leaving college after my A-Levels, I was unsure about going to University. I was accepted by Bath University; however, after a short time I did not feel this was the route for me.

I have always had an interest in Accountancy, therefore I began to look into how to access AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) training locally. Local colleges only started the AAT courses once a year, which did not meet my personal needs. My employer and I then came across Acacia Training in Plymouth. I was able to start the formal course almost immediately without having to wait a year, and I was also able to fast track the first year, which I competed in 6 months in preparation for the September start to the second year.

Since finding my first holiday job when I was fourteen, I have worked continuously for a Computer Aided Design Office based in Okehampton. My employer has been very supportive and encouraging in respect to the course.

I found the combination of learning whilst being employed in a challenging job ideal for me as I am able to put what I learn into practice. I really would urge anyone who is having doubts about which route of education they want to pursue to look into doing a modern apprenticeship.

For more information contactAcacia Training & DevelopmentTaunton 01823 330093 Mid Devon 01626 835485 Plymouth 01752 670811 Cornwall 07525 911011 www.acacia.ac.uk

Page 15: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

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

• Health & Social Care (Care of the Elderly)

• Children and Young People Workforce (Childcare)

• Hairdressing

• Barbering

• Accounting

• Administration

• Customer Service

Team Leading and Management

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

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

Your Career Starts Here

TAUNTONT: 01823 330093

NEWTON ABBOTTT: 01626 835485

PLYMOUTHT: 01752 670811

CORNWALLT: 07525 911011

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

www.acacia.ac.uk

• Health & Social Care (Care of the Elderly)

• Hairdressing

• Barbering

• Accounting

• Administration

• Customer Service

Team Leading and Management

• Children and Young People Workforce (Childcare)

looking for young people hoping to forge careers in the following sectors

Our fully qualifi ed training team will give you the advice you need and then advise you on the best direction for you. Our links with City &Guilds and the AAT (Association of

Acacia Training FP ad - South West v3.indd 1 05/09/2011 10:14

Page 16: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

33 million vehicles of all types travelling the equivalent of 12.5 million times round the world each year.

To keep these vehicles serviced, repaired and moving, the Retail Motor Industry employs 600,000 skilled individuals throughout the UK. Each year apprentices are recruited to ensure that skilled personnel continue to join the industry.

Do you want to get paid at the same time as developing the skills required to work in the Motor Industry and also achieve nationally recognised qualifications?

If the answer is ‘Yes’ then you should apply for an apprenticeship with Remit

As the training arm of the Retail Motor Industry, Remit has Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship opportunities throughout the country in a range of skilled occupations.

Choose from Service Technician (Light or Heavy Vehicle), Motor Cycle Technician, Body Repair, Vehicle Paint, Auto Electrician, Tyre/Exhaust Fitter, Parts Consultant, Vehicle Sales, Service Advisor, and Business Administration.

You will be employed as an apprentice at a company close to your home, and Remit will plan and deliver your training through a selected College of Further Education in your area or through structured training at your workplace.

Apprentices – keeping the country moving

Tel: 0845 8399 200 Email: [email protected]

www.remit.co.ukApply now at

‘Remit is committed to promoting working environments in which everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute to the success of the business’

Pre 115_Remit A4 Advert.indd 1 16/03/2011 08:38

Page 17: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Job opportunities are growing faster here

than in other parts of the

UK

The industry needs people

in lots of different and exciting job

roles

If you love cars this is the sector for you

MOTORVEHICLE SECTOR

Vocational training is

the best way to get into this sector

And the money’s good...

so why not consider a

career working in the motor

vehicle industry?

33 million vehicles of all types travelling the equivalent of 12.5 million times round the world each year.

To keep these vehicles serviced, repaired and moving, the Retail Motor Industry employs 600,000 skilled individuals throughout the UK. Each year apprentices are recruited to ensure that skilled personnel continue to join the industry.

Do you want to get paid at the same time as developing the skills required to work in the Motor Industry and also achieve nationally recognised qualifications?

If the answer is ‘Yes’ then you should apply for an apprenticeship with Remit

As the training arm of the Retail Motor Industry, Remit has Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship opportunities throughout the country in a range of skilled occupations.

Choose from Service Technician (Light or Heavy Vehicle), Motor Cycle Technician, Body Repair, Vehicle Paint, Auto Electrician, Tyre/Exhaust Fitter, Parts Consultant, Vehicle Sales, Service Advisor, and Business Administration.

You will be employed as an apprentice at a company close to your home, and Remit will plan and deliver your training through a selected College of Further Education in your area or through structured training at your workplace.

Apprentices – keeping the country moving

Tel: 0845 8399 200 Email: [email protected]

www.remit.co.ukApply now at

‘Remit is committed to promoting working environments in which everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute to the success of the business’

Pre 115_Remit A4 Advert.indd 1 16/03/2011 08:38

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

17

Careers Insight

Page 18: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

The motor vehicle sector deals with all aspects of cars, vans and motorcycles – selling them, fixing them, servicing them and even rescuing stranded drivers. There are lots of career paths on offer, from technical to customer-service based roles – it all depends on what interests you.

The good news about this sector is that vocational training is the best way to get into it, though academic routes, such as engineering degrees are a possibility. Here are the main areas within the motor vehicle sector – there are vocational routes into all of them.

Maintenance and repairOne of the most popular areas, maintenance and repair is about keeping cars roadworthy. These technicians service, fix and replace parts of all sorts of vehicles. They can work in independent garages or as part of dealerships, say working on just BMWs. Some technicians specialise in things like electrics or motorcycles.Earnings: Between £13,000 and £20,000 a year.

Body and paintBody and paint technicians fix cars that have been damaged in accidents. Body work can be sorting out rust or dents and scratches and paint work is about sprucing up after to make everything look like new again.Earnings: Between £13,500 and £18,000 a year.

Roadside assistanceWhen someone’s car breaks down on the side of the road, it’s the roadside recovery technician who comes to the rescue. They either fix the car onsite or safely tow it back to a garage.Earnings: Between £13,000 and £16,000 a year.

FittingMotor vehicle fitters repair and replace parts on cars, like tyres, batteries, brakes and exhausts while the customers wait. They can work in fast-fit centres, dealerships or alongside motor vehicle technicians.Earnings: Between £12,000 and £15,000 a year.

Parts operationsThis area is about selling car parts to the public – dealerships, motor vehicle technicians and everyday customers. It’s a customer-service based role that requires good organisation to process payments, manage inventory, advise customers, and more.Earnings: Between £9,000 and £14,500 a year.

SalesThis is about selling cars, which involves broad knowledge of cars and negotiation skills. It’s also about understanding people – sales people need to find the car that’s right for the customer, and have the confidence to seal the deal.Earnings: Between £10,000 and £15,000 a year, plus commission.

There are 32 million vehicles on the UK’s roads, and all of them need to be serviced, repaired, bought and sold. That’s where the motor vehicle industry comes in…

MOTOR VEHICLES

SOUTH WEST FOCUS There are various different roles within the sector that you can get involved with; these include vehicle sale, roadside assistance, vehicle repair, body building, vehicle rental and parts distribution and supply. Sales and light vehicle maintenance have the highest number of employers here. Gloucestershire is home to the Colt Car Company (they own Mitsubishi) and metal is pressed for MINIs in Wiltshire.

Fast facts:• 11%oftheUK’smotorretailindustryemployees

are in the South West.• Over50,000peopleintheSouthWestare

employed in the motor vehicle sector.• Thereareover7,000workplacesinthemotor

vehicle sector here.• Themostcommonsub-sectorismotorsales,

followed by light vehicle maintenance.

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

Careers Insight

18

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 19: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

GET QUALIFIEDThere are plenty of vocational courses in this sector...

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are the recommended route into

this sector. You’ll get a job with an employer and

do half of your learning on the job, and half in the

classroom with a college or training provider. Here

are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the

sector, all of these are NVQ level 2:• RoadsideAssistanceandRecovery

• VehicleBodyandPaintOperations

• VehicleFitting• VehicleMaintenanceandRepair• VehiclePartsOperations• VehicleSales

Advanced ApprenticeshipsAdvanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A

Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous

for practical roles. Historically Advanced

Apprentices have progressed significantly in the

industry and many have gone on to become

supervisors or managers, because of the hand-on

practical nature of the sector this is a good route

to take. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks

relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3:

• RoadsideAssistanceandRecovery

• VehicleBodyandPaintOperations

• VehicleFitting• VehicleMaintenanceandRepair• VehiclePartsOperations• VehicleSales

A LevelsA Levels can either lead to university or a

Foundation Degree, which are explained below, but

which ones are right for you depend on what role

you want to do. Most people take the vocational

routes into the motor industry, but you could do the

more practical Foundation Degree after A Levels

or study something like mechanical engineering at

university.

Foundation DegreesA Foundation Degree is a higher education

qualification which combines academic study with

practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by

universities, colleges and employers, they should

give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are

equivalent to the first two years of an honours

degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree

takes two years to complete, and are different

from Honours Degrees as they usually involve

learning in the workplace as well as at university or

college. They are available in a range of subjects,

from motor vehicle performance to mechanical

engineering, and are a good way to get qualified

and gain experience.

