enjoy learning
Be ready to submit your application on the 21st of November.
Attend one of the sessions below for help: Room IT2
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Starting week 7th November |
Monday |
Tuesday |
Wednesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
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Lunchtime 12.40 – 1.20 |
Mrs. Thomson Mr. Pearson
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Mr. Cockerill |
Perween Sajjad |
Ms. Callan |
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After school 3.30 – 4.30 |
Mrs. Richardson Ms. Gore Mrs Lawrence Ms Foster-Ash Ms Shepherd Jake |
Ms. Bamford Ms. Cuckson Ms. Gore Mrs Lawrence Ms Foster-Ash Ms Shepherd Jake
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Mrs. Richardson Mrs. Dearing Ms. Gore Mrs Lawrence Ms Foster-Ash Ms Shepherd Jake
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Mrs. Fox Ms. Gore Mrs Lawrence Ms Foster-Ash Ms Shepherd Jake
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These sessions will last until all Y11’s have completed their Applysheffield Applications
Making Applications
All schools in Sheffield now use ApplySheffield for making applications. This means that all of you will be able to make all your applications through a single, online system – no more filling out lots of forms or having to cross out mistakes! It will also help you keep track of all the applications you make.
APPLYSHEFFIELD GOES LIVE 21ST NOVEMBER 2011 BEFORE THIS DATE STUDENTS CAN WORK ON PROFILE AND RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
Applying to a School Sixth Form
To apply to a sixth form or to a different school, the main method of application is ApplySheffield.
you can apply for up to 3 schools in order of preference.
If when you are applying to a school if their sixth form has more applicants than places (and if all entry requirements are met) then applicants who live closest to the school are given preference. This means that you may need a backup plan. You will only receive a single offer.
When?
The closing dates still need to be confirmed so check them in the autumn, either with the admissions Team of the school or with the Admissions Team Sheffield City council. Your own careers advised would be a good place to start.
To find out more, look on the Sheffield City Council website or contact The Admissions Team, Howden House, 1 Union St: 273 5790.
If you are applying to one of the independent schools you should contact them direct.
Applying to Longley Park Sixth Form College
Applysheffield is the website on which you apply.
When?
Apply from the 21st November. 2011. If you apply before this date, your application will be returned unaccepted. The closing dates still need to be confirmed so check them with your careers adviser, or with the Sheffield City Council Admissions Team.
Applying to The Sheffield College
Applysheffield, is the website on which you apply.
When?
Apply from the 21st November. 2011. If you apply before this date, your application will be returned unaccepted. More information can be found in the Facts About College booklet. You can also ring the college (0114 260 2600). The closing dates still need to be confirmed so check them with your careers adviser, or with the Sheffield City Council Admissions Team. Please remember courses fill very quickly so apply as early as possible.
Applying to work based learning (Apprenticeship)
You can apply to lots of training providers through ApplySheffield. If not, contact the training provider - they may have their own application forms or ask you to apply on their own website.The National Apprenticeship Vacancies Online Service also advertises Apprenticeship vacancies across the country there is a link on the home page of the above website..
Some training providers ask you to look for your own work placement so you may need to contact employers too – check out tips on application forms and cvs. On the apply Sheffield Website. Or read the following.
CVs
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a summary of your career so far and your qualifications, skills and experience. It should:
• make you look good
• show your skills and qualities clearly
• make you stand out from other applicants.
What to include on a CV
There is no single correct way of writing a CV but as a rule it should always include:
• your name, address, telephone number (and email address if you have one)
• details of your education
• details of your qualifications
• details of any work experience (including any voluntary work)
• some information about your skills (especially any that are needed for the job/course)
• brief details about your hobbies and interests
• names and contact details of two people who can give you a reference
(remember to ask them first).
Many employers also expect a CV to include a short statement or profile explaining what makes you right for that particular job. To be effective, this section needs to be re-written every time you make a new application so that it is specific to the role which you are applying for.
You need to keep your CV short - no longer than 2 sides of A4 and if you are in Year 11 then one side of A4 is probably enough.
There is a lot more information about CVs in the Connexions Centre at Star House and GetConnectedSheffield.
Interviews
Sheffield Futures sometimes arrange interviews for young people and employers. Feedback from interviewers includes:
"They were late"
"They didn’t turn up"
"They didn’t know anything about what we do"
"They didn’t seem interested"
"Their mobiles kept going off"
Obviously, not all young people do these things! However these are all complaints that could be avoided with a bit of preparation.
