The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, is encouraging Island youngsters to consider the full range of options open to them when they leave school this year. Many bright students feel that they must go to university in order to get onto the career ladder, but this is not always the case.

Mr Turner said:

“There is plenty of information available to help those who want to go to university to make the right choices, but there are other opportunities available and university is not right for everyone. Last year the drop-out rate at some universities was over 20% and the overall drop-out rate rose by 13%, so now, more than ever before young people need to consider whether university is really right for them..

“These are challenging economic times and the job market is difficult; some employers will consider employing young people with more practical experience rather than graduates. We must make sure that youngsters know there are other paths – and importantly that a different way of preparing for the world of work is not a second-class option.”

Some of the other options open to young people are :

Diploma – Designed in partnership with employers and universities the diploma combines practical hands-on experience with classroom learning to encourage students to develop work relevant skills.

BTECs - Hands-on courses concentrating on gaining skills relevant to the workplace, assessed by coursework rather than examinations.

Apprenticeships – Paid work experience combining continuous learning in the workplace along with improving skills. In 2011 apprenticeship placements increased by 100% on the Island.

Jobs with Training – A paid role offering ongoing training leading to qualifications such as NVQs. Many large companies have their own training programme leading to nationally recognised accreditations such as HNC, foundation degree or professional qualification.

Foundation Learning Programme – Free courses for people with few or no formal qualifications to improve maths, English and ICT, developing personal skills and confidence to help get a job, apprenticeship or training programme.

For information on all of the above options students should contact their school careers advice departments.

ENDS
Contact : Andrew Turner’s Office 01983 530808