Get Ahead with our Courses for Young People! St Helens Chamber Course Guide 2017/18

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1 Get Ahead with our Courses for Young People! St Helens Chamber Course Guide 2017/18

2 Contents Page Welcome Why should you study with St Helens Chamber? Apprenticeships Fast Track to Apprenticeships Office Skills Hairdressing Childcare and Teaching Assistant Health and Social Care Construction Warehousing and Logistics Manufacturing Digital Marketing (New for 2017!) Interactive Media, Digital Marketing and Sales Graduate Hub Student Services Extra Support Contact Starting Point: Call: Visit:

3 Welcome to our Course Guide We are delighted to present our Course Guide. St Helens Chamber has a long tradition and excellent track record in helping young people into employment through our training programmes. Developing the right skills, attributes and experience is critical to a successful future and we know how to help you get there. Our training programmes can provide you with the skills and qualifications you need to progress from school, college or university towards your career. So no matter what qualifications you have, St Helens Chamber can help get you from where you are, to where you want to be. I hope you find this Course Guide useful and interesting. We look forward to welcoming you to study with St Helens Chamber and taking the first steps to a bright future. Kath Boullen, Chief Executive St Helens Chamber 1

4 Why should you study with St Helens Chamber? Studying with St Helens Chamber can help you gain the skills and qualifications you need to enter the workplace as a confident and capable individual. Perhaps the biggest benefit to studying with St Helens Chamber is that, in addition to providing you with the training you need, we can help you find a job or Apprenticeship when your course finishes. Our strong links with over 1000 local businesses mean that we have exclusive access to local vacancies at all levels from work experience to Apprenticeships and graduate positions. The training that we provide to school, college and university leavers is designed to get you ready for the world of work, and make you more attractive to employers. - I feel like I find the practical tasks enriching and I ve learned a lot more by being hands on than I would have done if I was learning from a book. Oliver Eddleston, Chalon Components - 2

5 Don t just take our word for it; St Helens Chamber was rated Good overall by Ofsted, and Outstanding in Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare. Ofsted works to ensure education and skills provision for young people is excellent and here s what they had to say about St Helens Chamber: The Apprenticeship programmes are particularly effective in developing learners self-confidence and skills in the workplace. The Chamber works closely with businesses to develop the curriculum to meet local employment needs. Trainees are able to make substantial progress and prepare well for their next steps. Many learners have made rapid progress into work placements where they work well and employers value their contribution in the workplace. The provider invests significantly in high-quality resources, including a construction training centre and the town centre based advice and careers guidance centre. Learners and Apprentices present themselves very well in the workplace, showing a mature understanding of how to dress and conduct themselves. 3

6 Apprenticeships What is an Apprenticeship? Apprenticeships are a great way for people to gain formal qualifications and develop the skills necessary for their chosen industry. You will earn while you learn and gain practical, transferable skills. As part of the course you ll gain Maths, English and ICT qualifications, if you need them, and qualifications relating to your area of study. We work closely with a wide range of local businesses and have access to numerous Apprenticeship vacancies. We are currently delivering Apprenticeships in: Business Administration Customer Service Retail Warehousing Information Technology Management and Team Leading Marketing Sales Logistics International Trade Manufacturing Business Improvement Techniques Health and Social Care Working with Children and Young People Early Years Educator Teaching Assistant Construction Facilities Management Hairdressing Digital Marketing (new for 2017!) 4

7 What are the qualifications? Once enrolled onto an Apprenticeship you will complete a qualification in a subject relevant to your job. This may be at level 2 (equivalent to five good GSCE passes) or level 3 (equivalent to two A levels), depending on your job role and existing qualifications. Level 4 and 5 Apprenticeships are available as you progress through your career and are equivalent to a higher education diploma or foundation degree. How do I apply? Depending on your circumstances, you may find it helpful to complete one of our Fast Track to Apprenticeships courses before starting an Apprenticeship. We have over 50 Apprenticeship vacancies available with local companies at any one time, in a wide range of job roles. Take a look at our website for details of current Apprenticeship vacancies. Contact us on to book onto one of our Open Days. We will provide all the information you need about Apprenticeships. - Abigail is completing a level 3 Apprenticeship in Business Admin, working at conveyancing search specialist Pali Warrington. She has used the skills acquired on her Apprenticeship in a highly skilled role. In 2016 she was shortlisted for an Apprentice of the Year award. - 5