Before the Interview
• find out about the job/course
• find out what the company does e.g. do they make something? Provide a service? You can find out
by checking their website
• plan your journey e.g. check bus times
• make sure you are appropriately dressed – this normally means looking clean and tidy and
wearing something reasonably smart
• think about questions
• check whether you need to take anything (e.g. references, certificates)
At the Interview
• be on time! If you get held up, ring and warn them
• be polite and friendly but not too casual
• answer questions as fully and honestly as you can – think first!
• switch off your mobile phone if you have one!
You might be asked:
"Why do you want this job/course?"
"What are your best subjects?"
"What skills do you have?"
"What experience have you had?"
"What have you got to offer this company?"
"What would you like to be doing in a few years time?"
"What does this company do?"
You could ask:
"How will I be trained?"
"Can I take any qualifications?"
"What are the prospects for promotion?"
"Is there a uniform or dress code?"
"What is the pay?" (It is better not to make this your first or only question!)
Tests: Ask beforehand if there are any written tests, e.g. in Maths or English. Some companies put sample tests on their websites.
Telephone Interviews: If you are asked to ring an employer, treat it as a short interview and be prepared for a few questions.
After the Interview: If you are successful, well done! If not, ask for feedback to help you next time.
If you change your mind: If you decide you do not want to go for an interview, let them know. Just not showing up is not good enough: you could be denying another young person the chance of that job and it could also put the employer off taking on any young people.
Learning through work and training
Learning doesn't have to take place at school or college. You can also learn while you are working. It is likely to be a mix of on the job training and learning at a training centre or college, working towards vocational qualifications and developing your key skills.
This could be a good choice for you if you want to:
• Get qualifications while you are working
• Start earning a wage
To view Apprenticeship opportunities please visit the Apprenticeship website. Please note that you will not be able to start work until after the official school leaving date (the last Friday in June).
Time off for study or training
You are entitled to paid time off to study / train up to NVQ level 2 if:
• you have a job
• you have not already got qualifications to NVQ level 2 (5 GCSEs grades A*-C or equivalent)
For more information, check out www.dfs.gov.uk/tfst
Which is the right job for you?
Before taking any job or training opportunity, ask these questions:
• What skills, interests and abilities will I need?
• What types of work does this opportunity involve?
• What qualifications will I need?
• What training and qualifications will I get?
• What are my chances of staying employed in this work in my local area?
POINT: YOU WILL NEED TO FIND YOUR OWN PLACEMENT
14-19 Diplomas
Diplomas are a new qualification for young people age 14-19. They combine practical, work related and general learning. To begin with, they will run in selected schools and colleges.
The following work sectors are available, and information about these courses is currently being updated (so is subject to change). Check with the school/ college, provider or Connexions Adviser to find out more:
Business, Administration and Finance
Construction and the Built Environment
Creative and Media
Engineering
Environmental and Land Based Studies
Hair and Beauty
Hospitality
ICT
Manufacturing and Product Design
Society, Health and Development
By 2013, there will be Diplomas in 14 work sectors plus Humanities, Languages and Science.
What will each Diploma involve?
1.) Principal learning:
studying the knowledge and skills needed for that work sector and learning to use them in a realistic working environment.
Some examples include:
• Designing the built environment
• Exploring and testing building materials
• Understanding organisations
• Using technology to solve business problems
• Graphic Design/Product Design/Dance/Music/Drama/Film/Animation
• Marketing and promotion in the creative and media industries
2.) Generic learning:
general (functional) skills e.g. English, Maths, ICT.
3.) Additional/specialist learning:
in subjects related to that work sector or complementary to it, for example, studying a foreign language.
At level 1 a Diploma will take just under two days a week. At level 2 it will take about half your week. At level 3 it will take up more than half your timetable and you may be able to combine it with a GCSE/A level or specialist vocational qualification.
Plus (at all levels):
• Work experience (at least 10 days)
• A personal project
You will not be based in a single school or college all the time. Expect classes at other schools/ colleges/training centres, master- classes, virtual classroom events, company visits and work placements.
Employers and universities are helping to develop Diplomas and local companies will be involved in teaching them.
