Why train?

Training:

• helps you to develop your talents so that you don't waste your abilities
• improves your prospects of a better job - with better pay
• can open up new and exciting opportunities
• lets you take control of your future.

Local opportunities

14-19 Area wide prospectus - for information on local training providers

Unsure where to find out about training available in your area? In addition to talking to your parents/carers, Personal Adviser and teachers, have a look at the online prospectuses listed below. These contain details of all the local training opportunities in your area.

For training opportunities in:
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly: http://www.cornwall.futures4me.co.uk
Plymouth: http://www.findacourse4me.co.uk
Devon and Torbay: http://www.options4me.co.uk

Apprenticeships

Getting paid while you learn might sound too good to be true — but as an apprentice you really do get the best of both worlds. Apprentices start work and earn a good wage at the same time. They develop the skills and gain the qualifications that employers want.

Apprenticeships offer a good balance between learning new skills and earning a living. Pay can vary, but all employed apprentices must receive a minimum of £95 per week. As your skills develop, your pay will increase accordingly. You may also get additional money for essential books, clothing or equipment, or to help you with a disability. As an apprentice, you will receive the same benefits as other employees such as pension contributions, subsidised canteen and leisure facilities.

There are now over 180 different Apprenticeships available covering a wide range of occupations from engineering to accountancy. All Apprenticeships lead to National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and key skills qualifications. Some Apprenticeships also offer a technical certificate such as a BTEC or City & Guilds.

Most Apprenticeships last between one and three years and there are different levels of Apprenticeships available. The Apprenticeship that is right for you will depend on your experience and the opportunities in your area. Talk to your Personal Adviser to find out what's available locally.

To find out what an Apprenticeship can do for you, go to www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

You can search for an Apprenticeship at the apprenticeship vacancy matching service.