Source magazine Spring 2017

www.sourcemagazine.org.uk

S COTLAND ’ S NUM BER O NE ST UDE NT M AG A Z I NE

Spring 2017

IN THE MONEY Could a future in finance be for you?

NOT-SO PICTURE PERFECT

The impact of social media on body image revealed

THE NEXT BIG GIRL BAND

M.O singer Nadine on making it in music

6

OF THE BEST STUDY APPS

Exam season = sorted

JAMES ARTHUR The ultimate comeback star of 2017 opens up about fame, second chances and mental health

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// welcome

SourceMagazine @SourceMag @source.magazine PUBLISHER

Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk

EDITOR

Lindsay Cochrane lindsay.cochrane@dcpublishing.co.uk

STAFF WRITER

Kirsty McKenzie kirsty.mckenzie@dcpublishing.co.uk

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Lisa McCabe lisa.mccabe@dcpublishing.co.uk

SALES

Scott Kyle scott.kyle@dcpublishing.co.uk

www.sourcemagazine.org.uk DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Tel: 0844 249 9007 ©DC Publishing Ltd 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.

Hello, and welcome to the very first issue of Source for 2017!

W

e’ve been really busy over the winter months.

We moved offices, we drank plenty of hot chocolate, purchased a LOT of knitwear, had more than a few cuddles with our office dog (see below) – oh, and we gave Source a total revamp too!

The new year is a time for fresh starts, so we stripped Scotland’s favourite student magazine right back and began again to step into 2017 with a hot new look and feel.

And someone who knows a thing or two about starting over is this issue’s cover star – James Arthur. The 2012 X Factor winner followed the mantra of ‘if at first you don’t succeed’, and his second shot at fame? It’s been phenomenal. We had a natter with the Middlesbrough-born crooner about his comeback – check it out on page 8.

Hard work leading to success has definitely been on our mind this issue. To tie in with Scottish Apprenticeship Week this March, we’ve got a bumper apprenticeship section for you, with lots of young people sharing their experiences, info on how it all works and some insight on the roles available.

Elsewhere, we’ve been delving into some of the career areas you wanted to know more about. We’ve stepped into the kitchen to find out more about the world of hospitality, with Masterchef winner and City of Glasgow College lecturer Gary Maclean sharing his tips for the top, plus we’ve got the lowdown on some of the best jobs in the world of finance.

With exam season on the horizon, we’ve got some excellent revision tips to help you through your studies, plus a roundup of the best study apps. You can thank us later when you get that A you weren’t expecting...

And that’s just the beginning of what this issue of Source has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Get stuck in! Just try not to get too distracted before exams kick off – although we know you’ll ace it. Good luck!

Lindsay

Lindsay Cochrane, Editor

2 UNBREAKABLE KIMMY SCHMIDT Netflix, 19 May Everyone’s favourite mole woman is back for another series of off-the-wall adventures in New York City this spring. Try save binging on it until AFTER exams are finished...

3 RAG’N’BONE MAN Ever since breakthrough single Human filled our ears late last year, we’ve been obsessed with Rag’n’Bone Man, or Rory as his mum calls him. His debut album, also called Human, is out now – and totally worth a download.

1 WINNIE Nope, not the bear in the red tee – our very own office dog.

Winnie is a cockapoo pup who belongs to our publisher Denise, and we’re OBSESSED with her furry face. Follow us on Insta (@source.magazine) – we’ll be posting LOTS of pics.

@SourceMag

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PICS: © ERIC LIEBOWITZ_NETFLIX; DEAN CHALKLEY

SCOTLAND’S NUMBER ONE STUDENT MAGAZINE

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contents

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38 10 CELEBS

8 James Arthur

2017’s big comeback story sat down for a chat with Source – and we fell just a little bit in love with him.

Modern Apprenticeships are a great way to launch your career – and we’ve been finding out all about it! With info on how apprenticeships work, a look at some of the cool careers they can lead to and some current apprentices talking us through their experience, you’ll be itching to get signed up by the end of it all. It all kicks off on page 17.

41 Amy Macdonald

We love a Scottish success story – and Amy’s up there amongst our faves! We caught up with the singer-songwriter to talk empties, songwriting and her new album.

46 Introducing… M.O

They’re one of the hottest new girl bands out there – and you’re going to love them. Nadine shared some backstage goss.

WORK

10 The social media guru

Did you know you can make a living out of tweeting, snapping and Instagramming? It’s exactly what Glaswegian Sheri does day in, day out!

12 In the money

A future in finance could be just the career move you’re after! We take a look at some of the best jobs.

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15 How to get started in hospitality From busy kitchens to luxury hotels, there’s something for everyone in the hospitality industry. Plus Masterchef winner Gary Maclean shares his tips for the top.

STUDY

33 Study sessions sussed

Exam season is coming – but don’t

SUBSCRIBE TO SOURCE IT’S FREE! sign up online at sourcemagazine.org.uk/subscribe

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46

sourcemagazine.org.uk The Source website has had a total facelift! And we’ve got lots of juicy new content there to keep you entertained in the months ahead too. Don’t say we’re not good to you…

THE LATEST ENTERTAINMENT

MONEY MAKING SCHEMES

Keep an eye on the site for our guides to the best in movies, music and TV. Because we all need a breather from all that studying.

Want to get rich quick? We’ve got you covered!

Check out our top tips to boost your income. Set up that eBay account stat.

33 panic! We’ve got some great advice to help you survive the most stressful few weeks of your life.

36 The best apps for exam season

You don’t need to bury your phone in a box at the bottom of the garden to avoid distraction over exams – it can actually boost your productivity.

HEALTH

42 Not-so picture perfect

We’re a nation of social media obsessives – but what is our life online doing to the way we see ourselves? We’ve been investigating.

TRAVEL

BUSINESS AND BLOGGING Blogging superstar and the lady behind vegan subscription box Honey Pop Club chats to us about setting up an online business.

INTRODUCING: TOM WALKER

THE BIG INTERVIEW: NINA NESBITT

Singer-songwriter Tom had a natter with Source ahead of his February tour – we’re pretty sure you’re going to LOVE him.

Scottish songstress Nina Nesbitt spoke with us about helping fans, changing labels and why she loves a Scottish crowd.

WANT TO GET WORK EXPERIENCE?

We always want to hear from the next generation of super journalists – and we’ll welcome you into our lovely Glasgow offices for work experience any time!

Send us your CV and a bit about yourself to hello@sourcemagazine.org.uk and we’ll be in touch soon.

SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER

You can get the latest from Source straight to your inbox.

We’re fancy like that.

Sign up at sourcemagazine.org.uk/ newsletter

38 Top of the shops

Got a fancy holiday planned over the Easter break? Check out our travel-inspired guide to the best of the high street.

#GETSOCIAL

Search for Source on social media

39 Volunteering in Sri Lanka

Student Travis tells us about his amazing experience in Sri Lanka with Give a Fig Volunteering. @SourceMag

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dates for your diary

// PLAY

The very best in entertainment across Scotland this spring

9-26

Glasgow International Comedy Festival Venues across Glasgow www.glasgowcomedy festival.com

Fancy a lol? Glasgow’s the place to be in March. From traditional standup to comedy movie screenings, the Comedy Festival has it all. Expect big names like Frankie Boyle, Sue Perkins, Jimmy Carr, and Russell Howard.