How do Diplomas compare to other qualifications?
Diplomas will be at three levels:
Foundation Diploma - Level 1
– Equivalent to GCSEs at grades D-G
Higher Diploma - Level 2
– Equivalent to GCSE grades A*-C
Progression Diploma - Level 3
– Equivalent to 2 A levels (does not include Additional/Specialist Learning)
OR:
Advanced Diploma – Level 3
- Equivalent to 3 A levels
If you are aiming for a particular university or course it is a good idea to consult course admissions tutors; they may want specific qualifications/subjects in addition to a level 3 Diploma.
Where can you study Diplomas?
Each Diploma will be taught through a group (consortium) of schools, colleges, universities, training providers, employers.
Use the search pages (14-16 and 16+) on the Applysheffield website to find out more about each Diploma and where it will be taught in Sheffield.
Is a Diploma right for you?
A Diploma will:
• Help you to learn work-related skills alongside your other studies
• Be challenging: you will be working and thinking in new ways
A Diploma will not:
• Train you for a specific job: if for example you want a course that will train you in a trade (e.g. plumber), a Diploma probably is not for you
• Be an easy option: you will have to be flexible and inventive in order to cope with both practical and theoretical learning.
Find out more by talking to your Connexions Personal Adviser, School Careers Adviser or teacher. In Year 11,visit college and sixth form open evenings, talk to University Admissions Tutors and visit the ‘Routes 16 exhibition’.
Think too about how you learn best.
Some things you should consider:
• How will a Diploma be different from other courses or Apprenticeships?
• What will I study on a Diploma?
• How will this style of learning suit me?
• How will I be assessed?
• What other qualifications/subjects can I take alongside a Diploma?
• Where will a Diploma lead? What kind of opportunities might I have after Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3?
• How do university admissions tutors view Diplomas?
• Should I take any additional subjects or qualifications?
• What happens if I change my mind? Will I be able to move on to other courses from a Diploma?
Useful Websites
General information:
www.direct.gov.uk/diplomas
www.edexcel.org.uk/quals/diploma
Sector specific information:
Business, administration and finance www.baf-diploma.org.uk
Construction www.cbediploma.co.uk
Creative & Media www.skillset.org/qualifications/diploma or http://www.teendigital.info
Engineering www.engineeringdiploma.com
Environmental and Land Based Studies www.diplomaelbs.co.uk
Hair and Beauty www.habia.org
Hospitality www.people1st.co.uk/14-19-diplomas
ICT http://www.e-skills.com/itdiploma
Manufacturing and Product Design www.manufacturingdiploma.co.uk
Society, Health and Development http://diploma.skillsforhealth.org.uk Bottom of Form
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Money Matters
What financial help is there?
Earning a Wage
Work Based Learning or Employment
Wages vary between employers. The national minimum wage for 16 and 17 year olds is currently £3.68 per hour (figures correct Oct 2011). However this does not apply if you are on an apprenticeship. These rates usually change in either April or October. For information visit the website www.hmrc.gov.uk
Current NMW rates
There are different levels of NMW, depending on your age and whether you are an apprentice. The current rates (from 1 October 2011) are:
If you are of compulsory school age you are not entitled to the NMW. Some of your other employment rights are also different.
Advanced Apprenticeships and employed status Apprenticeships
All Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships (other than Programme led Apprenticeships) are employed status. This means that you have a job with the company, although your training may be organised with a training provider. These opportunities pay a wage – the amount varies, this has increased recently to £2.60 per hour, at present this means if you are working a 37 hour week you will be paid £96.20.
Programme led Apprenticeships
These opportunities provide training that can lead you into an (employed status) Apprenticeship. You may be eligible for a range of allowances and benefits.
From June 2010 the Government phased out E2E and replaced it with Foundation Learning, please speak to Personal Advisers for more information.
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO 16-18 STUDENTS
SUMMARY
This note summarises the Government’s position on financial support to students
AUDIENCE
This note is intended for young people aged 16-18, those in Y11 making choices for post 16, and those advising young people on their choices.
EDUCATION MAINTENANCE ALLOWANCE (EMA)
EMA finished at the end of the 2010/11 academic year. Students who are already receiving EMA will continue to do so until the end of this academic year. Please note:
NEW SUPPORT SCHEME
The Government has stated it will fund schools, colleges and training providers to support young people. This discretionary funding will be targeted on those most in need as identified by the provider. This is not a replacement for EMA.