8 Fast Track to Apprenticeships Our short courses of up to 11 weeks are designed to quickly equip you with the skills and experience you need to succeed in the workplace. Depending on your circumstances, we may recommend that you complete a Fast Track course with us before starting an Apprenticeship to make sure you are ready for work and know what to expect from the workplace. Our dedicated Career Coaches will work with you on a flexible basis, to ensure you have the skills that employers are looking for, including a professional CV and interview skills. As part of your course you will gain work experience for up to 7 weeks in a relevant role, which will give you real life experience and the edge over other candidates. During your course, St Helens Chamber will help you to progress onto an Apprenticeship by applying for a range of exclusive vacancies. We have strong relationships with local businesses, and all our courses have direct links to our exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies. Once you are ready, you will be invited to meet local employers at our Meet the Employer events providing a great opportunity to secure an Apprenticeship. In addition to industry experience and great progression opportunities, there are also a number of extras for our students including a free bus pass whilst you are on the course and 100 in shopping vouchers on successful completion. Additional financial support is available for eligible students and as part of this you will receive lunch vouchers and living expenses. Once you have successfully completed one of our courses, we will put you forward as Chamber Approved, giving you access to Apprenticeship vacancies with local businesses. Having Chamber Approved status means that we can let businesses know we have confidence in your ability to enter the workplace and in your skills in your chosen area. Because St Helens Chamber has such excellent relationships with local employers, this status means a lot and will enable you to secure a suitable Apprenticeship. As a Chamber Approved student, you ll be invited to our Meet the Employer events where you ll meet local businesses in an informal and relaxed environment. Employers will review your CV and suitability for the role, and conduct a first interview there and then fast tracking you into paid employment and an Apprenticeship. 6

9 St Helens Chamber is proud to offer courses in a wide range of areas. We currently offer: Office Skills Hairdressing Childcare and Teaching Assistant Health and Social Care Construction Warehousing and Logistics Manufacturing Digital Marketing (New for 2017!) 7

10 Office Skills Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship in an office environment. What will I study? You will develop essential skills for working in an office environment and gain a good understanding of the subject area. You will learn about data entry and how to professionally deal with telephone enquiries. Through this course, you will also become proficient in Microsoft Office programmes such as Excel spreadsheets and Word. You will be offered up to 7 weeks work experience with a local employer where you will put your skills into practice and be able to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in a business setting. You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Your training will take place at St Helens Chamber, where you will have access to our onsite facilities such as free Wi-Fi and the café. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. We start programmes every month and there s no set amount of time that they last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students on our courses can progress into a wide range of our exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies, including Customer Service, Business Administration, Marketing and Sales, and IT. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on clothes or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship within 3-4 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a variety of careers such as an Office Manager, Administrator or Sales Executive. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 8

11 Will Fairhurst, GPW Recruitment Apprentice Will is an asset to the team at GPW Recruitment Will Fairhurst first came to GPW Recruitment on work experience and now, through his Apprenticeship with St Helens Chamber, is a valuable member of the team. After discovering that college and University wasn t for him, he decided to pursue an Apprenticeship to get industry experience and gain qualifications. He explains: I was at college but I wasn t enjoying the education side of it like the exams and A levels. My Apprenticeship got me financially stable at an early stage and I love what I am doing now. It s been an added bonus getting a qualification at the same time. Will has completed his Level 2 qualification in ICT and has now progressed to Level 3. GPW Recruitment recently put him forward for an Apprentice of the Year award because of his hard work within the company. Gary Ward, Operations Director at GPW Recruitment said: He is always willing to try and learn new things and is a real asset to the team. He is a part of it now, he is relied upon in the company. We are proud of what he has achieved in a short space of time. 9