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Beauty and the Beast (U) Cinemas nationwide

You are NEVER too old for Disney.

Especially not Disney live-action remakes of our childhood favourite featuring Emma Watson, Ewan McGregor and Emma Thompson. Beauty and the Beast is going to be AMAZING.

20-29

The Addams Family

10

Emeli Sandé

The ultimate comeback kid is Glasgow-bound in March to treat our ears to his velvety-voiced crooning. Welcome back, James.

After a bit of time away from the spotlight, Emeli is back with an almighty bang – and a show at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall to boot. See you down the front.

O2 Academy, Glasgow www.ticketmaster.co.uk

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SSE Hydro, Glasgow www.ticketmaster.co.uk

SSE Hydro, Glasgow www.ticketmaster.co.uk

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MAY

Cinemas nationwide

They’re creepy and they’re kooky – and they’ve been given a musical makeover! The Addams Family stage show promises to be a CORKER. With Carrie Hope Fletcher taking on the role of Wednesday, this is the tour’s UK premiere – so get your tickets now.

Our favourite pintsized crooner will be bringing his funky jams to Glasgow for two nights this April.

Locked Out of Heaven live – all the feels.

11-13

Take That

SSE Hydro, Glasgow www.ticketmaster.co.uk

OK, so they might be more your mum’s cup of tea, but you can’t deny the fact that the three remaining members of Take That know how to pull a brilliant pop record out the bag. Gary, Mark and Howard really go all out for a live show – prepare to be wowed.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (Cert: TBC)

SSE Hydro, Glasgow www.thessehydro.com

Da daaa da-da-da da daaaaaa daa... What do you mean you didn’t get it? It’s the Harry Potter score of course! And this May, the first Potter movie is getting screened at the Hydro, with a live orchestra providing the music. It’s the stuff us Potterheads dream of.

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We didn’t see it coming either, but Craig David’s return to the music biz has been a thing of beauty. He’s booked The Hydro and everything.

Can we get a rewind?

Bruno Mars

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone In Concert

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Craig David

We loved Chris Pratt when he was Andy Dwyer in Parks and Rec – but we love him EVEN MORE as StarLord. Chris is back to lead his band of merry misfits on another sci-fi adventure from the Marvel Universe.

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Usher Hall, Edinburgh www.ticketmaster.co.uk

APRIL

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (Cert: TBC)

Festival Theatre, Edinburgh www.edtheatres.com

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James Arthur

@SourceMag

Cinemas nationwide

What’s that? Captain Jack Sparrow is BACK? Yep, that’s right, Johnny Depp is having his fifth outing as the madcap sea captain, and this time he’s facing old rival Capitán Salazar (Javier Bardem) and a bunch of ghost pirates.

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PICS: © 2016 DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. / ©MARVEL STUDIOS 2017 / ©DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. / ©WARNER BROS. PICTURES

MARCH

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YOU CAN BUILD ROCKETS. BUT CAN YOU START FIRES? Find out more now at teachinscotland.scot

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// CELEBS THE BIG INTERVIEW

After some time away from the limelight, James Arthur is back – and 2017 is set to be his year. The hit maker took some time out ahead of his UK tour to talk fame, second chances and mental he

I

t’s been quite a year for James Arthur. After winning The X Factor in 2012, his career has been a bit of a rollercoaster – and after some controversial comments in the press and parting ways with his record label Syco in 2014, we thought we’d heard the last of him.

And then Say You Won’t Let Go happened.

“It’s been incredible to see that people have connected with my music again,” says James. “If you had asked me this question a year ago, I would have thought Ashton Kutcher would come out of some corner to say I had been Punk’d!”

CONNECTED And people really have connected with it.

The single went to number one in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Sweden – and it finished at number 19 in the overall year-end charts in 2016 here in Britain. The song, and its follow-up Safe Inside, have received incredible airplay – something he says he’s still not used to, despite four years in the business.

“It’s always such a great feeling hearing your song on the radio and seeing the support you are getting,” he admits. “I don’t think you can ever get too used to it.”

The singles’ success has marked an incredible return to form for the 28-yearold – and he’s a little bit more grateful for it all this time around.

“I think time away from the limelight really helped in everything that’s happened now,” he says. “I needed that time away, as cliché as it sounds, to find myself again. I got lost. But I feel like everything happens for a reason and I had to hit the bottom to then come back up again.”

James and fame have had a pretty rocky relationship. When he stepped onto the X Factor audition stage back in 2012, he was just the kid with the big glasses, wonky teeth and massive voice from Middlesbrough. Within weeks, the whole nation was talking about him.

SPEAKING OUT And that was a lot to take on – as it would 8

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@SourceMag

“It’s always such a great feeling hearing your song on the radio and seeing the support you are getting – I don’t think you can ever get too used to that” be for anyone. But for James, who had struggled with depression and anxiety in the past, it was even harder. During his time on The X Factor, he suffered panic attacks that almost forced him to pull out of the show – and as he got to grips with fame after winning the talent contest at Christmastime, things steadily got worse, and he turned to drugs to cope.

He’s now an ambassador for mental health charity SANE, and regularly speaks out about his own experiences to try raise the profile of mental health in the media.

“I don’t think people talk about it enough

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and it’s so important,” he says. “If I had known about the help and support you could get, it would have helped me through a lot. Mental health, especially amongst young men, should not remain such a taboo subject and should be discussed more openly.”

And his battle back from the brink has definitely inspired his new material. Now signed to Columbia, his second album Back from the Edge, which hit the number one spot back in October, has a cathartic feel to it – and it acted almost as therapy.

“This album is very much a redemption album,” he admits. “A lot of the writing influences came from that.”

It’s an album where he felt he had to prove himself too. Aside from falling off the radar and parting ways with Syco, he’ll always have the ‘X Factor winner’ tag following him. Does he feel like there’s more pressure on him to do well as a result of the show?

“I think there is always that pressure to try and prove yourself when you come from a talent show,” James explains. “But this time around I just wanted to do things my way and fortunately people seem to have connected to it too.”

PERFORMING And soon they can be connecting with it live. This spring, James is off on a 14-date UK tour, his first major live dates in some time. And it’s the Glasgow show which is standing out for him already.

“Being on the road and performing live is my favourite experience,” he says.

“It’s where I feel most comfortable. I love Scotland, and I have family there. The crowd are always excited and lively up there, and it’s a great place to perform!”

It’ll be the perfect way for James to round off the album’s success. The record has given him the opportunity to play around the world – even on James Corden’s Late, Late Show in the States.

“There are too many now to pick just one, but this whole year has literally just been a highlight,” he says. “Having a number one single and album was a pretty incredible experience.”

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// STUDY

ear. The Say You Won’t Let Go tal health with Source

James’ album Back from the Edge is out now.

Catch him at the Glasgow O2 Academy on 10 March – get tickets from www.ticketmaster.co.uk. @SourceMag

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// WORK

THE

Social Media

GURU

h her PR company, Sheri Scott has a pretty amazing job. Wit moting digital content she’s responsible for creating and pro ses shop Iolla and for the likes of clothing giant Gant, glas t to her about what cult Scottish hair salon #BLOW. We cha z it takes to become a social media whi First things first, how did you go about creating a career around social media?