FURTHER ADVICE
From your careers teacher; from your Connexions Personal Adviser; or from the national helpline of the Learner Support Service of the Young People’s Learning Agency on 0845 600 7979
Lifelong Learning and Skills
Children and Young People’s Services
3 December 2010
*Learner Support Funds or School Access Scheme
These funds may be able to help you if you are at sixth form or college, although it will depend on your circumstances whether you can claim.
For further information, contact either student services/ student support section at college, or for school sixth forms, contact Student Finance at the Children and Young People’s Directorate, Howden House (0114) 273 5479.
Travel Costs
To find out if you can get help with travel costs visit the South Yorkshire Passenger Transport website www.travelsouthyorkshire.com
You can sometimes get additional help if you attend a course that is too far away from home for daily travel. For information visit
www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/14To19/MoneyToLearn/ExtraHelp/DG_066560
Care to Learn
This is for young parents who are under 20 and in learning or training. It can help towards childcare and additional travel costs. Contact the Care to Learn helpline on 0845 600 2809 or visit the website http://www.direct.gov.uk/caretolearn
Help for all families
Whatever your family’s income:
- Your family will get Child Benefit for you until you are 20 if you are in full time further education or
certain types of work based learning.
- You do not have to pay for tuition until you are 19.
Further Help
There may be other funds to support you while you study. See your Connexions Personal Adviser or Careers Co-ordinator, or see the DfES booklet financial Help for Students available from your Connexions Centre.
Want to know more?
www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/14To19/MoneyToLearn
www.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit
Care to learn helpline - 0800 121 8989
Child Tax Credits Helpline - 0845 300 3900
Wages and Benefits
Wages and National Insurance
If you get a job your wage can vary. There is National Minimum Wage for 16-17 of £3.68 an hour. However Apprenticeships don’t have to pay Minimum Wage until you are 19.
Once you earn more than £110* a week you pay National Insurance Contributions. These go towards benefits that you may need in future. You will be sent a National Insurance Number around the time of your sixteenth birthday so keep it safe till you start work. If it does not arrive tell your local Jobcentre Plus.
*Figures can change in April or October each year - check Direct.gov.uk
Help with Childcare
The Care to Learn Fund can help pay for childcare and travel if you are a teenage parent and if you are in school or college or certain work based learning (one that does not pay a wage. You have to use approved childcare. Ring the Care to Learn Helpline: 0800 121 8989.
Benefits
You cannot usually claim benefits in your own right till you are 18 unless there are special circumstances - e.g:
• you are forced to live away from home
• you have a child or are pregnant (from 11 weeks before the baby is due)
• you are sick or have a disability
Child Benefit/Child Benefit Extension
Your family should receive Child Benefit until either:
• you start a job or an Apprenticeship or Advanced Apprenticeship
or
• the Monday following 31 August
If you are not fixed up after this date, your family may get Child Benefit Extension but this is only paid for a limited period (normally 20 weeks from the official school leaving date).
Want to know more?
• ask your Careers Adviser
• use www.direct.gov.uk or the booklet Financial help for young people
• ring the EMA helpline: 0800 121 8989 or use the EMA website.
Post 16 Options
Are you in Year 11 and unsure of what to do next?
You have several options but it is important that you keep on learning - this does not always mean full time studying for academic qualifications if this is not for you.
There are several ways of learning. You need to think about:
• Where you want to learn:
School Sixth Form?
College or Sixth Form College?
Work based learning?
A job with training?
• How you like to learn
• Your estimated grades
General Qualifications
"I’m doing OK in my GCSEs and I want to carry on studying."
"I don’t want to decide on a career just yet."
"I know what career I want and I need to do more studying first."
Does that sound like you? If it does, then take a look at this general qualifications page.
What are they?
General qualifications are often in subjects that you are already taking at GCSE level (although there are some new subjects too). They can involve quite a lot of classroom study, written work, reading and exams. Many of them need GCSE grades A*-C. These qualifications do not train you for a career but the subjects you choose could affect your options later on. For example, some careers or university courses ask for specific subjects (e.g. at A-Level). So, if you choose general qualifications, you still need to think about what you might want to do in the future.