12 Hairdressing Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship in Hairdressing. What will I study? This course is designed as an introduction to a variety of areas within the Hairdressing profession. You will cover the key skills needed to progress onto an Apprenticeship. These include: City & Guilds Level 1 Award in Hairdressing Diary management Hairdressing techniques Hairdressing students will be able to select three subjects from a list of optional units, ensuring that you study techniques you are interested in, such as nail art, reception duties and photogenic make up. You will spend 4 weeks in our Hair Academy and 7 weeks with a suitably matched salon developing your skills. You will also have the opportunity to develop skills in presenting a professional image. You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Your training will take place at our dedicated Hair Academy, located above Starting Point in St Helens town centre. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. We start programmes every month and there s no set amount of time that they last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students can progress onto one of our Hairdressing Apprenticeship vacancies. On successful completion of the course you will receive a free hairdressing kit, worth over 100 for your new career, including a hairdryer, brushes, a tunic and range of styling accessories. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a career in a number of roles such as a Hair Stylist or Receptionist. You could also think about opening your own salon! For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 10

13 Jamie-Leigh Waterworth TLC Jamie-Leigh is a cut above the rest! Trainee Stylist Jamie-Leigh Waterworth is making waves at TLC Hair and Beauty in St Helens, having joined the team as a St Helens Chamber Apprentice in October. After completing a Health and Social Care qualification at college, Jamie-Leigh decided to follow her passion for hairdressing and enrolled at the Chamber Hair Academy to begin her training. Whilst carrying out her Fast Track course at the Chamber s dedicated training salon, Jamie-Leigh was job-matched with TLC and completed a four-week placement before being offered the position. As part of her Apprenticeship, Jamie-Leigh completes one day a week in the brand new Chamber Hair Academy, and four days a week at TLC Hair and Beauty. Jamie said: The best part about doing an Apprenticeship is that I get to learn on the job and get stuck in, rather than just watching someone demonstrate things to me. I love being able to practice blow-dries and foils and getting to interact with customers. I ve made lots of friends through the Chamber Hair Academy and everyone here at TLC has been really welcoming. I feel very comfortable here. 11

14 Childcare and Teaching Assistant Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship in the Childcare sector. What will I study? On this course you will develop a solid understanding of working in Childcare. You will undergo a series of short courses, which will help you develop the skills you need and make you more attractive to employers. These courses include: Level 2 Paediatric First Aid Level 2 Food Safety Safeguarding Children The role of a Childcare worker As part of the course, you will be offered up to 7 weeks work experience with a local employer where you will put your skills into practice. You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. We start programmes every month and there s no set amount of time that they last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students on this course can progress into one of our exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies in Childcare or as a Teaching Assistant. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on clothes or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship within 3-4 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a number of careers such as a Teaching Assistant, Youth Worker or Nursery Assistant. Your training will take place at St Helens Chamber, where you will have access to our onsite facilities such as free Wi-Fi and the café. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 12

15 Olivia McGilvray, Parish C of E Primary School Teaching Assistant Olivia wins Apprentice of the Year Award Olivia has recently completed a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Childcare, after progressing from our Fast Track to Apprenticeships course and is now continuing to work in the nursery at Parish C of E Primary School in St Helens. In 2016 she was nominated for and went on to win the Apprentice of the Year award, after beating off tough competition. Olivia said: I couldn t believe that I would get this far in the first place, never mind winning the award. I feel really proud of how far I have come. My Apprenticeship has been really good and I have felt like I ve learned a lot from it, especially since leaving school. If I hadn t been to the Chamber I wouldn t know half of what I know now. The Chamber was really flexible with my training, and I felt comfortable when I was learning. Michelle Highcock, Nursery Leader at Parish C of E Primary said: Olivia came to us at the end of her pre Apprenticeship course and she had done all her preparing for work training including Food Safety, First Aid and Safeguarding Training. 13

16 Health and Social Care Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship working in the Care sector. What will I study? On this course you will develop a solid understanding of working in Health and Social Care. You will undergo a series of short courses, which will help you develop the skills you need and make you more attractive to employers. These courses include: Level 2 First Aid Level 2 Food Safety Safeguarding adults The role of a Health and Social Care worker You will also have the opportunity to gain up to 7 weeks work experience with a local employer, where you can put your skills to the test. You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Your training will take place at St Helens Chamber, where you will have access to our onsite facilities such as free Wi-Fi and the café. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. Courses start regularly throughout the year. There s no set amount of time that the course will last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students on this course can progress into one of our exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies in Health and Social Care. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on clothes or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship, subject to passing a DBS check, within 6-9 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way for a career in a number of roles such as a Support Worker, Social Worker, Community Arts Worker and Care Assistant. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 14