I think it was a bit of an accident! I always knew I wanted to work in PR and events, and after I started my ia own blog five years ago, social med . that with hand in just went hand ?

What’s an average day like for you There is no such thing as average!

Each work day is completely different with one common thread: lists, and lots of them! I work from home, balancing a mix of retaining clients and project work as well as . my blog and social media accounts my nd behi day my d Mostly, I spen desk, writing, emailing, researching, shooting content – I love that it’s so varied, because when you hit a wall it’s easy to find something else to move on with. tent How do you figure out what con ’t? won t wha will work and With the new(ish) Instagram algorithms, it’s now a lot harder to t figure out what content is the mos n liste I . ence audi your engaging for to my eyes rather than anyone else’s, sticking to my own style of photography and branding. If you’re a brand, it’s important to stick to a theme that suits you and the audience you want to reach.

Is it difficult to balance a brand’s needs and what they think is best with what the audience want? nd Yes, it can be! The challenge is to fi For more inspo and career tips, follow

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@SourceMag

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a way to explain your message the way your audience wants to see it.

It’s all about that spin and how you can portray it in an image or 140 characters or less. Even writing your own personal brainstorm or taking a 15-minute Pinterest browse can really help get those creative juices flowing.

How do you make sure the content is unique to the brands you’re working for?

The internet is a big place and unique content is becoming non-existent. At the end of the day, no one has your voice and if your brand has a clear sense of identity, you don’t need to worry too much about reinventing the ideas content wheel. Sometimes the best else’s eone som nd fi are simple, and if you e shar you, to als appe also that content – that just g bein t it! Social media is abou it. of part huge a is ing Shar social.

Is there anything you wish you’d known when you first started out? n in I really wish I’d paid more attentio ning lear – ge my CAD classes in colle Tube Photoshop and video editing via You ! takes way more time

What are your tips for anyone wanting to excel in multimedia?

Find your own voice, don’t compare ed yourself to others and don’t get suck to easy It’s al. soci into the fake side of ect slip into the mind-set that the perf y, so life is one Photoshopped image awa ectly perf each Take in. ed suck get don’t edited image with a pinch of salt and keep note of the posts that work well for you.

Sheri on her blog, foreveryoursbetty.com

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In the

y e n o m

ACCOUNTANT

Salary: £19k-£50k

Accountants help individuals and businesses to manage their financial matters. They handle tax, carry out audits, and generally offer advice to help people get the most out of their money.

Work can be really varied, and there are different types of accounts you can work in too – audit, tax and advisory. You could be working with wealthy individuals, small local businesses, multinational companies – and your job can take you out on the road and even all over the world. Having a head for numbers, strong communication skills and an eye for detail are all crucial in this line of work.

To become a chartered accountant, there are two routes. You can either go into an apprenticeship, and study towards an SVQ level 2 or 3 and continue on with the company until you gain the relevant accreditation, or you can go to university first before going into an accredited graduate training scheme, where you’ll study exams overseen

by ICAS (the Institute of Chartered Accountants Scotland, www.icas.com).

rs? A career Got a head for numbe you. There’s r in finance could be fo ent roles a huge variety of differ e coming on offer, whether you’r or heading straight out of school education. onto further or higher jobs out there We round up the best

INSURANCE AGENT

Salary: £16k-£80k

Insurance agents, or insurance brokers as they’re sometimes known, work with individuals and companies to find the right kind of insurance to meet their needs. You’ll work in either retail insurance – things like motor insurance, home insurance and travel insurance – or more complex requests in commercial insurance, which includes marine, aviation and oil and gas. You’ll be responsible for gathering information from clients to assess their needs and the risk attached to insuring them, researching different policies, arranging cover, negotiating policy terms with insurers and offering advice to customers.

Most people start out as an insurance technician or trainee broker and work their way up with a brokerage firm.

To get in, you’ll usually need some Highers, or you could go for a degree and join through a graduate training scheme.

Apprenticeships are also available in this field.

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STOCKBROKER

BANKING CUSTOMER SERVICE ADVISER

Salary: £15k-£24k

Also known as a cashier or bank teller, customer service advisers handle a lot of the day-to-day business in a bank, dealing directly with customers. They’ll process payments and withdrawals, deal with enquiries, promote and sell different financial products, set up accounts and help with mortgage and loan applications – and lots more!

You’ll either be based in a high street branch of the bank or in a call centre for telephone banking customers.

You can get started in this job straight from school, with employers usually asking for a few National 4s or 5s to get started. You can also get into this line of work through an apprenticeship – so you’ll get qualified as you work too, boosting your chances of promotion and progression later in your career.

Salary: £24k-£100k

It’s not quite like the Wolf of Wall Street, but it’s still pretty exciting working as a stockbroker, trading stocks and shares.

Brokers usually work for a brokerage firm, and are responsible for buying and selling stocks and securities for clients through the stock exchange. You’re basically investing people’s money for them, identifying stocks that will make a lot of money and selling on when you think the going’s good. You get a fee or commission for each deal done – so it can be really good money.

Most brokers get into the business through graduate schemes, with most asking for a 2.1 or higher.

Some employers look for a degree in management, finance, business, economics or maths. You also need to register with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) before you can trade.

ACTUARY

Salary: £30k-£70k

Actuarial science is a very specialised branch of mathematics which forecasts and manages risk. It’s used in fields like insurance to estimate the cost of death, sickness, injury – actuaries basically use numbers to see into the future!

You’ll find actuaries working in life or health insurance, finance, pensions, investments and more.

To be an actuary, you’ll need to go through a graduate training scheme and work towards accreditation from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (www.actuaries.org.uk). Most grad schemes look for a degree in a related subject – and if you have a degree in actuarial science you can sometimes miss out certain modules in the postgrad training – and at least a 2.1.

FAMOUS FINANCIAL FACES Before they were famous, this lot either studied finance at university, or actually worked in the sector.

Mick Jagger

Before he was strutting his stuff on stages around the world, Rolling Stones frontman Mick was studying accounts and finance at the London School of Economics on a scholarship. Unexpected.

Whoopi Goldberg

The Sister Act star had a variety of jobs while trying to make it as an actor, including working as a cashier in a bank.

Eddie Izzard

The comedian and actor’s dad was an accountant – and Eddie initially attempted to follow in his footsteps, studying accountancy at university. He dropped out before picking up his degree though to give comedy a go – a gamble that certainly paid off financially!

Cate Blanchett

Before she was wowing audiences with appearances in the likes of Blue Jasmine and The Aviator, Cate studied economics at the University of Melbourne. She dropped out after a year to travel – and then fame came calling…

Fred MacAulay

The telly presenter and comedian (you’ll catch him at the Glasgow Comedy Festival this year) studied towards an MA in accountancy from Dundee, and even worked as an accountant before pursuing his comedy dream.