Things to think about:
• you need a backup plan if you don’t expect to get GCSE A*-Cs
• the subjects you take may affect career or university choices
• you need to enjoy classroom study
• there may be a lot of exams.
Interested?
Then investigate qualifications such as: A-Level, GCSE and AQA Baccalaureate.
Work-related Qualifications
"I want a course that can help me get into work or university."
"I want to carry on studying but I think I need a change."
"I’ve got a rough idea of what sort of work I want to do."
"I’m not that good at exams."
Does that sound like you? If it does, then take a look at this work related qualifications page.
What are they?
Work related (or applied) qualifications prepare you for a broad area of work or a ‘work sector’. They might suit you if you don’t want to train for a specific job just yet but you like the idea of working in … let’s say Health Care or Construction. There are lots of other work sectors to choose from. You would still spend quite a bit of time in a classroom but there would be practical learning too and sometimes work experience. You might have some exams but there should be coursework or projects as well. They can still lead to higher education, although certain colleges and universities like them to be backed up with an A-Level; check this out with your Personal Adviser.
Levels
Another advantage of work related qualifications is that you can study them at different levels, depending on what grades you get. This can give you a backup plan – if you don’t get the grades you’re hoping for, you can start off on a lower level then move up later if you do well.
Things to think about:
• you need to enjoy practical learning as well as classroom study
• you should have a general idea of the sort of work you want to do
• certain university courses might ask for an additional subject at A-Level
Interested?
Then take a look at qualifications such as Applied A-Level, Diplomas, BTEC.
Not for you then look at other types of qualifications.
Job-specific Qualifications
"I know I need to keep learning but I’d still rather get a job."
"I know what sort of job I want – can’t I start training straight away?"
"Studying in a classroom just isn’t for me."
"Learning is much easier if I’m doing something practical"
Does that sound like you? If it does, then take a look at this job specific qualifications page.
What are they?
Job specific qualifications prepare you for a specific job in such things as Hairdressing, Plumbing, Customer Service and lots more.
You learn in a very practical way, often with an employer or a training provider.
Job specific qualifications are at different levels so they can still lead to university.
Things to think about:
• you need to be good at practical learning
• you need to be interested in the job concerned
• the employer will expect you to be ready for work – e.g. your timekeeping will need to be good.
Interested?
Then take a look at work based learning and NVQs.
Work-based Learning
Do you learn best by ‘doing’ rather than by studying? Are you keen to get straight into a job? If yes, then work based learning (learning while you work) could be for you!
These are the main types of work based learning for young people:
Entry to Employment (e2e)
If you do not feel that you are ready for work or training, foundation learning can help. You do not need any qualifications to join and you might:
• learn new skills
• do activities that help you become more confident
• gain some qualifications (up to Level 1)
You attend foundation learning between 16 hours and 40 hours a week. Ask your Careers Adviser to tell you more about it.
Apprenticeships
On an Apprenticeship you are based with an employer while you learn. This leads to:
• qualifications (normally at Level 2)
• key skills qualifications (e.g. working with people)
• technical certificates (e.g. a BTEC qualification)
Apprenticeships are ‘real jobs’ and the organisations running them are called ‘training providers’. Entry requirements vary as they are set by the employer or training provider.
Advanced Apprenticeships
Advanced Apprenticeships are also ‘real jobs’. They are similar to Apprenticeships but the main differences are:
• you train for a higher level job (e.g. a technician or supervisor)
• they lead to higher qualifications (at Level 3)
• the entry requirements may be higher (e.g. you may need GCSE grades A*-C)
It can lead to certain higher education courses (e.g. Foundation Degrees). You might start off on an Apprenticeship and move up to Advanced Apprenticeship if you do well.
What type of work would I do?
There are all sorts of work sectors - such as Care, Business, Engineering. Use the 16-19 search in Apply Sheffield to find out what’s available in Sheffield.
The Apprenticeships website has information about Apprenticeship vacancies across the country (called ‘The National Apprenticeship Vacancies Online Service’).
Finding an apprenticeship
You can use the Apprenticeship website to search for local training providers. In most schools you will also make your applications through this website.
You will also need to find an employer who will give you the workplace experience. (This is sometimes called a work placement). Sometimes the training provider may help you look for an employer but some will expect you to do this for yourself. This will mean contacting local employers and sending them a copy of your CV.