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18 Construction Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship working in the Construction industry. What will I study? On this course you will develop a good base of knowledge, working hands on and learning the skills needed for a career in Construction. You will develop practical skills in joinery, plastering, painting and decorating. This course gives you the valuable skills you need to start a career on site and progress onto an Apprenticeship. These include: Level 1 Health and Safety from the British Safety Council CSCS Site Operative card, required to work on construction sites You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Most of your training will take place at St Helens Chamber s Construction Training Centre in Parr. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. We start programmes every month and there s no set amount of time that they last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students on our practical courses can progress into one of our Apprenticeship vacancies in Construction. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on tools or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship within 3-4 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a career in a number of roles such as a Carpenter or Painter and Decorator. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 16

19 Warehousing and Logistics Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship working in Warehousing and Logistics. What will I study? On this course you will develop a good base of knowledge, working hands on and learning the skills needed for a career in Warehousing and Logistics. You will learn about Warehousing Operations and study in detail, the logistics of moving goods in and out of the warehouse. On this course you will also develop a good understanding of team work and communication. Students on this course will also learn professional customer service and customer care skills. This short course will give you the valuable skills and qualifications you need to progress to an Apprenticeship These include: Level 1 Health and Safety from the British Safety Council Warehouse and storage principles CSCS Site Operative card, required to work on most sites You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Most of your training will take place at St Helens Chamber s Construction Training Centre in Parr. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. There s no set amount of time that the course will last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students on our Warehousing and Logistics course can progress onto an Apprenticeship in Warehousing. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on clothes or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship within 3-4 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a career in a number of roles such as Logistics Manager or Warehouse Operative. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 17

20 Manufacturing Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship working in the Manufacturing sector. What will I study? On this course you will develop the manufacturing skills you will need to begin your career in a manufacturing environment. During the course, students will make a timber product and will plan, design and carry out the work to manufacture their chosen product. Manufacturing students will gain industry recognised qualifications. These include: Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment from the British Safety Council CSCS Site Operative card, required to work on most sites Level 1 Manufacturing You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Most of your training will take place at St Helens Chamber s Construction Training Centre in Parr. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. We start programmes every month and there s no set amount of time that they last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students on this course can progress into one of our exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies in manufacturing or production. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on clothes or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship within 3-4 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a career in a number of roles such as a Machine Operative or Production Manager. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 18

21 Callum Hunking, TD Construction Testing Callum is a straight A student when it comes to construction testing When he left school two years ago, Callum didn t know what to do. Since then he has excelled in his Apprenticeship at TD Construction Testing. Callum now works as an Apprentice Lab Technician, performing complex testing duties, but he has come a long way. He said: When I left school I didn t have a clue what to do. I went to the Chamber and decided that I would do an Apprenticeship because I wanted to get a job and earn my own money. Callum was nominated for an Apprentice of the Year award. He attended an awards ceremony with other Apprentices who had gone above and beyond in their work and qualification. Jane Hopkinson at TD Construction Testing said: Callum understands the testing specifications, which are sometimes complicated. For the amount of time he has been here, his standard of work is very high. Callum continued: I like how much support the Chamber gives you through the Apprenticeship. The company have supported me as well. Taking on this Apprenticeship has been really helpful and I have learned so much about myself and other things I didn t know. 19

22 Digital Marketing (New for 2017!) Who is it for? This course is for young people aged who want to gain the skills and experience needed to progress to an Apprenticeship working in the Digital Marketing sector. What will I study? Digital skills are more relevant than ever. On this course you will gain a good understanding of the skills needed to work within the Digital Marketing sector, including the principles of marketing and video marketing. You will also learn how to use social media in a professional capacity. As part of the course you will have the opportunity to gain up to 7 weeks work experience with a local employer, where you can put your knowledge of social media and digital marketing strategies to use. You will get help with English and Maths (if you need it) and receive support with CV writing and interview techniques. Where will it take place? Your training will take place at St Helens Chamber where you will have access to our onsite facilities such as free Wi-Fi and the café. When can I start? Our courses are flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. There s no set amount of time that the course will last for - it s all about getting you ready for work. What next? Students can progress into one of our exclusive Apprenticeship vacancies in Digital Marketing, Marketing and Sales, Business Administration or IT. On successful completion of the course you will receive 100 in vouchers to spend on clothes or equipment to set you up in your new job. You ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn on an Apprenticeship, and vastly improve your career progression prospects. Students often secure an Apprenticeship within 3-4 weeks. What about my career? This course could put you on your way to a career in a variety of roles in a developing industry, e.g. Social Media Manager, Digital Marketing Executive or Media Planner. For more information call us on or apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com 20