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////STUDY Work

HOW TO GET STARTED IN

From reception jobs at luxury hotels to waitressing and catering, there’s no shortage of employment options in the world of hospitality. Here’s a look at some of the best jobs in this busy, bustling line of work

CHEF

Are you creative, great at multitasking and a whizz with a whisk? Then you might just have what it takes to be an award-winning chef. If you want a long, successful career as a chef (and not be just a flash in the pan) it will take years of skill-building and practise. Luckily, a cookery apprenticeship is the perfect place to build your knowledge and give you a taste of what life as a chef is really like. An apprenticeship in a restaurant or top hotel will teach you the skills you need while working alongside some industry professionals – plus you can work towards a formal qualification and earn a salary while you do it. You’ll be involved in the chopping, prep and presentation of food and be responsible for things like kitchen equipment and stock levels. Before you know it, you’ll be cooking yourself. Watch out, Gordon Ramsay.

Waiting staff

Great at communicating, problemsolving and fast on their feet – being a waiter or waitress is one tough gig. Even if the kitchen is burning down you need to smile and make sure your customers have the time of their lives – so it’s a lot of pressure! On the plus side, being a server is a skill valued all over the world, and it’s a great way to earn money either in your spare time or as a long-term job. You’ll also learn plenty of transferable skills that will come in handy later in life, no matter what you do. Some servers will go on to management roles in the world of catering, while others might choose to open up their own restaurant – so whatever you do in the future, this is a great place to start.

From exclusive boutique hotels and rural B&Bs to holiday parks and youth hostels, there are thousands of places in Scotland where skills in hospitality services and hotel management are required – not to mention in the many luxury hotels and resorts around the globe. If you’re a cracking host and dream of working abroad one day, then training to be a hotel manager could be a great way to get into the exciting travel and tourism industry – and meet lots of great people along the way. Start by researching the big hotel chains – it’s a good place to kick-start your career. Companies like Hilton Worldwide, Premier Inn and Travelodge offer apprentice schemes.

study it

While lots of roles are open as apprenticeships or even straight from school, you can study hospitality in its various guises at colleges Scotland-wide too. Catering and professional cookery, travel and tourism, hospitality management… There’s a course for everyone, from HNC level and up. Check out your local college for more.

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HOTEL MANAGER

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STUDY // WORK//

from lecturer to

MASTERCHEF

© SHINE TV/BBC

Gary Maclean, a senior lecturer at City of Glasgow College, has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry – and he was crowned Masterchef champion in 2016. We ask him what it takes to succeed in hospitality

Q

How would you describe what it is you do?

I feel very privileged to be in the hospitality industry. My day job is that I teach culinary arts to Higher National Diploma students.

This involves a wide range of classes from theory to practical, and a ‘real world’ restaurant. Beyond that, I also run the college culinary team – this involves coaching and training students in national and international culinary competitions.

Q

How did you get started?

I have been very lucky in my career.

My first job was at a hotel in the Trossachs called Forest Hills. My brother worked there on the maintenance team and he got me my start. It was a great kitchen using loads of local produce, so I learned very young great butchery skills and preparation of some amazing game.

Q

What’s a typical day like for you?

My day changes every day; I can spend a double class in theory teaching anything from kitchen design to purchasing, then the next day be teaching professional cookery. At least one day per week I run the college restaurant, Scholars, which provides an opportunity for the students to cook for real customers. I also teach leisure classes to the general public in the evening.

Q

What’s the best part about being a chef?

The opportunities that this job can offer! I have had some unbelievable jobs and occasions, from cooking at Buckingham Palace to catering for Michael Jackson’s kid’s birthday party in New York. It is truly a skill you can take around the world.

Q

And the hardest?

The hardest is the hours that you need to put in. I have missed every family occasion you can think of. Birthdays, nativity plays, weddings – it is very hard for your family and they have to also give up a lot.

Q

What tips and tricks would you like to share with students hoping to follow in your footsteps?

To be a good chef you need to get qualified and work in good restaurants. Don’t chase money early on as having a good CV and qualifications is the key to having a great career. And always work hard!

Find out about studying at City of Glasgow College at www.cityofglasgowcollege.ac.uk

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@SourceMag

SourceMagazine

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20/02/2017 17:13

dern Apprenticeships

Mo Everything you need to know about

APPRENTICESHIPS EXPLAINED

Your frequently asked questions answered

COULD YOU BE A MODERN APPRENTICE? The different apprentice roles on offer

MEET THE APPRENTICES

SCOTTISH APPRENTICESHIP WEEK

Some apprentices share their experiences

www.scottishapprenticeshipweek.com

Check out our guide to getting involved with an MA

6-10 MARCH

APPLY YOURSELF

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APPRENTICESHIPS WHAT IS A MODERN APPRENTICESHIP? For starters, it’s nothing like the telly programme fronted by Lord Sugar.

Apprenticeships don’t require madcap challenges and brutal boardroom meetings – instead, you get a job, you’ll undergo training, gain a qualification and get paid for it all. Pretty nifty.

WHAT KIND OF QUALIFICATIONS CAN YOU GET? All sorts! You can pick up an SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualification), HNC or HND (Higher National Certificate or Diploma), or certificates tailored to your chosen profession.

HOW DOES THE TRAINING SIDE OF THINGS WORK? Your employer will team up with a training provider, who’ll decide the best way to progress. Most training is done on the job, but you could go to day release courses, attend college for a block or on a weekly basis, do training online – whatever suits you and your employer best.

WHO’S HIRING FOR APPRENTICES? Loads of companies! From hospitality to healthcare, transport to tech, employers across Scotland are

USEFUL CONTACTS

Scottish Apprenticeship Week www.scottishapprenticeshipweek.com

recruiting for apprentices yearround. You can get a better idea of the industries looking for MAs and the roles on offer on page 22.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? It all depends on the qualification you’re working towards, your own level of skill and experience and the industry you’re working in. Generally speaking though, they tend to take between one and four years.

APPRENTICE FACTS MORE THAN

37,000

YOUNG PEOPLE ACROSS SCOTLAND ARE WORKING, EARNING AND LEARNING AS MODERN APPRENTICES.

WHAT’S THE BENEFIT? Not only do you get into work, but you’ll be trained how to do a specific job alongside experts in their field.

This is a really hands-on way of learning – your job will help you with your qualification, and vice versa. At the end of it all, you get a certificate and plenty to write about on your CV. It’s a win-win!

ARE THERE ANY OTHER TYPES OF APPRENTICESHIP? Yes! In Scotland, there are two other programmes that operate in a similar way. Foundation Apprenticeships are for those who are still at school – you get time out of class to work with an employer, get a taste for the industry and gain skills and experience while working towards a qualification.

Graduate Level Apprenticeships also exist, where you can study towards a master’s-level qualification.

Apprenticeships.Scot www.apprenticeships.scot

91%

OF MAS ARE STILL IN EMPLOYMENT SIX MONTHS AFTER COMPLETING THEIR APPRENTICESHIP.

96%

OF EMPLOYERS SAY THAT FORMER MODERN APPRENTICES ARE BETTER EQUIPPED TO DO THEIR JOB.

97%

OF MODERN APPRENTICES WOULD RECOMMEND AN MA TO OTHER PEOPLE – SO GET INVOLVED!

