A Level results? Just missed out? Lets look at your options…………

Don't worry if you didn't make it into uni - there are plenty of employers out there who will welcome you with open arms! Take (at least) a year out and get some work experience.

Gaining a year’s work experience after school can be a really positive experience – it gives the you an insight into the world of work and an understanding of your own aptitudes.  This is the case regardless of the work you do, but if you can find work that is relevant to the career you want to pursue, then it is likely to improve your chances of getting onto the course they want, if you re-apply – and it will definitely improve your employability once you've completed a degree.

Here are some tips:

• Look at apprenticeship options both on the government website and on Indeed. A job advertised as an apprenticeship means you can expect a well planned introduction to the job and a significant amount of training and sometimes additional, useful qualifications such as Health and Safety certificates.
• Some of the jobs will say that the apprenticeship lasts for 2, 3 or 4 years – and that might be longer than you want to commit for – you don’t have to stay that long – like any job there is a notice period. But please be honest with the employer – they are investing time and money in the training but might be really pleased to have someone come for just a year and be able to alter the training to accommodate that.
• Don’t reject a Level 2 or Level 3 Apprenticeship just because you’ve got A levels – apprenticeships are about learning practical, on the job skills and you need to start with the basics.
• Be proactive – if you can’t find an advertised job that you want, think about the businesses you’d like to work for and send your CV with a covering letter explaining your situation and saying you’d like to gain some work experience. Look for volunteering work while you’re trying to find a job. Employers like people who show initiative.

Some examples of what you could do if you’ve missed out on a uni place and decide to take a year out:

Medicine  -  Get in touch with Alabare and There4U Domiciliary Care and ask about opportunities that would give you a real insight into what it’s like to be on the front line of the health service.

Law - You can apply for some great opportunities at the Crown Prosecution Service which could progress to a fully funded law degree, or get in touch with Bonallack and Bishop and get experience in a local solicitors office.

Engineering – Check out all the amazing Engineering apprenticeship options including degree apprenticeships at Dstl. You are too late for this year – but there are admin and stores vacancies at Dstl – so apply for one of those and be first in the queue when they start advertising for engineering apprentices next year. Codeology are a small local firm looking for someone interested in manufacturing engineering.  Qinetiq, Sopra Steria and Roke are other local large companies offering great engineering opportunities.

Arts – Wessex Archaeology may have paid work and are always looking for volunteers.  English Heritage are also looking for staff.

Vet School – Pinkham Equine Vets have just joined the website. They are looking for a Business Admin apprentice. They are looking for someone who can also handle horses!