USEFUL LINKSwww.motor.org.uk – The Institute of the Motor Industry is

the Sector Skills Council

www.remit.co.uk - National training provider specialising in

motor vehicle apprenticeships

www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource

CASE STUDYSamantha Dodds – Service Technician apprentice

Samantha Dodds completed her three year apprenticeship at Vickers 4x4 in July 2011. Sam who is a confident and pro active young woman approached Vickers 4x4 for an apprenticeship placement. Ian Vickers had set up the business only two months before being approached by Sam and was keen to taken on an apprentice as he had trained on an apprenticeship programme through Remit himself. Ian gave Sam a trial at the garage and knew straight away she would be an asset to his business. Ian wants to ensure his apprentices receive the best training possible so he chose Remit as he was aware through his own training experience of the standard of support Remit can provide.

Sam has enjoyed her apprenticeship and feels much happier to have learnt in a work based environment. She enjoys working with real vehicles which have real problems to fix. Sam attended College one day a week throughout her apprenticeship arranged and funded by Remit.

Sam puts her interest in mechanics down to a passion for fixing things and solving problems, along with the influence from friends who also have an interest in cars.

For more information about Remit contact:- e mail [email protected] Phone 08458399200 Web www.remit.co.uk

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

19

Careers Insight

Page 20: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Stroud Collegeopening doors, opening mindsAt Stroud College we positively change peoples lives by delivering high quality education and training. We achieve this within a friendly culture of mutual respect and support for our students, staff, parents and employers. We believe that by opening minds we can open doors.

Stroud College offers courses in...• Art&Design

• MusicTechnology

• CreativeGamesDevelopment

• Computing&IT

• Business&Administration

• ConstructionSkills

• Plumbing

• Electrical

• Bricklaying

• Carpentry&Joinery

• Engineering

• Hair,Beauty&ComplementaryTherapies

• MakeupArtistry

• Health,CareandEarlyYears

• PublicServices

• Sport

• AccesstoCollegeEducation(ACE)

• AccesstoHigherEducation

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

www.stroud.ac.uk or call 01453 761126

One of the best performing colleges in the UK - and top in Gloucestershire

for 16-18 year olds on long courses

Page 21: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

ENGINEERINGSECTOR

Engineers solve some

of the biggest problems in modern life

You could end up doing anything, from shaving a millionth of a second off lap times in Formula

One to putting communications satellites in orbit

Want to shape the future?

After an Engineering

Apprenticeship you could be

earning £20,000 a year!

Qualified engineers

are in huge demand

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

21

Careers Insight

Page 22: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

ENGINEERINGFrom making aeroplanes fly to maintaining sophisticated machinery, engineers are behind the greatest achievements of mankind. Get into engineering and you’ll be on one of the most exciting career paths out there!

SOUTH WEST FOCUS Around 3% of the South West’s employment is in this sector. An estimated 19,000 jobs need to be filled by around 2014, mainly due to replacing staff that have left, due to retirement for example. This makes your potential prospects good. There are a number of colleges here that offer qualifications in engineering based subjects. These include Petroc, Wiltshire College, Yeovil College and City College Plymouth.

Fast facts:• Thereare33centresthatofferengineering

Apprenticeships here.• TheremostpopularqualificationforthissectorisNVQ in Engineering Maintenance.• Around3%ofemploymenthereisinthissector.

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

SALARIES If you get an Apprenticeship, you can expect to

start earning a minimum of £95 per week – this

will increase as you train. Currently, many skilled

people in the engineering industry earn over £400

per week – that’s over £20,000 per year.

At the heart of every technological advance is an engineer. In fact, an engineer has played a role in almost every aspect of our society. Chemical engineers create new fuels to keep vehicles moving; civil engineers design our railways and roads; and aerospace engineers design the most modern aircraft.

Engineers use problem solving, creativity and imagination to come up with answers to problems. The main challenge is doing more with less. How can they make something more cheaply, quickly and effectively than ever before?

Engineering is one of the most varied sectors out there. Here are some of the main areas:

ChemicalThe processing of raw materials into fuels, chemicals, plastics and pharmaceuticals.

MechanicalDesigning motors, machinery and other engines.

MetalsThe fabrication and welding of metals.

ElectricalDesigning and making electrical systems and components.

AerospaceDesigning and maintaining aircraft. (The UK’s industry is the second largest in the world, behind the USA.)

MarineDesigning ships and boats and other watercraft.

DefenceDsigning and maintaining aircraft, navigation systems, rockets, satellites etc for the Ministry of Defence.

Apprenticeships are a recognised pathway into engineering. Popular job roles for apprentices in the region include: automotive or aerospace assembly, mechanical engineering, maintenance, welding, and fabrication.

Careers Insight

22

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 23: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

USEFUL LINKSwww.apprentices.co.uk - search for engineering

Apprenticeships here

www.enginuity.org.uk - this website has lots of info about

engineering careers

www.thecareerengineer.com - website for engineering

jobswww.semta.org.uk - Sector Skills Council for

science, engineering and manufacturing

www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource

CASE STUDYSam Sparrow

Sam has always enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together again. So when Stroud College launched its new engineering department he wanted to find out more: “It felt completely new and exciting, with really good opportunities for an interesting career.”

Sam completed a Level 2 BTEC First Diploma in Engineering, a one year course designed to cover a broad range of topics: “We used milling machines and a 3-d prototyper, for example, and worked on hydraulics and electronic circuit construction. We also covered subjects such as health and safety, science for engineering, selecting materials and programming.”

Taking time out of studies to visit engineering companies was one of the highlights of the course: “It gave me a real feeling of what it would be like to work in engineering, and I was surprised to find how every company was so different.”

Having completed his course, Sam is starting as an apprentice with Delphi plc: “It will be a mixture of working and studying so that, in three or four years time, I will be well-qualified as an engineer with a strong career ahead of me.”

Stroud College offers a mixture of apprenticeship training, Level 2 and Level 3 courses. The college has invested in state-of-the-art facilities, with students using computer aided design, robotics equipment, CNC mills and CNC lathes, as well as traditional grinders, lathes, mills, drills and saws. Students use an ipad 2 to support the course theory and research.

Neil Brayshaw, the college’s head of engineering, said: “Sam’s success is a great example for other young people thinking of a career in engineering. By joining Stroud College, you’re joining a centre of excellence, with superb training and apprenticeship opportunities.”

Excited by engineering? Please call our customer services team on 01453 761126 to find out more or visit www.stroud.ac.uk

GET QUALIFIED!To get into engineering, you’ll need hands-on experience and a good head for maths and science...

ApprenticeshipsAn Apprenticeship in engineering offers the best possible preparation to becoming a trained operator within the industry. Because the engineering industry is so big and varied, the type of work you do will depend on your employer and the engineering pathway you choose – this could be mechanical, fabrication and welding, electrical or electronic. You might work on the production of products or service and repair production machinery in many industries. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2:• Engineering• EngineeringConstruction• Heating,Ventilating,AirConditioning&Refrigeration• IndustrialApplications• MarineIndustry

Advanced ApprenticeshipsAdvanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Historically Advanced Apprentices have progressed significantly in the industry and many have gone on to become supervisors or managers, because of the hand-on practical nature of the sector this is a good route to take. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3:• Engineering• EngineeringConstruction• Heating,Ventilating,AirConditioning&Refrigeration• MarineIndustryYou can also do a Higher Apprenticeship, NVQ level 4 in:• EngineeringTechnology

A LevelsA Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree, which are explained below, but which ones are right for you depend on what role you want to do. Most employers and universities value practical and scientific subjects, these demonstrate that you would be able to understand how everything works. Here are some recommended A Level subjects, which could set you in the right direction:• Biology• Chemistry• Design&Technology• Maths• MarineScience• Physics

Foundation DegreesA Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic study with practical hands-on experience. Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they should give you the right skills to be ready for employment. They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent to the first two years of an Honours Degree. A typical full-time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and are different from honours degrees as they usually involve learning in the workplace as well as at university or college. They are available in a range of subjects; you can even do them in aircraft engineering.

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

23

Careers Insight

Page 24: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4
Page 25: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

In helping to develop low-

carbon energy your career could help

save the planet You could

be working with state of the art nuclear

technology

ENERGY ANDRENEWABLES SECTOR

You could work in the great

outdoors ... or even at sea

If you like variety this could be the

sector for you, there are opportunities

for all ...

Lots of fresh recruits are needed with

the new technology

being developed

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

25

Careers Insight

Page 26: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

SALARIESIf you decide to enter the industry through an apprenticeship you can expect to start earning a minimum of £95 per week – increasing as you train. Salaries within the industry vary from £13,000 - £30,000 depending on skill level and the role. This industry is one of the best in terms of earning potential for those who enter through vocational pathways, for example many off-shore roles pay as much as £45,000.

The EDF Advanced Nuclear Apprenticeship scheme is a good example of how a vocational route can help you get ahead. It is a four year scheme which starts with a basic pay rate of £8,900 and increases up to £17,000 by the end, meaning that you’ll have earned money and gained a valuable qualification in the industry at the same time.

SOUTH WEST FOCUS

Oldbury,HinkleyPointA&BandBerkeleyNuclear

Power Stations are situated the region. Only two are still

generating power, the remaining activities are focused upon

decommissioning of facilities, which means there are still

employment opportunities. Devonport dockyard is where

nuclear submarines are serviced. The South West as a whole

has a focus upon travel and tourism – the rural filling station

infrastructure is vital in supporting this key sector. There are

a number of colleges in the area with courses that can lead

to careers in the sector, these include; Bournemouth and

Poole College, Cornwall College, Plymouth College of Further

Education and Swindon College.

Fast Facts• Over20%oftheregionsfirmsinthesectorare

reporting skills gaps, so new recruits are needed.

• Almost7,000peopleareemployedbynuclearindustries

in the region, which is above the national average.

• Thereareover500employersinthepetroleumindustry

in the South West.