Apprenticeships in Scotland www.apprenticeshipsinscotland.com

@SourceMag

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Modern Apprenticeships offer the perfect solution for those keen to get ahead in their career, pick up a qualification and get paid at the same time.

We answer your FAQs on how the whole process works

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NAME Matthew AGE 21 LOCATION Dunfermline JOB Vehicle mechanic

THE ARMY VEHICLE MECHANIC

Recognised qualifications, travel opportunities, once in a lifetime experiences and friends for life – Matthew explains why joining an Army apprenticeship is the best decision he ever made

M

atthew always knew he wanted to join the Army. His dad was a soldier in The Black Watch for 22 years, and suggested that if he joined, he should go for a technical trade. Having the full support of his whole family, Matthew began looking into ways to join the Army.

He found the apprenticeships on the Army website www.army.mod.uk/apprenticeship and began the application process.

Matthew took on board his dad’s advice and decided to join the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) as a craftsman. When he has completed the apprenticeship, he will gain an NVQ Level 3 mechanical maintenance qualification, as well as valuable experience and loads of transferable skills. This will equip him for a rewarding and successful career in the Army, and he will have plenty of other opportunities at his fingertips too.

SKILLS FOR LIFE

Matthew, 21, from Dunfermline, says: “One of the great things about joining the Army’s apprenticeship programme is the career opportunities you get. Once I have completed my NVQ Level 3, I can be promoted to Lance Corporal and then Corporal. I’m on target to pass my vehicle

countries is something I never would have mechanic Class 1 qualification soon, and done if I hadn’t joined the Army”.

I am likely to go abroad with the Army With an Army apprenticeship you’ll within the next five years. There are loads grow as a person too. Matthew explains: of opportunities outside of the Army with “Joining the Army has boosted my all the skills that you gain here too, so I confidence loads. My fitness has know I am setting myself up for a increased, I’m in better shape, secure future.” and I feel more motivated The Army’s apprenticeships all-round. It’s made me more aren’t all work and study “The opportunity open minded and willing to however, as Matthew has to travel and seek new experiences and experienced first-hand. conduct rewarding opportunities that are on They provide incredible work both in the UK offer. The people in your opportunities to travel and unit become like family – engage in once in a lifetime and abroad everyone looks out for experiences. Since Matthew is amazing” each other.” started his apprenticeship, If you’re interested in joining he has represented his unit the Army, Matthew suggests you in cross-country running and find out which role would suit you, and British Army Warrior Fitness events what career prospects and qualifications in the UK. you can achieve from this, by heading to the Army website.

SPORT AND ADVENTURE Search ‘Army Apprenticeships’ online to He has spent three months on an exercise find out where you belong. in Jordan and three months in Norway, Austria and France, where he represented his Army unit doing Nordic skiing.

“The opportunity to travel and conduct rewarding work both in the UK and abroad is amazing”, he says. “Getting to do Army Apprenticeships Nordic skiing in three different European www.army.mod.uk/apprenticeship

GET THE LOWDOWN

@SourceMag

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20/02/2017 15:36

MODERN APPRENTICE? DENTAL NURSE (HEALTHCARE)

ELECTRICIAN (TRADE) Working towards a trade is a very popular reason for going into an apprenticeship – after all, you can’t beat learning on the job! An experienced electrician will instruct you and oversee your training, share their knowledge and give you hands-on experience, all while you earn a decent salary. Most apprenticeships will ask for three National 5s or Standard Grades – in particular, employers might be looking for you to have maths or physics.

@SourceMag

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ADMIN ASSISTANT (ADMINISTRATION) Reckon you’ve got what it takes to run an organised and efficient office? An admin assistant has a big task – they’re in charge of everything ‘behind the scenes’, working hard to make sure their colleagues’ day goes as smoothly as possible. This could mean dealing with the post, manning the front desk and organising the stationery cupboard, but it also gives you the unique opportunity to see how an organisation works day-to-day and learn from all the colleagues around you. Make a good impression at your company and you might get the opportunity to progress up the ladder and nab a promotion that really interests you.

Love looking after people but not sure you’re ready for the gore and shift work of A&E? Dental nursing might be the perfect fit for you.

As a dental nurse, you’ll be responsible for caring for patients and making them feel comfortable during their visit. You’ll also be on hand to provide assistance during check ups and specialist care, and be responsible for sterilising instruments, preparing materials and assisting with record keeping and dental stock.

On your apprenticeship, you’ll work towards a Scottish Vocational Qualification in dental nursing. To get started, maths, English and at least one science subject are often required, as is a PVG check.

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Fancy life as an apprentice but don’t know where to start? With opportunities in over 80 different sectors across the country, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to climbing the career ladder.

So whether you fancy a trade or you’re looking to work in an office or animal sanctuary, we’ve got the lowdown on all the best training schemes across Scotland

SourceMagazine

IT SUPPORT TECHNICIAN (IT) Forget the stereotype of the hoodiewearing geek – the tech business is one of the most popular (and profitable) industries in the world. And don’t worry if you don’t know your Java from your Python, all you need is a willingness to learn. As an IT support technician you’ll learn all the basics you need to excel in the industry, from finding and fixing IT problems to setting up new equipment and upgrading existing systems. An IT apprenticeship is a great way to grow with a company, or even to help you work towards an SVQ in information technology and telecommunications.

@source.magazine

20/02/2017 15:40

MOTOR VEHICLE BODY REPAIRER (AUTOMOTIVE) If you’re interested in how things work and don’t mind getting your hands dirty then an automotive apprenticeship could be for you. As a motor vehicle body repairer you’ll get the chance to learn about repairing complex electronic and software control systems in cars, plus you’ll gain invaluable technical and mechanical skills and get to know exactly what keeps vehicles running safely. You don’t need formal qualifications to enter this job but many employers want you to have a few basic qualifications (like maths and English).

Chat to employers to find out more.

All Modern Apprenticeships are listed online with a full listing of all upcoming vacancies. Take a look at www.apprenticeships.scot or www.skillsdevelopment scotland.co.uk and have a look at all the upcoming opportunities.

HAIRDRESSING (BEAUTY)

ANIMAL CARE WORKER (ANIMAL CARE)

Always dreamed of styling celebrity locks on the red carpet? Well, this could be your first step! Securing an apprenticeship at a local salon is a great way to build on essential skills and learning from other top stylists around you. Plus you’ll pick up great transferable skills thanks to serving customers and dealing with everything from payments to appointments. It may start off small – sweeping the floors, making tea and washing hair – but before you know it you’ll be cutting and colouring alongside the professionals. If you’re good with people, eager to learn new techniques and are ready to work hard, this could be the perfect start.

If you love being surrounded by animals, this apprenticeship is a great way to get qualified to work with your furry friends. You can spend your days helping animals living in kennels, catteries or rescue centres, making sure they stay healthy and happy.

You might be assigned to an animal sanctuary or rescue centre and be responsible for looking after critters that are injured or distressed, so being good with animals is a must. You’ll also get the chance to work alongside trained specialists while gaining hands-on experience with admin tasks like records, bookings and advising customers. Most employers look for you to have qualifications at Nat 5.