The website www.getconnectedsheffield.com advertises local apprenticeship vacancies and has lots of info about applications, CVs and interviews.
The website www.apprenticeships.org.uk gives extra help with looking for an apprenticeship. It also advertises apprenticeship vacancies across the country.
Other opportunities
If you are still not fixed up after you have left school there may be other opportunities, such as Futureproof. Ask your Personal Adviser to tell you more about it.
Do You Need Help With Learning?
"I find learning difficult"
"I’ve missed so much school I won’t get any qualifications"
If this is you, do not worry - there are still ways of learning.
Entry Level or Level 1 Learning
You can learn at different levels. Courses that are at either Level 1 or Entry Level do not usually have entry requirements.
These levels are sometimes called Foundation Learning. If you do not have many qualifications or if you have missed a lot of school, this can help you get started. If you do well you can then go on to take higher qualifications.
They can be in all kinds of subjects such as reading or using numbers, or they can help you get ready for work.
If you have additional needs or if you struggle with reading and written work, it is normally better to say so when you make an application because the organisation may be able to get extra money to help you.
We also produce a booklet for parents and carers, called Options, that has lots more information to help you.
If you want to know more, ask your Careers Adviser
Apprenticeships
Being an apprentice means that you have a real job and will be completing a qualification while you work and will be earning a minimum of £95 per week if in employed status. If not in employed status then EMA used to apply. However, the government is currently revising this.(information to follow). As an apprentice you will get the support needed to successfully complete an NVQ qualification and gain the necessary skills to succeed in your chosen career. There are 3 levels of apprenticeships available.
Apprenticeships usually take around 15 months to complete and the apprentice will work toward completing NVQ at level 2, key skills and in most cases a technical certificate.
Advanced Apprenticeships usually last around 2 years and will work towards achieving NVQ level 3, key skills and a technical certificate, some advanced apprenticeships can take longer e,g construction and engineering.
Higher Apprenticeships will work towards achieving an NVQ level 4 and sometimes a knowledge based qualification such as a foundation degree. Some apprenticeships will attract UCAS points helping you to gain entry to university.
Apprenticeships are for those who know which career they wish to enter, and who can commit to a period of training and study. You must be willing to undertake further study and commit for up to one or two years. In order to gain the qualifications, the whole Apprenticeship must be completed.
What is involved?
An employer will provide on-the-job training to ensure you can achieve an NVQ level 2 or 3.
This provides you with the practical experience you need as evidence for completing the NVQ.
A training provider will give you training on the skills needed for the job with your employer, such as IT and communication skills.
A training provider can be a college or an independent approved provider.
Entry requirements?
It depends on the training provider and the Apprenticeship framework, but you will have to show that you have the ability to complete the programme.
Standard entry to the Advance level is 5 GCSEs (A*-C) including English and Maths. However, entry to the Apprenticeship level can be gained with lower grades.
Once you have submitted your application, you may be invited to attend an interview with the training provider and employer - just like most job application processes. You may even be asked to take a test. You need to prepare for the interview - you will need to sell yourself and pursuade others that the Apprenticeship is right for you. Competition for places can vary and there may be numerous people who all want the position.
What can I do afterwards?
The Advanced Apprenticeship qualification is accepted by many universities/colleges as entry onto HNCs, HNDs, Foundation degrees and Honours degrees. Some employers allow individuals to continue studying on a part-time basis whilst working in order to receive a wage.
For more information, please contact your Personal Advisor.
Further help with making your decision
It is important to stay in learning but how do you choose the way that is best for you?
You need to think about two things:
• how you learn best - that is, do you do better with written work or practical work?
• what you want to do in the future.
Take a look at these statements. Click on any that sound like you to be forwarded onto further information.
"I’m doing ok in my GCSEs and I want to carry on studying"
"Studying in a classroom just isn’t for me"
"I know what career I want but I need to do more studying first"
"I find learning difficult’
"I want to carry on studying but I think I need a change"
"I want a course that can help me get into work or university"
"I can learn much more easily if I’m doing something practical"
"I know I need to keep learning but I’d still rather get a job"
"I don’t want to decide on a career just yet"
"I’ve missed so much school I won’t get any qualifications"
"I’ve got a rough idea of what sort of work I want to do"
"Can’t I start training straight away?"
"I would get much better grades if there weren’t so many exams"