Start learning!Wantacourseinenergy&renewablesintheSouthWest?

Then turn to page 52 to find out how to access your

local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s offering what

course in your local area, or you could visit

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

ENERGY & RENEWABLES

Here are some of the most popular job roles you can get into, for more information on these check out the useful links across the page:

ROLESNuclear TechnicianTechnicians perform design, specification, testing and procurement, as well as assessing plant safety and procedures.

Laboratory TechnicianLaboratory technicians provide quality control by carrying out routine and non routine testing on different sample products, such as petroleum.

Maintenance EngineerMaintenance engineers are responsible for ensuring the continuous running of machinery and equipment, organising routine maintenance procedures and carrying out repairs.

Oil and Gas MaintenanceThese roles are usually based on offshore oil or gas platforms, and can involve repairing machinery, instruments and electronics.

Network OfficerProvide engineering support and management of design, construction, operation and maintenance of the network. Making sure energy gets from power stations to customers safely and effectively.

Electrical Generation WorkerDirectly operate equipment within the power station. Whether utilising gas, coal, wind power or nuclear power they are on the frontline of generating the energy.

Recycling OperativeCollect and transfer recyclable materials to designated facilities, from a variety of households, industrial and commercial premises.

Water Network OperativeWork outside on the heavy machinery that is vital to the network, a physical job for those who have an aptitude for using tools and instruments.

With many roles in the industry being engineering or technically focused there are lots of vocational pathways into the energy and renewables sector. There is also a lot of scope for progression as more skills are gained too, with roles for university graduates, as well as entry level apprentices.

The energy and renewables Sector is one of the most varied and diverse of all the industry sectors. There are lots of different job roles, from engineers and technicians, to operatives and customer care staff. With the development of low carbon and renewable energies it’s also one of the most exciting sectors to work in!

Careers Insight

26

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 27: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

GET QUALIFIED!There are multiple routes into the energy and renewables

sector. With many of the roles being hands-on and technically

challenging, vocational courses offer qualifications to help

your career progress...

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are a great way to get into the energy

industry as they offer the practical experience required to

quickly progress as an engineer or technician. Because the

sector is so varied the type of work undertaken will depend

on the employer and the role you’re in. Below are the

Apprenticeship frameworks available in the sector, all of these

are NVQ level 2:• GasIndustry• PolymerProcessingandSignmaking

• PowerIndustry• SustainableResourceManagement

• WaterIndustry

Advanced ApprenticeshipsAdvanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but

like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles.

Historically Advanced Apprentices have progressed significantly

in the industry and many have gone on to become supervisors

or managers. Many have remained in the industry for their

whole career as this is the start of progressing to a skilled

status. Below are the Apprenticeship frameworks available in

the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3:

• AdvancedNuclear• GasIndustry• NuclearDecommissioning• PolymerProcessingOperations• PowerIndustry• SustainableResourceManagement

• WaterIndustry

A LevelsA Levels can either lead to university or a Foundation Degree,

which are explained below, but which ones are right for you

depend on what role you want to do. Most employers and

universities value practical and scientific subjects, these

demonstrate that you would be able to understand how

everything works. Here are some recommended A Level

subjects, which could set you in the right direction:

• Biology• Chemistry• Physics• Maths

Foundation Degrees A Foundation Degree is a higher education qualification which

combines academic study with practical hands-on experience.

Designed jointly by universities, colleges and employers, they

should give you the right skills to be ready for employment.

They are university-level qualifications and are equivalent

to the first two years of an honours degree. A typical full-

time Foundation Degree takes two years to complete, and

are different from Honours Degrees as they usually involve

learning in the workplace as well as at university or college.

They are available in a range of subjects, from power

distribution to sub-sea engineering, and are a good way to

get qualified and gain experience.

CASE STUDYDanny Broadbent – Welding Apprenticeship

Flying around the world and competing in international competitions... it may come as a surprise, but this is all down to a Power Sector Apprenticeship. Danny Broadbent has successfully completed his Apprenticeship in Welding and is now working for Alstom at Kings North power station in Kent. Danny has carried out his Welding Apprenticeship over four years; one of them at college, with the remaining three working on site with the other Apprentices. Recently returning from Portugal with a silver medal after competing in the International Welding Competition, Danny’s new skills have given him the opportunity to see the world and the flexibility to develop within his role. He plays a very important part in the future of power. Danny works as part of a team of welders, in an encouraging environment, where everyone supports each other and where there is always someone around to offer advice and help if there are any problems. “Day in day out everything tends to be different, it’s a good set of people you work with, with great managers who have taught me a lot. I’d recommend an Apprenticeship to anyone.” Danny Broadbent, Welder, Alstom With Apprenticeships available in the Power Sector there’s never been a better time to think about how you could get involved. The power sector offers you variety, career development and job security and relies on the innovation and hard work of people within it. Be a part of it.

www.thinkpowersector.co.uk

National Skills Academy for PowerFriars Gate 1011 Stratford Road Shirley Solihull West Midlands B90 4BN

USEFUL LINKSwww.cogent-ssc.com – Sector Skills Council for Oil, Gas,

Nuclear, Petroleum and Polymers

www.euskills.co.uk – Sector Skills Council for Energy,

Waste and Utilities

www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

27

Careers Insight

Page 28: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

quality standard for informationadvice and guidance services

approved by the matrix Accreditation Body

®

Careers South West

Not sure what to do next? Careers South West can help...

We can help you explore your options and help you make decisions. Whether you want to know more about university, apprenticeships or taking a gap year we will listen to you and give you the information, guidance and support you need to pursue your ideas. You can speak to one of our advisers in school or college, at one of our Careers South West centres,or by phone on 0800 9755111 For more information check out our website www.careerssw.org Our Facebook pagehttp://www.facebook.com/connexionscd Or follow us on Twitter athttp://twitter.com/connexionscd

0800 9755111

www.careerssw.org

Careers South West

Open_doors_A4_ad.indd 1 26/08/2011 21:39

Page 29: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

More than half of the

people in this sector are between 16

and 28

You could take the first career step that Jamie Oliver took

So why not get into one of the UK’s

largest, most popular

(and fun!) sectors?

There are careers that can take you around the

world

You don’t have to

work 9-5 in an office

TRAVEL &HOSPITALITY SECTOR

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

29

Careers Insight

Page 30: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY

SOUTH WEST FOCUSThe South West attracts around 26 million visitors

every year, bringing in over £8 billion annually; the

region needs employees to serve the billions of

visitors, which is why we are so reliant upon our

service sector. A large majority of these employees

are in your age category. South West Tourism has

developed an action plan for tourism in the region

which includes a vow to create quality jobs with

career progression and prospects.

Fast facts:• Therearenearly19,000workplacesinthis

sector here.• 69%oftheseworkplacesarerestaurantsor

bars,clubs&nightclubs.

• ThemajorityoftheSouthWest’sworkersin

this sector are under 25.

• Nearly193,000peopleworkinthissector.

• Devonhasthemostestablishmentsinthis

sector.

Start learning!Want to find a course in the South West? Then

turn to page 52 to find out how to access your

local 14-19 prospectus. It will tell you who’s

offering what course in your local area, or you

could visit www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

This is one of the most popular sectors. In our country alone, it employs nearly 2.1 million people and covers a range of industries from restaurants and hotels to tour operators and nightclubs.

People working in this industry arrange our holidays, cook for us in restaurants, serve drinks at the bar, lead our tours, and more. It’s a buzzing, exciting sector with many opportunities to work in the UK and abroad. In fact, businesses in this industry take on close to 15,000 new apprentices each year.

Herearesomeofthemajorareasintravel&hospitality:

Travel servicesThese are the travel agents and tour operators who help people book their holidays. They work in both call centres and high street travel agencies (like Thomas Cook, STA Travel), advising people on anything from flight schedules and tour packages to travel insurance and visa information. Good customer service is an essential part of this career.Earnings: Salaries start between £11,000 and £14,000 a year.

CateringThis is all about professional cooking – for restaurants, takeaways, canteens, pubs, cafes and anywhere else that boasts a menu. It’s an industry that rewards hard work and ambition. After all, Jamie Oliver started out as a cooking apprentice.Earnings: Salaries start between £10,000 and £13,000 a year.

Air cabin crewFancy a career up in the air? These are the people who make sure we’re comfortable and safe during flights. The perks are lots of free travel and a career that’s always on the go.Earnings: Salaries start between £14,000 and £16,000 a year.

Bars & waitstaffWe Brits love to go out. This is the perfect industry for people who like to get out there and mingle. Bar and wait staff work ‘front of house’ in restaurants, pubs and nightclubs and serve customers. It’s all about good customer service…and the tips of course!Earnings: Salaries start between £9,000 and £12,000 a year (plus tips).

Hotels & resortsIt takes a lot of people to run a successful hotel – the receptionists who check in guests, the housekeeper who keeps the sheets crisp, the reservations assistant who makes bookings, the porter who ferries luggage to the room. This industry covers work in hostels, caravan parks and holiday parks too.Earnings: Salaries start between £10,000 and £13,000 a year.

Fancy a career where you help people enjoy themselves, with opportunities to travel in the UK and abroad? Then look no further than the travel and hospitality sector…

Careers Insight

30

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 31: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

CASE STUDYName: Jed LoudAge: 17Course: Travel and Tourism Level 1

I’d eventually like to work as air cabin crew or a holiday rep. The Travel and Tourism course can lead to many opportunities in the industry so it was an ideal course for me.