23 Kieran Martin, NL Williams Group Marketing Apprentice Kieran, re-launches company website and branding Kieran Martin is currently completing a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Marketing and is employed full time at NL Williams Group. Kieran wasted no time in putting his skills to good use, and within his first few months at the company launched a new website and company logos. He said: When I first started things were not quite up to scratch with the company s marketing and website. One of my first tasks was to build NL Williams online presence and I built a new website through WordPress. The website was up and running in a month and I was really pleased with that. Kieran progressed onto an Apprenticeship after completing one of the Chamber s Fast Track to Apprenticeships courses, which gave him the skills he needed to feel confident entering the workplace. He said: I was very close to going to University, but one of my friends got a similar Apprenticeship and he told me about the hands on approach that the course took. I m a practical sort of person so doing an Apprenticeship appealed to me. Kieran is due to progress onto a Level 3 Apprenticeship and feels positive about his decision to pursue an Apprenticeship rather than going to University. He said: I would definitely recommend an Apprenticeship. I didn t think I would be able to build a website and use Adobe software, I m learning new skills every day. 21

24 Interactive Media, Digital Marketing and Sales What s the course about? Are you considering a career in Creative Media, Digital Marketing and Sales? If you are aged our full-time, 7 month course can help you achieve your career goals. St Helens Chamber offers an industry led course for school and college leavers. This fast track course will provide you with qualifications and experience in Creative Media, Digital Marketing and Sales, and give you an introduction to the working environment. What will I study? You will learn how sales are made and how to use social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter in a professional capacity. You ll get practical experience and take on industry projects, as well as gaining relevant qualifications on an intense, full time curriculum. If you have an aptitude for business, this course can develop your skills for an exciting career. The course also includes: An all-expenses paid study trip to Germany Relevant work experience CV development and interview preparation Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award Level 1 in Interactive Media Level 2 Marketing and Sales Level 3 Extended Project qualification, (a dissertation or applied study on real work based challenges) What comes next? At the end of the 7 month programme you will be guaranteed an interview for an Advanced Apprenticeship with a local business in a relevant role. 96% of course graduates are employed in their field of study. This course is a great way to get the skills you need to enter roles in marketing or sales. The course starts in September each year with the Apprenticeship beginning the following Spring. To be accepted onto our Full Time Interactive Media, Digital Marketing and Sales course, you will need GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4 or above. For more information call us on or info@thestartingpoint.org 22

25 Kieran Hackett, Resolve Energy Kieran set for a bright future in Sales After deciding that A Levels weren t for him, Kieran began looking into different options. Whilst attending an Open Day at the Chamber, he found out about the Marketing and Sales course and decided it offered him the alternative to school that he was looking for. The course stood out as it was something different. It offered the chance to learn whilst in a working environment. It really sets you up to be ready at the end for work or an Apprenticeship. Even though we were there to learn we were treated like employees of the Chamber rather than kids in a classroom, commented Kieran. Since completing the course Kieran has gone on to work as an Apprentice for Resolve Energy. Jake Cowley, Sales Team Manager at Resolve Energy said: I could only say positive things about Kieran. He s a good addition to the team. It s been a pleasure to work with him over the past 12 months and see him grow from a shy, soft spoken individual with no sales skills into someone who has blossomed into a really good account manager. I see a positive and bright future for Kieran at Resolve. Prior to starting the course, sales was very alien to Kieran. The course and Apprenticeship have helped grow his knowledge so he can progress and build an exciting career. Kieran added: The course was taught really well. Many aspects of what we learnt were relevant to the role I m doing today. Being on the the course made everything a lot clearer so when I started at Resolve Energy it gave me a head start. 23