AMBULANCE TECHNICIAN (HEALTHCARE) Dreaming of flashing blue lights, thinking on your feet and being put in exciting situations? You may want to consider life as an ambulance technician. Working alongside an ambulance paramedic guarantees no two days will be the same. Your key responsibilities might involve lifting patients, looking after specialist equipment and, in some cases, driving responsibly and rapidly – so good driving skills are a must. You would need to complete the Diploma in Emergency Care and an additional four weeks’ driving training to accident and emergency standard. Employers also like to see Standard Grades or National 4s in English and maths. Plus, this exciting, fast-paced job could be your first step towards becoming a fully-qualified paramedic. Not bad! @SourceMag

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20/02/2017 15:38

I

left education at the age of 17 after finishing my first year of A-Levels and deciding education was just no longer for me. Two years later and I’ve found myself working with the Red Arrows!

After applying to join the RAF, I completed a 10-week basic training course at RAF Halton, which taught me standard military skills and set me up for the next stage of my career.

NEED TO KNOW

that I was very happy with. Currently I am travelling all over the world with the team and I’m mainly involved in the servicing of the aircraft and working alongside the engineers.

My family are extremely proud that I decided to join the RAF. My dad loves that I am part of the Red Arrows, so is forever talking about it or posting things on social media!

“My dad loves FUTURE PLANS that I am part of the In the future, I want to Red Arrows, so is continue to travel with the RAF – both overseas forever talking about and around the UK. it or posting things I am only 19, so I still have on social my whole career ahead media!” of me.

Before I got my first proper posting (job) with the RAF, I also completed a six-month trade training course which taught me the technical side of the job.

The courses set you up for the rest of your career and taught me everything I needed to know, which meant I didn’t require an engineering or technical background before joining.

I was posted straight to the Red Arrows at the end of my training, which was a complete shock, but a posting

If I could choose my next posting, it would be to a squadron to work on fast-jets such as Lossiemouth in Scotland, where they have both the Tornado and Typhoon.

But, for now, I am more than happy travelling to countries I have never been to before with the Red Arrows.

You can watch Ellie’s story and a whole host of other clips now on the RAF Recruitment website by simply searching ‘RAF No Ordinary Job’.

GET THE LOWDOWN

RAF Apprenticeships www.raf.mod.uk/apprenticeships

NAME Ellie Morgan AGE 19 LOCATION Scampton JOB Aircraft technician

RAF AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN

When Ellie decided to leave school at 17, she began to look at other options. Now, she’s she working as an aircraft technician with the world-famous RAF Aerobatic Team – the Red Arrows

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20/02/2017 09:24

KNOW YOUR STUFF

GET APPLYING

All apprenticeships are different depending on the industry – the training elements will be based on the employer’s needs in that sector – so make sure you understand what you’re applying for.

More importantly, there are different grades of apprenticeship, so make sure you are applying for a position that takes you beyond your current qualifications.

For example, if you’ve got good Highers, take a look at apprenticeships at level 4 and above. If you left school without Highers, look into level 3 apprenticeships as a stepping-stone to level 4.

Once you’ve found an apprenticeship you like the sound of – it’s time to get organised! Make a list of everything you’ve accomplished so far, whether it’s exam results, part-time work, volunteering or work experience, and pop it into either the application form or your CV. Make sure to include all the information they ask you for too, and always double check your spelling.

ALWAYS TAILOR IT

FIND A JOB

Job descriptions or ads are always a good starting point to see what kind of apprentice they are looking for. Take a look at all the buzzwords they use – from time-efficient to detail-orientated – and make sure you somehow incorporate these into your CV or application.

Employers will always know when you have done a copy and paste job, so take the time to read about the business and the industry and make sure to explain why you are the perfect candidate.

Apprenticeships are offered directly by employers, who advertise them just like other jobs. Check out mainstream job sites like s1jobs.com and Indeed.co.uk, or head to specialist sites like www.apprenticeships.scot or www.apprenticeshipsinscotland.com.

SHOW INTEREST Don’t apply for things you know you aren’t suited to. While it’s important that you are willing to learn and complete the qualification, you’ve got to be passionate about the role too. It doesn’t matter how little experience you have, just so long as you can show some interest. Think of your application or CV as your portfolio: if you want to be a journalist then this is your blog; if you want to get into directing then it could be your YouTube channel. Anything you do in your spare time that contributes to your dream is valid.

GIVE EXAMPLES So you know the company inside out and you reckon you’re the perfect fit. But how do you prove it? A cover letter is the perfect place to go into more detail, taking snippets from your CV and giving examples of why your skills match up to the role. Think of what the company is looking for and demonstrate how you have already achieved that through extra-curricular activities, work experience or school or college accomplishments.

YOURSELF

Into the idea of an apprenticeship? We round up what you need to need to do before you start filling in those application forms

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17/02/2017 15:36

// ADVERTISING FEATURE

THE TECHNICAL ENGINEER Ever wondered what the training component of an MA involves? We find out about Gary McNelis’ experience of learning with Glasgow Clyde College alongside his day job

NAME Gary McNelis AGE 24 LOCATION Greenock JOB Technical engineer

Come Along to Glasgow Clyde College’s Modern Apprenticeship Open Days

G

workplace by the NHS and assessors in ary McNelis graduated from undertaking the SVQ Level 3 award.

Glasgow Clyde College in 2016.

Gary’s hard work and commitment He studied at the College throughout his apprenticeship and training from August 2013 whilst working as an saw him recognised within the Faculty of engineering technical apprentice with Engineering and Built Environment NHS Greater Glasgow. at the College, where he won Throughout his time at the the title of Apprentice of the College, Gary developed a Glasgow Clyde Year two years in a row. great thirst for knowledge.

He also gained success He showed his teachers College work with outside of college, when he and employer that he was a wide range of achieved the Incorporation really keen to learn and employers to deliver of Hammermen Award. And continually improve his Modern he got great grades too. ability and experience, with Apprenticeship During his apprenticeship, the goal of becoming a multihe completed the SQA skilled technical engineer. training National Certificate mechanical When Gary first enrolled at engineering award and more the College through his employer, recently the HNC engineering systems he had already obtained an IMI Level 3 award - and he got an A in the graded unit Diploma in automotive engineering, giving exam with a final mark of 88%. him a great grounding in the concepts of Having seen such success during mechanical and electrical engineering. his apprenticeship, it’s only a matter of Gary attended the Anniesland campus of time before Gary bags his dream job in Glasgow Clyde College on a full-time basis engineering… in the first year, combining the National Certificate with the SVQ Level 2 element of the engineering apprenticeship.

After successful completion of the Level 2 and the National Certificate qualification, Gary returned to college, progressing onto the HNC engineering systems qualification Find out more about apprenticeship and study on a day release basis. In conjunction with opportunities with Glasgow Clyde College at the College, Gary was supported in the www.glasgowclyde.ac.uk

GET THE LOWDOWN

@SourceMag

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SourceMagazine

The College’s open days are running during SDS’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week. You will have the opportunity to meet potential employers and discuss the apprenticeships they can offer you. The Anniesland campus will also be running Engineering tours where you can see state-of-the art equipment and talk to the lecturers responsible for training apprentices.