The best bit of the course is learning about different types of travel and different aspects of travel and tourism. It’s a really friendly college and there is a nice atmosphere. Once I have finished the Level 1 course I have a place on Level 2 and I will then progress onto Level 3. I want to have a lot more experience behind me and get as much knowledge as I can before I get a job.

If you are really interested in travel and tourism, I would recommend this to others! It’s a fun course, you learn so much and it’s really rewarding.

For more information call 0117 312 5000 or visit www.cityofbristol.ac.uk

GET QUALIFIED!There are plenty of vocational courses for this sector...

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. (It’s how Jamie Oliver started.) You’ll get a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. There are Apprenticeships ranging from catering to air cabin crew. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2:• CabinCrew• CleaningandSupportServices• HospitalityandCatering• TravelServices

Advanced Apprenticeships Advanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining employment experience. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3:• HospitalityandCatering• TravelServices

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

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

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

USEFUL LINKSwww.people1st.co.uk – People 1st are the Sector Skills

Council for travel and tourism.

www.uksp.co.uk – UKSP is a guide for careers, skills and

training in this sector.

www.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

31

Careers Insight

Page 32: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

The Regional Training Prospectus for everything you’ll ever need to know about colleges, apprenticeships, careers, training schemes and jobs in your region.

Sign up for our newsletter to be among the first to receive upcoming job and training opportunities, open day and careers event information, news and exciting competitions direct to your inbox.

Check out www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

WONDERING WHICH WAY TO GO...?

APPRENTICESHIPSCAREERS

TRAININGJOBS

A-LEVELSCOLLEGE

www.twitter.com/opendoorsmedia

Facebook: Search for -

The Regional Training Prospectus

FIND USON FACEBOOK

THE ONLINE REGIONAL TRAINING PROSPECTUS

GO THERE, GET THE EDUCATION!

Norton Radstock College

Call us on 01761 433161 or text LEARN and then your enquiry to 07950 080682

Full-time courses• - get a head start along the career path of your choice

Apprenticeships• - earn and learn at the same time, including higher level apprenticeships

Higher level courses• - avoid costly University fees and study a higher level course at College no

rtcol

l.ac.

uk

Page 33: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

ENVIRONMENTAL & LAND BASED SECTOR

So why spend your life tied

to a desk? Continue

reading to start growing your

potential…

On average you’ll earn £100 more a week in

this sector than you would in the

retail, hotel or restaurant industries

You could protect wildlife, grow the home

turf of your football club or care for

animals

Want to spend your

career outside?

Your office could be

an area of outstanding

natural beauty

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

33

Careers Insight

Page 34: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

USEFUL LINKSwww.land-force.com - jobsite for land-based careers

www.lantra.co.uk - the Sector Skills Council for

the industrywww.lantracoursefinder.co.uk - helps you find a course in

your areawww.growcareers.info - careers in horticulture for young

peoplewww.careersbox.co.uk - Careers films on the web

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk - Our online careers resource

SOUTH WEST FOCUSAround 146,000 people are employed in this sector here. If you don’t like the idea of working for someone else then perhaps this is the industry for you; around 50% of the workforce is self-employed. There are a number of areas within this sector that you could work in, including floristry, landscaping, animal care and environmental conservation. The sub-sector with the most employees here is agricultural crops and livestock.

Fast facts:• Therearearound33,000environmentaland

land based businesses in the South West.• 74%ofemployeesworkfulltime.• 7%ofthesector’sestablishmentsinSouthWest

have at least one vacancy.

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

Not everyone has to spend their career tied to a desk – in this sector, you could be one of the lucky people who get to work outside. It’s an exciting time to join this sector, Britain is trying to produce more of its own food, fight climate change, and protect areas of natural beauty. There are lots of opportunities to make a difference to the planet, and future generations.

So what can you do? Loads! This sector covers farming; protecting the environment; landscaping; growing flowers; caring for animals and wildlife; maintaining the turf on pitches and much, much more.

Here are some of the main sub-sectors:

Horticulture & landscapingThis is about creating and looking after designed landscapes in cities and the countryside. It covers work like maintaining sports turf, gardens, parks, golf courses and even business grounds.Earnings: From £12,000 to £20,000 a year.

AgricultureAs the UK strives to increase its own food production, opportunity is growing in this area. Agriculture covers work in farms, dairies and ‘agribusinesses’ or companies that supply the industry with things like animal feed, fertilisers and farm machinery.Earnings: From £12,000 to £17,000 a year.

Animal careFrom running a cattery to training horses, this career is for the animal lovers. Animal care is about handling, supervising and caring for animals, from small domestic pets to wildlife. Includes work with breeders, pet shops, groomers, animal welfare charities and zoos.Earnings: From £11,000 to £13,000 a year for animal care. £14,000 to £22,000 for veterinary nurses.

Environmental conservationThis area is for people who are passionate about environmental issues. It’s not just about saving the planet – conservation is all about coming up with solutions that will lead to a more sustainable, healthy environment.Earnings: From £15,000 to £20,000 a year.

Land-based engineeringThese are the people who design, manufacture and maintain agricultural equipment, like combine harvesters and tractors. Working for dealerships and manufacturers, these engineers use technical knowledge to solve problems for the agricultural industry.Earnings: From £20,000 to £26,000 a year.

From agriculture and animal care to conservation and horticulture, there are many paths towards a rewarding career in this sector…

ENVIRONMENTAL& LAND BASED

Careers Insight

34

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 35: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

GET QUALIFIED!There are plenty of vocational routes into this sector...

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are the recommended route into this sector. You’ll get a job with an employer and do half of your learning on the job, and half in the classroom with a college or training provider. There are Apprenticeships ranging from agriculture to animal care, and more, here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 2:• Agriculture• AnimalCare• EnvironmentalConservation• Equine• Fencing• Floristry• GameandWildlifeManagement• Horticulture• Land-basedEngineering• TreesandTimber• VeterinaryNursing

Advanced ApprenticeshipAdvanced Apprenticeships are equivalent to A Levels, but like Apprenticeships are advantageous for practical roles. Advanced Apprenticeships help you become more qualified whilst gaining employment experience. Here are the Apprenticeship frameworks relevant to the sector, all of these are NVQ level 3:• Agriculture• AnimalCare• EnvironmentalConservation• Equine• Farriery• Floristry• GameandWildlifeManagement• Horticulture• Land-basedEngineering• VeterinaryNursing

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

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

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

CASE STUDYNatalie Harrow

Which course are you studying?I am studying a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Agriculture at Bridgwater College’s Cannington Centre in Somerset.

What would you usually do in a typical day?Every day is different; there is always something new and exciting going on. One of my highlights has to be when BBC1’s Countryfile visited the Farm and I was interviewed on film.

What do you enjoy most about the course?The practical lessons are my favourite. The teachers don’t tell us what we’re going to be covering until we arrive that morning, so we have to respond quickly and flexibly. We could be doing something routine like medicating and vaccinating the cows or dealing with an emergency situation.

What are the main benefits of studying a course in Agriculture?Working outdoors in the fresh air and getting experience working with animals. The facilities are fantastic and the focus of the course is about preparing you to go into work or onto university.

Why did you choose this course?I previously studied an Animal Management course and really enjoyed it. Agriculture is an industry that really interests me and my previous course made me realise that you don’t need to come from a farming background to study a course in Agriculture.

What do you hope to progress on to on completion of this course?I’d like to go straight into working in the industry, preferably specialising in livestock, the experiences that I’ve had on this course have really opened my eyes to the range of opportunities out there.

For more information call 01278 441234 or visit www.bridgwater.ac.uk

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

35

Careers Insight

Page 36: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Trust the Experts... for your future careerVocational qualifications in:

Art and Design Business

Computer Gaming and IT Construction

Engineering Foundation Learning

Hair and Beauty Health and Social Care

Hospitality and Catering Sport and Public Services

Travel and Tourism

Children’s Care, Learning and Development

College Interactive Information EveningFrom 16 to adult, all levels

Wednesday 19 October // 5.30pm - 8pmSomerset College

Wellington Road, Taunton

01823 366 366 // www.somerset.ac.uk Somerset CollegeWellington Road Taunton Somerset TA1 5AX 01823 366 366 www.somerset.ac.uk

Focus Training... Focusing on Your FuTureWhy not get paid to get qualified through an Apprenticeship in;

customer service | Business administration retail or Warehousing & Logistics | Hospitality including Food & Beverage service

Professional cookery | Team Leading

straight into a Job • earn a Wage • get Qualified • start a career

T: 0800 0855 912 e: [email protected] Website: www.focus4training.co.uk

Focus Training Ad.indd 1 05/09/2011 10:05

Page 37: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

IMAGINE A CAREER...

Designing websites

Organising holidays

Making big

money deals

Travelling around the

world

Repairing sports cars

Leading outdoor

expeditions

Helping to cure life threatening

diseases

Cooking five-star meals

Fitting shop frontsRenovating

old houses

Caring for

animalsWorking behind

the scenes in TV

Saving the

planet

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

37

Careers Insight

Page 38: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CHOICEWondering what other careers are out there?Here are some of the other sectors in your region...

Armed Forces Britain’s armed forces – the Army, Royal Navy, RAF and MoD – all invest a lot in their personnel to give them an education that’s relevant in the civilian world as well as in the services. They all offer Apprenticeships so recruits can earn nationally recognised trade qualifications alongside their regular training. For example, a cook for the Royal Navy could also complete a chef Apprenticeship. Each organisation offers different schemes, so visit their websites for more details.