26 Graduate Hub What is the Graduate Hub? If you are a graduate looking to begin your career, our Graduate Hub can help. You ve worked hard to get your degree, and have recently graduated, but now what? Specialist advisers will work with you to find and apply for jobs. We ll make sure that you impress employers by helping you to develop your CV and practice interview skills. What will I study? The Graduate Hub is a FREE 3 week programme designed to add valuable skills and qualifications to your CV, making you a more attractive candidate to employers. These include: IT skills Online marketing Social media strategy Digital skills for business Successful sales techniques First Aid Workplace Health and Safety Level 2 CV writing and interview skills. What comes next? St Helens Chamber works closely with local businesses in a variety of sectors, meaning that we have excellent links to local graduate vacancies. We have developed a unique approach to provide paid internships. After a successful interview, you will be initially employed by the company for 6 months and paid the national minimum wage. The Graduate Hub provides a rare opportunity to earn a living whilst gaining valuable industry experience for a substantial amount of time. The Graduate Hub is part of the Access to Work programme, which is funded by the Youth Employment Initiative and the European Social Fund. For more information call us on or info@thestartingpoint.org 24

27 Michael Kenny, ZUT Media Local Graduate Michael helps to fill local skills gap Graduate Michael Kenny was the first candidate to successfully gain employment through the Chamber s Graduate Hub. Following a training programme at the Chamber, Michael completed his work experience at Zut Media and began his six month placement with the company. Mark Hancock, Co-Owner at Zut Media, said: Our graduate Michael has really hit the ground running. His production-related degree has given him a good understanding of what we do as a business as well as providing him with some basic level skills that we can nurture. We have also been really impressed with his eagerness to work and learn more. It s only early days but if Michael carries on showing the same level of effort and willingness to learn we will definitely offer him a permanent position at the end of his initial 6 months period. 25

28 Student Services The benefits of studying with St Helens Chamber go far beyond the excellent training you will receive. There are a number of perks to studying with us Study in a professional environment Whilst at St Helens Chamber you will study in a professional, business environment. You will be expected to dress smartly, and display a mature attitude towards learning. In return, you will be able to make use of our state of the art IT suites and enjoy the numerous benefits of studying within a Business School Dedicated Career Coach During your studies at St Helens Chamber, you will work with a dedicated Career Coach who will be on hand to help you with any aspect of getting your career on track. You will be able to take advantage of advice from our qualified advisers throughout your course and beyond. Once you are in work, your Career Coach will still be on hand to support you Financial and pastoral support All students will receive a free bus pass for the duration of their studies. On successful completion of our Fast Track to Apprenticeships and Full-time courses, students will receive 100 in shopping vouchers. There is additional financial assistance, including lunch vouchers, available for eligible students. St Helens Chamber can also offer additional personal support to help you reach your full potential Apprentice Extra Student Union card St Helens Chamber students can apply for an NUS Apprentice card, giving you access to hundreds of discounts online and in high street shops, theme parks and restaurants across the UK. The card works in the same way as the traditional NUS student discount card and lasts for 12 months. Examples of discounts include 10% off online with Megabus, 25% off student ticket prices at ODEON and 20% off at Pizza Hut Café and internet bar Students are always welcome to make use of the Chamber s on site facilities such as the café and free internet bar, giving you a space to connect with other students and work independently. 26

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30 Extra Support What additional support is available? If you need a little extra help to get you ready for work, our dedicated Career Coaches will work with you until you are ready to start on one of our Fast Track courses. No matter what s been holding you back in the past, we will help you to get where you want to be! Our approach is completely flexible to meet your needs. Whether you prefer to work in a classroom environment or would benefit from one to one tutorials with your Career Coach, we will work around you. We will also pay you expenses each day you attend to cover your travel costs. With our support you will: Gain personal skills, such as teamwork and confidence Find out more about different types of work and what you are good at Learn how to look and apply for work Make new friends in an informal environment Try out the world of work with job placements available in a variety of sectors Receive advice and support about your options to help you progress 28

31 Our Courses are funded by: Managing Partners Working Futures is part-funded by the European Social Fund and Youth Employment Initiative.

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