Wednesday 8 March 10am until 1pm Anniesland Campus

The following companies will be attending this event: SEMTA, RollsRoyce, BAE Systems, Thales, Tell Training, BEMIS, BT Openreach, Clyde Marine Training, SCVO, Carrick Spa, ITC Training Academy and Positive Qualities.

Thursday 9 March 10am until 3pm Langside Campus

The following companies will be attending this event: NHS, BEMIS, BT Openreach, East Kilbride Group Training, Clyde Marine Training, SCVO, Carrick Spa, ITC Training Academy and Positive Qualities.

For more information, please call 0141 357 6190.

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20/02/2017 15:43

NAME Ailish Lavelle AGE 20 LOCATION Giffnock, Glasgow JOB Waste water treatment operator

WASTE WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR W

hen Ailish left school, she headed to college to study hospitality management – and quickly realised it wasn’t for her.

She started racking her brains for what to do next – and she soon found herself on the Scottish Water website, reading about their Modern Apprenticeship opportunities.

“I fancied a career change and came across Scottish Water,” she says. “I was quite interested in chemistry, so I applied for the waste water treatment job. I also thought the opportunities with Scottish Water were great. It appealed to me – getting paid while I was learning, and getting qualifications as well.”

ON THE JOB

In August, she got started with the company, who are responsible for maintaining water and sewerage services across Scotland. Ailish works as an apprentice waste water treatment operator. She’s based in one of their big waste water treatment works, where all waste water is cleaned before being returned safely back into the environment.

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Twenty-year-old Ailish Lavelle from Giffnock in Glasgow is off to a great start in her new career with Scottish Water.

She tells us more

throughout the course of the job, under the watchful eye of her works,” Ailish explains. “You more experienced colleagues, check for the ammonia to but there is also a broad range “Everyone check it’s at the correct of additional courses with supports you and levels, you maintain the many transferable skills treatment works, check and life skills. And once they’re willing to readings daily – that’s the answer your questions. she’s got her qualifications? day-to-day role.”

Ailish is keen to stay at There’s great career Scottish Water. She says: With her new role progression involving some elements of “I hope to work my way too.” science, it is different from up the career ladder to her initial career plans, but the management level.”

20-year-old couldn’t be happier Ailish is off to a great start with with the choice she’s made. the company – but would she “Everyone supports you and they’re recommend the apprenticeship willing to answer your questions,” she experience to others? says. “I enjoy working outside. No two “Definitely – you learn on the job, you days are the same. It’s exciting and gain qualifications and gain money as interesting, working with water. And well!” she says. “You get put through all there’s great career progression too.” your training, and they really look after you. It’s great experience too, learning from people who already know the job.”

QUALIFICATIONS As part of her apprenticeship, Ailish is working towards an HNC in water operations management, which she’ll Scottish Water’s Modern Apprentice achieve at the end of her fourth year. At recruitment process will open in March of this the moment, she’s working on an SVQ in year. Head to www.scottishwater.co.uk to controlling process operations. A great deal of the training is delivered on the find out more.

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GET THE LOWDOWN

@source.magazine

20/02/2017 15:44

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20/02/2017 09:47

W

hen Connor Waldron signed up to the first “pathfinder” Foundation Apprenticeship in engineering, he had no idea it would lead to his first job and being named Foundation Apprentice of the Year at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.

Connor gave up his Friday afternoons and time during the summer and Easter holidays to go to West Lothian College. He completed the work-based elements of his Foundation Apprenticeship in Fleet Services at West Lothian Council.

“When I was at school I thought I didn’t need a qualification to show people that I can work hard. Then I was really surprised when I got to go to college. I felt it was a make or break situation for me, but really wanted to make a go of it,” he says.

COMMITMENT

His commitment paid off, because the former St Kentigern’s Academy pupil now spends his days repairing heavy plants and lorries as an HGV vehicle maintenance Modern Apprentice with West Lothian Council.

The Bathgate teenager was one of 700 applicants for two Modern Apprenticeship positions. He seamlessly continued his apprenticeship journey, showing how a Foundation Apprenticeship can give young people the skills and experience that employers need, and help get them ready for work.

Connor’s depot manager Joe Drew believes the Foundation Apprenticeship training gave him the skills to ‘hit the ground running’, and his colleagues were impressed by how quickly the 17-year-old learned.

Joe says: “We were also really impressed with the level of maturity and commitment to study demonstrated by Connor during his Foundation Apprenticeship. It was obvious he wanted to pursue a career in engineering and he seemed to thrive in the work environment.”

TEAM WORK

WHAT ABOUT...?

FOUNDATION APPRENTICESHIPS

Did you know you can get started on the apprenticeship route while you’re still at school? Connor did exactly that – and he’s now on his way to an exciting career in engineering

A normal working day for Connor involves replacing tyres, fixing brakes and making other repairs on council vehicles, from vans to refuse lorries. When he started, he admits he could barely lift some of the items in the workshops, but now feels a real part of the team.

“The people in the team have been great, and there’s real satisfaction in what we do. I really enjoy it. The best bit of my job is when you have fixed something on a truck or car and then you see someone driving off in it and you think, ‘I fixed that,’” explains Connor.

When he received his award at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, Connor said: “I can’t tell people how much the Foundation Apprenticeship has meant to me. It has been incredible and I would say to anyone to go for it. It will open up so many opportunities for them, in the same way it has done for me.”

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“The people in the team have been great, and there’s real satisfaction in what we do. I really enjoy it.”

GET THE LOWDOWN To find out more about Foundation Apprenticeships visit www.apprenticeships. scot/foundation @source.magazine

20/02/2017 14:46

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20/02/2017 09:28

// STUDY GET INTERACTIVE

STUDYING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE ISOLATING

Simple re-reading of your notes is never enough – you’ve got to get interactive.

Try the SQ3R system: skim (S) the chapter or topic for five minutes to get a sense of what it’s about, then make up a question (Q) that an exam board might ask you on that topic. Next is the three Rs: read, repeat and review.

First, read carefully the part of the text that contains the answer, close the book then either write it down or repeat it out loud. Then review the passage to check your answer. It might not be the quickest way to do it (it’ll take around 15 minutes per question) but it’s the most effective way to learn.

People assume that revision means absolute silence, but studies have found that some students work better with a ‘presence’. That could mean surrounding yourself with people at the local cafe or library or just working with a friend. Not sure you want to leave your desk behind? Bring the hustle and bustle of a cafe to your desk with sound apps like coffitivity.com or rainycafe.com.

STUDY SESSIONS Exam season is right around the corner – but with all that pressure, how are you meant to keep calm and carry on? We look at the best study techniques, tips and tricks, and even ask for some insider tips from former students who’ve been there and done that to help you breeze through it all

TEACH YOUR PARENTS WHAT TO AVOID

Trust us, the stress isn’t just getting to you – your ‘rents are probably tearing their hair out too. It’s important to remember they are trying to help, so resist the temptation to snap every time they bring up the subject of revision.

Instead, suggest that certain words or questions are off-limits until after exams – for example you could ban them from saying the words ‘lazy’ or ‘fail’. Be nice though – they’re the ones buying you revision biscuits and making the tea.