Salary: Starting around £13,400 the first year, with excellent benefits and progression. Qualifications: The armed forces offer Apprenticeships in many areas, including Engineering, Fitting, Maintenance, Cookery, IT, Admin, Marine Engineering and more.

Business & Finance This sector is about money – saving it, borrowing it, managing it and most of all, making lots more of it. It’s the UK’s most global industry and covers a wide range of services and products that everyone uses like bank accounts, mortgages, pensions, credit cards and insurance. The perk of working with money is that salaries tend to be higher than average.

Job roles: Accounts assistant, payroll assistant, admin assistant, bank cashier, trainee accountant. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £20,000. Qualifications: Apprenticeships inBusiness&AdminandFinancialServices; A-level Traineeships; Foundation Degrees.

ConstructionIts more than just bricks and mortar. The construction industry is worth billions and builds the world around us, from hospitals and houses to bridges and football stadiums. One of the most popular ways into this career is the Construction Apprenticeship Scheme, which takes two years for a Level 2 award, and one more year for the Level 3 qualification. To apply, you’ll need to have found an employer that will sponsor you.

Job roles: Bricklayer, labourer, joiner, painter and decorator, plasterer.Salary: Apprentices can expect to earn around £8,700 the first year, £11,600 the next, and £15,350 the third year.Qualifications: Construction Apprenticeships; Foundation Degrees.

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

Job roles: Graphic designer, web designer, production assistant, editing assistant, photographer assistant. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £17,000. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Creative and Digital Media; Foundation Degrees from Creative Writing to Animation.

Careers Insight

38

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 39: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Customer Service & AdminAny business that wants to be successful has to make its customers happy. From helping a shopper find the right size at Topshop to answering customer queries at a BT call centre, customer service jobs come in all shapes and sizes. Another thing businesses can’t function without is effective admin. Administrators are responsible for running the daily operations of the office. They answer the phone, input data, type up letters and anything else that needs to be done. Since administration and customer service are needed in most organisations, you could work across many different sectors.

Job roles: Admin assistant, office junior, personal assistant, customer service representative.Salary: Starting anywhere between £13,000 and £18,000 per year.Qualifications: Apprenticeships in CustomerServiceandBusiness&Admin; Foundation Degree in Customer Service Management.

Food & Drink Food and drink is one of the largest industries in the UK – in fact, it even helped pull the country out of the recession. This sector is about taking what’s grown by farmers and transforming it into our favourite foods and beverages. It takes a lot of people working together to make this happen, which means loads of career paths on offer. You could be processing ingredients, fixing machines on the production floor, processing meat, baking cakes or testing quality.

Job roles: Production operative, bottling operative, baker, warehouse worker. Salary: Starting between £11,000 and £17,000 a year. Qualifications: Food Manufacture Apprenticeships; Foundation Degree in Food&DrinkManagement.

Health & Social Care If you’ve got a big heart and want to work with people, then a career in Health and Social Care could be for you. This sector is about helping people live healthy, full lives. Health care covers careers in medicine (nurses, physiotherapists, dental nurses, etc) while social care is about supporting people with special needs. Most people in this sector work for the NHS while the rest are employed by private practices. Because healthcare is an essential part of our society, there’ll always be jobs on offer for qualified people. In fact, this is one sector that continues to thrive during recessions.

Job roles: Care assistant, nursing assistant, dental nurse, porter. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships and Foundation degrees in Health and Social Care.

Hair & Beauty This industry is all about helping people look good and feel better about themselves. It’s a booming sector that makes billions each year. There are many different paths within this sector – hairdressing, nail services, beauty therapy, spa therapy – and all of them require common skills: creativity, the ability to work on your feet for long hours, good hand-eye co-ordination and up-to-date knowledge of what’s in (and what’s out). Job roles: Hairdresser, spa therapist, beauty therapist, aromatherapist Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships from Hairdressing to Beauty Therapy; Foundation Degree in Salon Management.

IT & Telecoms From mobile phones and satellite TV tobroadbandandfibreoptics,IT&Telecoms are a major part of life – it helps us keep in touch with our friends, stay entertained, conduct business and more. The IT side of things is all about computers and information systems – designing them, developing them, making them, selling them and installing them. Telecoms is a broad term for any technology that transmits information, like phone lines, broadband, TV, mobile phones and satellites. This industry includes internet suppliers, mobile phone companies and the big companies like BT and SKY.

Job roles: IT trainer, helpdesk assistant, telecoms technician, customer service representative. Salary: Starting £16,000 - £20,000 for IT and £12,000 - £15,000 for Telecoms. Qualifications: IT Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees.

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

Job roles: Production and process engineers, technicians, maintenance engineers, welders and machine setters. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £18,000 a year. Qualifications: Manufacturing Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees.

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

39

Careers Insight

Page 40: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

What’s so special about our land-based courses?• Excellentstate-of-the-artresources–includingabrand

newmilkingparlour,200hectarefarm,purposebuiltanimalcentrewithdoggroomingsalon,BHSapprovedequestriancentre,beautifulwalledgardensandbotanicalglasshouse,activitycentrewithhighandlowropechallenges,ninehole,18teegolfcourse–andmuch,muchmore!

• Widerangeofcourses-full-timeandpart-time,includingApprenticeshipandFoundationDegreeprogrammes.Subjectsinclude:Agriculture,AnimalCareandManagement,Arboriculture,EquineStudies,Countryside,FishHusbandryandFisheriesManagement,Floristry,Game&WildlifeManagement,Horticulture,LandscapeDesign,SportsTurfManagementandVeterinaryNursing.

• Excitingrangeofstudentprojectsandactivities–residentialtripsathomeoroverseas,opportunitiestosupportindustryshowsandevents,workplacements,thechancetojoinsportingteams,socialactivitiesandourownYoungFarmers’Club.

• Fantasticcareeropportunities–highlyskilled,wellqualifiedworkersareindemandandwehaveagoodtrackrecordof

studentsenteringrelevantemploymentasaresultoftheirstudies.

• Stronglinkswithindustry–eachsubjectareaworkswithemployerstofacilitateworkplacements,enableguestlecturesandindustryvisitsandhelpensurecoursecontentmeetslocalemployers’needs.

• Accommodationavailableonsiteforages16+-idealifyoulivefurtherawayorifyoustudyacoursewhichincludesout-of-hoursduties.

Why do over 4000 young people enrol at Bridgwater College each year?• Awardwinningreputation–weareaBeaconCollege,with

11nationalBeaconAwards.

• Outstandinginspection–ourlastfullOfstedinspectionawardedusfiveoutstandinggrade1sandthedesignationan‘OutstandingCollege’.

• Impressiveresults–examandcourseworkpassratesarealwayswellabovethenationalaverages.

• Bestchoiceofsubjects–weofferover40ASlevelsubjects,theInternationalBaccalaureateDiploma,plusover100vocationalprogrammesandapprenticeships.

• Experiencedstaff–whoareexpertsintheirareas,usuallywithexperienceofworkinginindustry.Severalaretextbookauthorsorexaminersfornationalexaminationboards.

• Excitingstudentlife–withnewfriends,extra-curricularprogramme,activeStudentUnionandagreatcalendarofsocialevents!

Come AND meeT USTuesday 18 october 2011, 5.30pm - 8.30pmWednesday 18 January 2012, 6.30pm – 8.30pmFollow us on Facebook or Twitter for regular updates, news and events.

Come AND meeT USSaturday 12 November 2011, 10am - 12.30pmSaturday 28 January 2012, 10am – 12.30pmFollow us on Facebook or Twitter for regular updates, news and events.

01278 441234 www.bridgwater.ac.uk

Regional Trg Prosp_Sept2011.indd 1 01/07/2011 14:19

Page 41: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

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

Public Services In this sector, your work could help other people and improve your local community. Public services are an essential part of our society – education, housing, the police, and the fire service are all services that the government provides for its citizens (that’s you and us). In this sector, you could help organise a community arts programme, work for a housing association or support a teacher in the classroom. Your local council is a large employer in this sector. Contact them directly for job vacancies.

Job roles: Classroom assistant, nursery nurse, admin assistant, youth support worker. Salary: Starting between £13,000 and £16,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees in Public Services.

RetailRetail is about the sale of products and services to consumers (that’s people like you walking around the shops). It covers high street shops, supermarkets, independent shops, large national chains and more. It’s also one of the most fun and young industries out there, with more than one third of the workforce under 25 years old. Whether your strengths are creativity or organisation, there’s a role for you in Retail. The main areas are: store operations, buying, visual merchandising, and management.

Job roles: Sales assistant, visual merchandiser, team leader, buyer.Salary: Starting between £12,000 and £18,000 per year.Qualifications: Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees in Retailing, Employer sponsored traineeships.

Sport & Fitness Many people think the only way you can get a career in sport is to become a professional athlete or a PE teacher – but this couldn’t be further from the truth. This sector is about promoting health and fitness. For example, exercise and fitness instructors work for gyms and leisure centres and help people stay fit and healthy. Sports coaches teach skills and techniques at all levels, from beginner to professional. Outdoor activity instructors help people enjoy themselves in the great outdoors and operations managers make sure gyms and leisure centres run smoothly.

Job roles: Personal trainer, fitness instructor, swimming coach, leisure centre assistant, playworker. Salary: Starting around £12,000 and can rise to £25,000 with experience and qualifications. Qualifications: Apprenticeships in Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching; Foundation Degree in Playworking.

