Armed with their GCSE results, many young people will be reconsidering their options for the forthcoming year.  David Bassett, managing director of DCET Training, specialists in electrical installation apprenticeships based in Exeter, explains it’s still not too late to consider an apprenticeship.

With training providers and colleges offering over 180 different apprenticeships to choose from and with many employers currently reviewing their short term and long term recruitment plans it certainly isn’t too late to seek an employer offering an apprenticeship.

Taking up an apprenticeship is a way of combining both academic study and practical experience to achieve a nationally recognised qualification whilst earning a wage. Young people are able to train and learn at their own pace usually via day release from employment to attend a college or a specialist training provider such as us. The length of an apprenticeship varies according to the qualification, with an average 42 months for an electrotechnical advanced apprenticeship.

Apprentices earn a wage from their employer and the training fees are paid by The Learning & Skills Council. So, unlike attending University an apprenticeship can be a financial viable alternative to train for a career.

No doubt many are concerned that with the current economic climate getting a job in any industry, let alone the construction industry, will either be very difficult or risky. It’s definitely harder, but most employers appreciate that developing skills in employees is still really important to ensure that when the recovery comes they have the skill base to be able to fulfil new contracts. Apprenticeships are also attracting more financial support. Last March, Gordon Brown announced an extra £140m of funding and there is a growing wave of support for the government to introduce financial support to assist employers taking on apprentices. So, now isn’t the time to be put off seeking an apprenticeship it might just take a little perseverance to find an employer.

With GCSE results in hand it is a good opportunity to assess your best subjects and what really interests you. In the electrotechnical sector we look for GCSE Grades A to C in Maths, English and Science. We also look for good practical and problem solving skills, not forgetting a head for heights and being prepared to work in all weathers! But each industry has different requirements, so it’s likely you can find an apprenticeship that suits your best qualities and attributes.

Taking an apprenticeship is a big decision both for a young person and their parents.  It’s really important for the young person to be certain which vocational path they want to follow and why! At the beginning, all apprentices need encouragement, reassurance and advice on entering the world of employment. Our tutors and training officers have extensive industrial experience and training knowledge to provide support for students and instil confidence and a belief in the individual. At DCET Training we offer young people and their parents the opportunity to visit us to understand what the training entails and what the industry is all about.

Once a decision has been made it’s time to do your research to identify suitable local employers. I suggest you start by talking with the Connexions service and also approach employers on your own. First write to them with a copy of your CV and tell them why you want an apprenticeship and why you want to do it with them. Don’t be afraid to follow them up with a call to check that they’ve received it and introduce yourself. If a position is available you may be called for aptitude or selection tests and an interview.

Undertaking an apprenticeship is a team approach between, the employer, the training provider, the apprentice and their family.  Once finished, our young people leave with a nationally recognised qualification and many career opportunities to follow within the electrical contracting industry. Over the 42 months we witness learners fulfilling their full potential and developing into skilled and confident young adults.

For information on a career in the Electrotechnical Industry contact DCET Training on 01392 829100 or visit www.dcet.co.uk.

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All media enquiries should be directed to Carolyn Daw at The Marketing-PR Company on 01822 833488  www.marketing-pr.co.uk

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