Transport & Logistics This sector deals with all sorts of vehicles and their different purposes – the cars and motorcycles we drive, the lorries that transport goods, the trains and buses that travel across the country, even the aeroplanes that arrive and depart from our airports. All of these vehicles require skilled mechanics to keep them running, drivers to operate them safely, and organised people behind the scenes keeping everything to schedule. Many jobs involve manual and mechanical skills, however many roles deal with the public, so people skills are important too.

Job roles: Vehicle technician, bodywork repairer, rail engineering technician, lorry driver, baggage handler. Salary: Starting between £12,000 and £17,000 a year. Qualifications: Apprenticeships and Foundation Degrees.

What’s so special about our land-based courses?• Excellentstate-of-the-artresources–includingabrand

newmilkingparlour,200hectarefarm,purposebuiltanimalcentrewithdoggroomingsalon,BHSapprovedequestriancentre,beautifulwalledgardensandbotanicalglasshouse,activitycentrewithhighandlowropechallenges,ninehole,18teegolfcourse–andmuch,muchmore!

• Widerangeofcourses-full-timeandpart-time,includingApprenticeshipandFoundationDegreeprogrammes.Subjectsinclude:Agriculture,AnimalCareandManagement,Arboriculture,EquineStudies,Countryside,FishHusbandryandFisheriesManagement,Floristry,Game&WildlifeManagement,Horticulture,LandscapeDesign,SportsTurfManagementandVeterinaryNursing.

• Excitingrangeofstudentprojectsandactivities–residentialtripsathomeoroverseas,opportunitiestosupportindustryshowsandevents,workplacements,thechancetojoinsportingteams,socialactivitiesandourownYoungFarmers’Club.

• Fantasticcareeropportunities–highlyskilled,wellqualifiedworkersareindemandandwehaveagoodtrackrecordof

studentsenteringrelevantemploymentasaresultoftheirstudies.

• Stronglinkswithindustry–eachsubjectareaworkswithemployerstofacilitateworkplacements,enableguestlecturesandindustryvisitsandhelpensurecoursecontentmeetslocalemployers’needs.

• Accommodationavailableonsiteforages16+-idealifyoulivefurtherawayorifyoustudyacoursewhichincludesout-of-hoursduties.

Why do over 4000 young people enrol at Bridgwater College each year?• Awardwinningreputation–weareaBeaconCollege,with

11nationalBeaconAwards.

• Outstandinginspection–ourlastfullOfstedinspectionawardedusfiveoutstandinggrade1sandthedesignationan‘OutstandingCollege’.

• Impressiveresults–examandcourseworkpassratesarealwayswellabovethenationalaverages.

• Bestchoiceofsubjects–weofferover40ASlevelsubjects,theInternationalBaccalaureateDiploma,plusover100vocationalprogrammesandapprenticeships.

• Experiencedstaff–whoareexpertsintheirareas,usuallywithexperienceofworkinginindustry.Severalaretextbookauthorsorexaminersfornationalexaminationboards.

• Excitingstudentlife–withnewfriends,extra-curricularprogramme,activeStudentUnionandagreatcalendarofsocialevents!

Come AND meeT USTuesday 18 october 2011, 5.30pm - 8.30pmWednesday 18 January 2012, 6.30pm – 8.30pmFollow us on Facebook or Twitter for regular updates, news and events.

Come AND meeT USSaturday 12 November 2011, 10am - 12.30pmSaturday 28 January 2012, 10am – 12.30pmFollow us on Facebook or Twitter for regular updates, news and events.

01278 441234 www.bridgwater.ac.uk

Regional Trg Prosp_Sept2011.indd 1 01/07/2011 14:19

41

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

41

Careers Insight

Page 42: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

You have skills. Use them wisely.The South West Apprenticeship Company needs talented people like you to fill Apprenticeship vacancies in all types of job industries.

Find Apprenticeships in Business Admin, IT, Hospitality, Engineering and more!

Go to www.theswac.org.uk

Page 43: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

The South West has the

second largest Creative

Industries sector outside

London

Huge opportunities

in the tourism sector

Home to 4 world

heritage sites, including

Stonehenge

Home to Lucozade, New look and the National

Trust

SPOTLIGHT ON THE SOUTH WEST

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

43

Useful Stuff

Page 44: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Cornwall

Devon

Bristol and Bath

Bristol: As a major seaport Bristol has a long history of trading, but in the

modern day the city’s economy is built on the aerospace industry, defence,

the media, information technology and financial services sectors, and tourism.

Easily commutable from neighboring areas, such as Gloucester, Somerset

and Bath, the size of Bristol means it ranks as one of the top cities for

opportunities in the UK. The financial services sector employs 59,000 people

(second only to London in the South) and the 9 million visitors each year

means it has a booming tourism industry.

Bath: Bath’s principle industry is tourism. As a recognized world heritage

site, most famous for its Roman Bath’s, the picturesque city offers

employment opportunities from open top bus tours to spas and hotels.

Other big employers in Bath include the NHS and the local council, and

there are higher education opportunities available with two Universities.

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

DevonDevon’s vast expanses mean there has always been a large agricultural sector,

and though harmed by the foot and mouth crisis it’s still a large employer.

Interestingly sectors that don’t rely too much on a prime location are on the

increase due to the more remote location of the county and the attractive lifestyle

that it brings. Employment in the financial services sector, particularly in Dartmoor,

has been on the rise for these reasons.

Devon, specifically Exeter, is now home to the Met Office, the guys responsible

for forecasting the national and international weather; they might not always get it

right, but they do provide career opportunities for many Devon residents. Plymouth

is Devon’s other big city and traditionally has lots of maritime employment

opportunities as well as being the head office location for Air Sourthwest.

Like much of the South West, Devon relies a lot on its tourism industry to

provide employment. The county is home to two national parks, part of the

‘dinosaur’ coast and world heritage sites as well as the obviously attractive

coastline and seaside towns. As well as world famous Ambrosia custard. These

attractions provide plenty of jobs in various areas of tourism, including customer

service and retail. Key Sectors: Tourism, Financial Services, Private and Public Services

Key Employers: The Met Office, Devon County Council, Ambrosia

14-19 prospectus: www.options4me.co.uk/

CornwallThough Cornwall isn’t home to a big city, it still offers

a variety of career opportunities. The biggest industry

at the moment is Tourism; the area brings in 5 million

tourists every year, mainly British holidaymakers.

Cornwall’s attractive coastline, historic sites and

country gardens bring lots of people in, during the

summer months, to sample some traditional Cornish

ice cream. The county’s biggest attraction in terms

of volume of visitors is the Eden Project which was

opened in 2001 and attracts visitors from around the

world.Though tourism is the county’s main earner

and employer, it also has a number of smaller

primary industries including fishing, agriculture and

mining, mainly of tin and copper. Cornwall’s fastest

growing sector is probably its creative sector, which

includes various areas ranging from architecture and

photography to all sorts of types of design including

packaging, web and graphic.

Key Sectors: Tourism, Creative, Agriculture, Private

and Public Services

Key Employers: Eden Project, Visit Cornwall,

Cornwall Council, Ginsters

14-19 prospectus: cornwall.futures4me.co.uk/

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

YOUR REGION

Wiltshire

Gloucestershire

Dorset

Somerset

WELCOME TO THE SOUTH WEST

Bristol and Bath

Useful Stuff

44

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 45: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

SomersetSomerset has a booming tourism industry. It is

home to Cheddar Gorge, various attractive coastal

towns, part of the Exmoor National Park and the

West Somerset Railway. Perhaps most famously,

it hosts Glastonbury, the world’s largest Greenfield

music and performing arts festival. All of these

attractions bring a lot of money, and in turn jobs

to the county. With so much green space it’s no

surprise there are also lots of opportunities in

traditional agriculture and the land-based sector.

Aside from Glastonbury, another big thing

Somerset is known for is its cider. The county

houses brands including Blackthorn, Burrow Hill

and Thatchers among others. They also dabble

in some dairy production; Yeo Valley Organic and

various cheese manufacturers are based here too.

Traditionally, the county has been a big supplier

of stone and aggregates, which they still do.

Somerset is home to several quarries and Europe’s

key supplier of limestone.

Key Sectors: Tourism, Food and Drink

Key Employers: The Royal Marines, Dairycrest,

Yeo Valley Organic14-19 prospectus: www.six.somerset.gov.uk/

DorsetNext year Dorset will be on the world stage, when it

hosts the sailing event for the 2012 Olympics. This will

add to its already large and growing tourism industry

which brings in around 3-4 million tourists a year,

mainly to its beautiful coastline, and provides 37,500

jobs; 65% of these jobs are on the coastline, so if it’s

a career in tourism you want, the coast is the place to

be. One of the major attractions is the Jurassic Coast

World Heritage Site, home to a lot of dinosaur fossils

and almost as many employment opportunities

Another large employer for the county is the West

Dorset General Hospitals NHS Trust which employs

about 2,500 people in various different areas of the

health sector. More centrally to Dorset’s largest city,

Bournemouth, there is a booming trade in business

tourism. With plenty of internet access since becoming

Britain’s first ‘Fibrecity’ in 2008 Bournemouth has been

a key venue for big business delegates. Visitors include

names like JP Morgan, Lloyds TSB and Fitness First.

Key Sectors: Tourism, Health

Key Employers: Unisys Insurance Services, Merlin

Entertainments, West Dorset General Hospitals NHS

Trust14-19 prospectus: www.lookingahead.info/

GloucestershireThe aerospace industry has always been a big employer in Gloucestershire, in fact 11,000 people work in aerospace related jobs. These job roles can vary from designing Airbus wings to manufacturing military jet engines. Gloucestershire doesn’t just manufacture aeroplane parts though; it has plenty of jobs in electronics, packaging and motor vehicle component manufacture. The county also has great educational and training prospects for school leavers; over 80% of its 16-18 year olds are on a further education course or in training.

It’s not just a choice between education and manufacture though. There are even opportunities for budding James Bonds too; Gloucestershire is home to a Ministry of Defence Headquarters that employs 7,000 people.

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

Key Sectors: Manufacture and Engineering, Public Services, Health, Telecommunications Key Employers: Ministry of Defence, Airbus UK, Kraft Foods, Endsleigh Insurance, Orange14-19 prospectus: www.movingupgloucestershire.com

WiltshireWiltshire offers a wide range of employment opportunities. Agriculture is on the rise in Wiltshire, and there is also a big emphasis on food and drink as the county produces award winning competitors in the ‘Taste of the West’ Food and Drink Awards. The county has a particularly strong presence in the production of bakery, snack, confectionary and meat products.

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

This county is also home to a fair few beauty spots, the Cotswolds, West Wiltshire Downs and North Wessex Downs, these areas of outstanding natural beauty bring in plenty of tourism, which provides nearly 20,000 jobs. Key Sectors: Agriculture, Food and Drink, Manufacturing, Tourism Key Employers: Virgin Mobile, Dyson, Honda14-19 prospectus: swinwilts.futures4me.co.uk

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

45

Useful Stuff

Page 46: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

16-24?Want to start earning a wage

and get a qualifi cation at the

same time? This training programme has been a great opportunity to build on my skills and expertise and really

put into practice everything I’ve learnt.

BDM

OPEN

DO

OR

S 11/12

Get in touch TODAY

FREEPHONE 0800 783 2545

WEBSITEparagonskills.co.uk

Apprenticeships available…• AAT Acountancy • Beauty Therapy • Business & Administration

• Childcare • Customer Service • Distribution & Warehousing • Engineering & Technology • Hairdressing & Barbering

• Health and Social Care• Hospitality & Catering • Marine • Motor Vehicle • Retail

I’ve learnt.I’ve learnt.

Apprenticeships available…

With an Apprenticeship you will be learning in the workplace where all of your training will take place, AND

earning a wage at the same time.

Earn while you LEARN!

Page 47: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Bristol accounts for ¼ of the whole region’s economy

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

As you’d expect from a region where no place is

more than than 40 miles from the sea, South West

England leads the world in marine research

Wholesale trade and

retail is the largest

employer in the region

Tourism plays a key role

in the region, especially

for Devon and Cornwall

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

The South West is well above the national

average for people in employment and training

South West England is home to the largest microelectronics sector in Europe

0 5 10 15 20

Other service activities

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Human health and social work activities

Education

Public administration and defence

Administrative and support service activities

Professional, scientific and technical activities

Real estate activities

Financial and insurance activities

Information and communication

Accommodation and food service activities

Transportation and storage

Wholesale and retail trade; repair of vehicles

Construction

Water supply; sewerage, waste management

Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning

Manufacturing

Mining and quarrying

Agriculture, forestry and fishing

% OF SOUTH WEST WORKFORCE IN EACH INDUSTRY

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk Useful Stuff

47

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

IN THE SOUTH WEST...

Page 48: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4
Page 49: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4
Page 50: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

What made you become an Electrician?I always wanted to work with my hands. My friends and family suggested a trade. I picked electrical and never looked back.

How did you hear about competitions? Bridgwater College suggested that they want somebody to do it so I came forward and thought it was a brilliant opportunity to make something of myself.

What are your biggest personal achievements so far?Achieving and passing my Apprenticeship and becoming the UK gold winner. I also achieved first place in the Advanced Apprenticeship Awards for the South West and Bridgwater College Apprentice of the Year.

What’s your ambition?To learn new skills, strive for excellence and represent my country at WorldSkills.

What are you hoping for by competing for a place at WorldSkills London 2011? I am hoping to work away, compete against

the best and feel great about myself. I want to improve my skills to the very best.

What do your family and friends think about you competing?They are overwhelmed and with me every step of the way, pushing me to the top.

What would you say to other young people considering a vocational career?Don’t knock it till you try it – you may even become the UK’s best or the world’s best at your trade.

What do you think getting involved in international competitions could do for your career?It will unlock once in a lifetime opportunities and help make the impossible, possible.

Something we didn’t know about you...I spend too much time splashing the cash without realising – I am a spendaholic.

Local apprentice, Christopher Young from Stretcholt, Somerset was selected to represent Team UK in Electrical Installations at WorldSkills London 2011. He spoke to us about his Apprenticeship and competing in WorldSkills.

To find out more about Team UK, please visit www.worldskillsteamuk.org

Skills Competitions are managed by the National Apprenticeship Service.

Christopher Young DOB 20/10/1989

Hometown Stretcholt

School East Bridgwater Community School

College Bridgwater College

Employer Rogers Restorations Electrical

Qualifications Completed Apprenticeship in 2009 in: 2330 Level 3 AM2, 2391 testing and inspecting, 2357 PAT testing qualification, GCSEs

Competed in WorldSkills UK Electrical Installations (SkillElectric, part of Skill M&E) 2009, Gold medal winner.

Premier training and development Partner, Squad and Team UK

Premier supporter of Squad and Team UK and sponsor of WorldSkills, UK Alumni

WorldSkills London 2011 will be the world’s largest international skills competition. Young people from across the globe will compete to show they are the best of the best in their skill.

Representing the UK at WorldSkills London 2011 are 43 skilled young people aged 18-24 who will compete in 37 skills ranging from Mobile Robotics to Landscape Gardening, and from Cooking to Bricklaying. 86 of the UK’s best students, apprentices and employees aged 18-25 battled it out over 4 days of competition for a chance of a place in Team UK.

Over 50% of Team UK members are current or former apprentices and many are already winners of the WorldSkills UK national skills competitions.

At a time when you’re making decisions about starting work or training, the WorldSkills 2011 competition shows that Apprenticeships and vocational training can lead to exciting opportunities, as well as worthwhile and fulfilling careers.

As employees, apprentices work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills, and real workplace experience. At the same time, they also receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications. Perhaps best of all, since apprentices are employed, they receive a wage and benefit from paid holidays whilst they’re learning their trade.

You can enhance your Apprenticeship by taking part in WorldSkills UK national skills competitions. Run annually in over 50 different skills, these competitions allow apprentices to test their skills against the best in the UK. To find out how to enter, please visit www.worldskillsuk.org

So why not visit WorldSkills London 2011? The competition is taking place from 5 - 8 October at the ExCeL centre, and if you come along you’ll have the chance to cheer on Team UK, try a skill as part of our Have a Go campaign and get impartial information, advice and guidance about Apprenticeships and much more, from on-hand careers advisors. There will also be the opportunity to find out how you can enter WorldSkills UK competitions. To find out how to visit, please go to www.worldskillslondon2011.com

A world of opportunities...

Page 51: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

What made you become an Electrician?I always wanted to work with my hands. My friends and family suggested a trade. I picked electrical and never looked back.

How did you hear about competitions? Bridgwater College suggested that they want somebody to do it so I came forward and thought it was a brilliant opportunity to make something of myself.

What are your biggest personal achievements so far?Achieving and passing my Apprenticeship and becoming the UK gold winner. I also achieved first place in the Advanced Apprenticeship Awards for the South West and Bridgwater College Apprentice of the Year.

What’s your ambition?To learn new skills, strive for excellence and represent my country at WorldSkills.

What are you hoping for by competing for a place at WorldSkills London 2011? I am hoping to work away, compete against

the best and feel great about myself. I want to improve my skills to the very best.

What do your family and friends think about you competing?They are overwhelmed and with me every step of the way, pushing me to the top.

What would you say to other young people considering a vocational career?Don’t knock it till you try it – you may even become the UK’s best or the world’s best at your trade.

What do you think getting involved in international competitions could do for your career?It will unlock once in a lifetime opportunities and help make the impossible, possible.

Something we didn’t know about you...I spend too much time splashing the cash without realising – I am a spendaholic.

Local apprentice, Christopher Young from Stretcholt, Somerset was selected to represent Team UK in Electrical Installations at WorldSkills London 2011. He spoke to us about his Apprenticeship and competing in WorldSkills.

To find out more about Team UK, please visit www.worldskillsteamuk.org

Skills Competitions are managed by the National Apprenticeship Service.

Christopher Young DOB 20/10/1989

Hometown Stretcholt

School East Bridgwater Community School

College Bridgwater College

Employer Rogers Restorations Electrical

Qualifications Completed Apprenticeship in 2009 in: 2330 Level 3 AM2, 2391 testing and inspecting, 2357 PAT testing qualification, GCSEs

Competed in WorldSkills UK Electrical Installations (SkillElectric, part of Skill M&E) 2009, Gold medal winner.

Premier training and development Partner, Squad and Team UK

Premier supporter of Squad and Team UK and sponsor of WorldSkills, UK Alumni

WorldSkills London 2011 will be the world’s largest international skills competition. Young people from across the globe will compete to show they are the best of the best in their skill.

Representing the UK at WorldSkills London 2011 are 43 skilled young people aged 18-24 who will compete in 37 skills ranging from Mobile Robotics to Landscape Gardening, and from Cooking to Bricklaying. 86 of the UK’s best students, apprentices and employees aged 18-25 battled it out over 4 days of competition for a chance of a place in Team UK.

Over 50% of Team UK members are current or former apprentices and many are already winners of the WorldSkills UK national skills competitions.

At a time when you’re making decisions about starting work or training, the WorldSkills 2011 competition shows that Apprenticeships and vocational training can lead to exciting opportunities, as well as worthwhile and fulfilling careers.

As employees, apprentices work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills, and real workplace experience. At the same time, they also receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications. Perhaps best of all, since apprentices are employed, they receive a wage and benefit from paid holidays whilst they’re learning their trade.

You can enhance your Apprenticeship by taking part in WorldSkills UK national skills competitions. Run annually in over 50 different skills, these competitions allow apprentices to test their skills against the best in the UK. To find out how to enter, please visit www.worldskillsuk.org

So why not visit WorldSkills London 2011? The competition is taking place from 5 - 8 October at the ExCeL centre, and if you come along you’ll have the chance to cheer on Team UK, try a skill as part of our Have a Go campaign and get impartial information, advice and guidance about Apprenticeships and much more, from on-hand careers advisors. There will also be the opportunity to find out how you can enter WorldSkills UK competitions. To find out how to visit, please go to www.worldskillslondon2011.com

A world of opportunities...

Page 52: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

USEFUL LINKSDIRECTORY

DORSET

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

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

Weymouth College www.weymouth.ac.uk 01305 761100

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

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

Hartpury College www.hartpury.ac.uk 01452 702345

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

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

Stroud College www.stroudcol.ac.uk 01453 763424

SOMERSET

Bridgwater College www.bridgwater.ac.uk 01278 455464

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

ONLINE 14-19 PROSPECTUSES

Bath & North East Somersetwww.futurefinder.org.uk

Bournemouthwww.lookingahead.info

Cornwallcornwall.futures4me.co.uk

Bristol Citywww.futurefinder.org.uk

Devonwww.options4me.co.uk

Dorsetwww.lookingahead.info

Isles of scillycornwall.futures4me.co.uk

North Somersetwww.futurefinder.org.uk

Plymouthwww.findacourse4me.co.uk

Poolewww.lookingahead.info

South Gloucestershirewww.futurefinder.org.uk

Torbaywww.options4me.co.uk

Wiltshireswinwilts.futures4me.co.uk

COLLEGES

BRISTOL

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

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

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

CORNWALL

Cornwall College www.cornwall.ac.uk 0845 2232567

Duchy Collegewww.cornwall.ac.uk/duchy01209 722100

Truro and Penwith College www.truro-penwith.ac.uk01872 267000

DEVON

Bicton College www.bicton.ac.uk 01395 562400

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

Exeter College www.exe-coll.ac.uk 0845 111 6000Petroc www.petroc.ac.uk01271 345291

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

South Devon College www.southdevon.ac.uk08000 380123

Useful Stuff

52

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 53: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Norton Radstock College www.nortcoll.ac.uk 01761 433161

Richard Huish College www.richuish.ac.uk 01823 320800

Somerset College www.somerset.ac.uk 01823 366331

Strode College www.strode-college.ac.uk 01458 844400

Weston College www.weston.ac.uk 01934 411411

Yeovil College www.yeovil.ac.uk01935 423921

WILTSHIRE

Cirencester College www.cirencester.ac.uk 01285 640994

New College Swindon www.newcollege.ac.uk 01793 611470

Swindon College www.swindon-college.ac.uk 0800 7312250

Wiltshire College www.wiltshire.ac.uk 01225 35 00 35

LOCAL COUNCILS

Bath and North East Somerset Councilwww.bathnes.gov.uk

Bristol City Councilwww.bristol.gov.uk

Borough of Poole Councilwww.boroughofpoole.com

Bournemouth Borough Councilwww.bournemouth.gov.uk

Cheltenham Borough Councilwww.cheltenham.gov.uk

Christchurch Borough Councilwww.dorsetforyou.com Christchurch

Cornwall Councilwww.cornwall.gov.uk

Cotswold District Councilwww.cotswold.gov.uk

Devon County Councilwww.devon.gov.uk

Dorset County Councilwww.dorsetforyou.com county

East Devon District Councilwww.eastdevon.gov.uk

East Dorset District Councilwww.dorsetforyou.com east

Forest of Dean District Councilwww.fdean.gov.uk

Gloucester City Councilwww.gloucester.gov.uk

Gloucestershire County Councilwww.gloucestershire.gov.uk

Mendip District Councilwww.mendip.gov.uk

Mid Devon District Councilwww.middevon.gov.uk

North Devon Councilwww.northdevon.gov.uk

North Dorset District Councilwww.dorsetforyou.com

North Somerset District Councilwww.n-somerset.gov.uk

Plymouth City Councilwww.plymouth.gov.uk

Purbeck District Councilwww.dorsetforyou.com purbeck

Sedgemoor District Councilwww.sedgemoor.gov.uk

Somerset County Councilwww.somerset.gov.uk

South Gloucestershire Councilwww.southglos.gov.uk

South Hams District Councilwww.southhams.gov.uk

South Somerset District Councilwww.southsomerset.gov.uk

Stroud District Councilwww.stroud.gov.uk

Swindon Borough Councilwww.swindon.gov.uk

Taunton Deane Borough Councilwww.tauntondeane.gov.uk

Teignbridge District Councilwww.teignbridge.gov.uk

Tewkesbury Borough Councilwww.tewkesburybc.gov.uk

Torbay Councilwww.torbay.gov.uk

Torridge District Councilwww.torridge.gov.uk

West Devon Borough Councilwww.westdevon.gov.uk

West Dorset District Councilwww.dorsetforyou.com

West Somerset District Councilwww.westsomersetonline.gov.uk

Weymouth and Portland Borough Councilwww.weymouth.gov.uk

Wiltshire Councilwww.wiltshire.gov.uk

OTHER USEFUL SITES

Careers Advicewww.careersadvice.direct.gov.uk

Careers Boxwww.careersbox.co.uk

Jobcentre Pluswww.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

National Apprenticeship Servicewww.apprenticeships.org.uk

Skillwww.skill.org.uk

The South West Apprenticeship Companywww.theswac.org.uk

Work Experiencewww.work-experience.org

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

53

Useful Stuff

Page 54: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

STEP 3 FIND YOUR PROVIDER OR COLLEGEIt’s all very well you knowing what career you’re interested in, but

you need to know which providers near you can help you get the

qualifications you need. If you head to our ‘Links’ section you can see the

colleges, training providers and employers in your area who want you,

and see what courses they offer. We also link to your local councils and

14-19 prospectuses so if you need more help you can find it there too.

STEP 1 GET THE FREE NEWSLETTER

Make sure you sign up for our newsletter and we’ll keep you updated on

courses, training opportunities and more in your area. To sign up just click

on the pink box to the left of the regional home page, this means you won’t

miss a beat as whether a college in your area has a fantastic new course or

a major employer is looking for new apprentices to hire we’ll fire the details

direct to your inbox. Just leave it to us at Open Doors...

STEP 2 EXPLORE THE SITEThere’s a lot going on in your region and it’s hard to know where to start, but our ‘Careers’ section is the best place get going. This will give you an insight into the careers out there and how to get into them in your area. You can also check out the ‘News’ section for the most up to date information on everything from upcoming open days to providers with new vacancies. If you’re still undecided on what’s best for you head over to the ‘Stories’ section to see what young people who’ve actually been in your shoes have to say.

WWW.OPENDOORSMEDIA.CO.UKYou’ve reached the end of the magazine, but that’s not all we have to offer! We also have the best website out there for finding out about courses and training opportunities in your area, don’t take our word for it though, log on now and check it out...

Because we know you want the lowdown on opportunities where YOU live there is a unique site dedicated to your region, click on your area to get started.

There are a bazillion websites out there with out of date information on careers and training so the internet can be a confusing place if you’re looking for advice. At Open Doors we put all of the info you need in one place and point you in the direction of the other websites that can help too. Once you’re on the site there are 3 main steps to make sure you get the best information, it’s almost like having a virtual careers advisor!

We’re improving our site with swanky new features over the next few months so make sure to come back and have a look regularly. In the meantime check us out on facebook or twitter. You can find the links on the top of our website so come and say hello.... we won’t bite, honest!

Useful Stuff

54

www.opendoorsmedia.co.uk

Page 55: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Open Events

For MORE informationCall 0845 22 32 567 or visit www.cornwall.ac.uk

Thurs 20th October 2011 5pm - 7.30pm Sat 3rd December 2011 10am - 12pmThurs 2nd February 2012 5pm - 7.30pm Sat 3rd March 2012 10am - 12pm

Visit our campuses at Camborne, St Austell, Newquay, Saltash and Falmouth Marine School.

Cornwall College

Sat 19th November 2011 10am - 12pm Sat 21st January 2012 10am - 12pm Sat 10th March 2012 10am - 12pm

Visit our Duchy College campuses at Rosewarne and Stoke Climsland.

Find out about a wide range of options including: A-levels, Diplomas, Apprenticeships, Practical Skills Training and Degrees.

Page 56: SW Open Doors - iss1 v4

Applied ScienceApprenticeshipsBusiness & ITCare StudiesConstruction & Allied TradesDigital & Creative MediaEngineering & AutomotiveFoundation LearningHair & BeautyMusic & Performing ArtsSport & Public ServicesTourism & Hospitality

Vocational courses are work-related

qualifications which are designed to give

you the skills that employers are looking

for. Some BTEC qualifications can also

allow progression to university.

01305 761100 www.weymouth.ac.uk

www.facebook.com/weycol

Weymouth College, Cranford Avenue, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 7LQ

Choose a future

Please quote GA01 when contacting us.

Training Prospectus 12.8.11.indd 1 12/08/2011 10:19:41