GET SOME SLEEP

Research shows that sleep is a vital part of memory and learning; it’s when you snooze that memories form properly. Try not to use your phone or laptop while in bed to assure yourself some kip – no one wants to mess up an exam because they got hooked on cat videos the night before...

GET MORE EXAM REVISION TIPS AT SOURCEMAGAZINE.ORG.UK @SourceMag

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17/02/2017 15:48

// STUDY

SWITCH OFF

Your teachers and parents are probably going to tell you to limit time on your phone or iPad – but sometimes you need access to the internet. What you don’t need though is to be procrastinating with online shopping or social media.

Apps like Self-Control or Freedom can be installed to limit access to certain sites, meaning you’ll be blocked from Topshop or Instagram for a predetermined set of time. Good for your bank balance AND your brain.

BEWARE OF BURN-OUT

Obsessing over your grades can lead to overworking and unnecessary stress – and in the end, your grades will only suffer. Try to get the balance right by taking regular breaks and scheduling time for treats or fun activities that you love. Exercise is great for boosting endorphins so keep a pair of trainers beside your desk and go for a de-stressing jog or walk when it all gets too much.

NOTHING COMPARES TO YOU!

Don’t constantly compare yourself to your classmates and friends – everyone is doing different topics and subjects, and your workload can vary. Instead, focus on all your achievements so far. Write down everything you’ve already accomplished, even if it’s not perfect. Taking stock of what you’ve already done will give you 100 times more motivation to take on your next task.

STRUCTURE YOUR TIME

Avoid the trap of only revising your favourite subjects. Creating a structured timetable will help you to divide your time evenly between all your subjects. Try working in 45-minute sessions with ten-minute breaks built in, and cover several subjects in one evening – it’ll stop you from getting bored and keep your mind active.

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TIPS FROM THE OLD FOLK

(Former students)

“I recorded myself chatting through any topics I struggled with and made them into podcasts. Sometimes I would even get someone I thought was better at the topic to explain it and I would listen to it whenever I could – on the bus, on a run, even when I was sleeping!”

Dougie, junior doctor “If there are past papers available, you’ve got to steam your way through as many as you can find. I always thought I worked better if I did them in exam conditions too – the extra pressure kept me focused!”

Laura, PhD student “Good stationery was the only thing that kept me going – good stationery and mind maps.” Rhea, civil engineer “When I was revising for my French writing exam, I would write everything, sentence by sentence, on a whiteboard. So I would write one sentence then rub it out, two sentences the rub it out, then three. I kept going until I could write my whole essay off by heart.”

Emma, French and law graduate

“I learn best when I’m listening – so group learning and watching video lectures on YouTube worked for me.”

Tom, biomedical engineer “Any time I was struggling, I grabbed someone from my class and asked them to talk it through with me. It always really helped.”

John, geologist “Read through all of your notes, break everything down into smaller topics, and then reduce it right down to a sentence. Keep going until you remember everything by only looking at one single buzzword. When you get into the exam, seeing that one word will bring it all flooding back!”

Josie, English literature master’s student “Buy a huge pack of A3 paper and write all your notes on that – whether it’s for mind maps or quotes – and stick them to your walls. Trust me, you can fit a lot of information on an A3 bit of paper! And you have no excuse for not studying – it’s there.”

Kirsty, LLB graduate

@source.magazine

17/02/2017 15:48

We have the technology

The UK requires modern, battle winning forces to defend its interests and to contribute to strengthening international peace and security.

These forces increasingly depend on scientific and technological advances to maintain their ability to operate effectively; this means the provision of technologies of tremendous speed, power and capacity to deliver a decisive operational edge.

We are: The Ministry of Defence, Defence Engineering and Science Group.

Organisation Description: Government Department. The DESG is the team of thousands of engineers and scientists within the MoD.

DESG offers you many benefits including: 1. One of the very best graduate development schemes for engineers and scientists available in the UK – fully accredited by IMechE, IET, RINA, RAeS, IoP and IMarEST. 2. Considerable investment in support of your personal professional development; along with a wide range of exciting placement opportunities (including placements in industry).

3. An accelerated path to Chartered or incorporated status in your engineering or science profession; with the DESG it’s possible for you to achieve professional Chartership in just four years.

4. A truly rewarding career. MoD projects are fascinating, valuable, unique and sometimes highly classified.

Degree Disciplines required: A multitude of engineering disciplines, including Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Systems Engineering, and many more.

Applications: Now open for applications. Apply on-line via our website (click ‘How to Apply’).

www.gov.uk/mod/desg

The MoD is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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20/02/2017 16:10

STUDY // STUDY //

The best

STUDY APPS for exam season

With cat videos, live streams and snaps taking over our lives, it’s no wonder we’re struggling to stay focused when studying.

But what if your phone could actually increase your productivity? We take a look at the best apps to get you in the zone

BEST FOR

BEST FOR

BEST FOR

Springpad (iOS and Android; free) Springpad lets you grab notes, snippets of web pages, images, links and write lists which you can keep in virtual notebooks. Plus you can set reminders to keep you on track, and make your saved content as open or private as you like. Handy when you want to share something with your study buddy!

SleepBot (iOS and Android; free) We all know stress (and late-night Netflix) can wreak havoc with our sleeping patterns, so get back on track by charting how you snooze. Slip your phone under your pillow and this app will monitor your sleep phases based on noise levels and how your body moves.

By monitoring signals from your body, the app is able to wake you softly when you are in the lightest possible sleep state, meaning you’ll feel less groggy – and more productive – during the day.

Luminosity (iOS and Android; free with in-app purchases) Want a distraction that actually boosts your brainpower? Designed by neuroscientists, Luminosity offers a daily programme of mini games created to challenge your memory and attention span. It will also help you chart your progress to see how your problem solving and brain flexibility improve.

SLEEP TRACKING

ORGANISING NOTES

BEST FOR

EASING STRESS Headspace (iOS and Android; free with in-app purchases) Developed by a former Buddhist monk, this app knows a thing or two about helping you chill. Audio and video recordings are there to guide you through various breathing and meditation techniques that will reduce stress and calm your heart rate. Ten days of Headspace meditation has been shown to have wide-ranging benefits, from improving relationships to reducing stress. Emma Watson is already a fan.

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BEST FOR

MAKING LISTS Wunderlist (iOS and Android; free) A simple to-do list app is essential when revising. You can sync it together with your iPhone, iPad and web apps, set due dates and reminders and even share tasks with friends. Your study day just got ten times easier!

SourceMagazine

BRAIN TRAINING

BEST FOR

TRACKING DAILY MOVEMENT Stand Up! (iOS; free with in-app purchases from 79p) Spending so much time at a desk can lead to a whole host of health problems, from heart disease to diabetes – not to mention memory problems, lack of focus and anxiety. Coax yourself out of your seat and allow your mind and body to take a break. Stand Up! can be customised to your work timetable, sounding an alarm at regular intervals to remind you to get up and walk about.

@source.magazine

17/02/2017 15:51

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20/02/2017 09:50

// TRAVEL CRAYOLA™ FOR CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICKS So you don’t necessarily NEED these limitededition lip balm/lipstick hybrids, but they are nice. (£18, www. clinique.co.uk)

IOLLA SUNGLASSES You’ll be catching everyone’s eye on the beach with these amazing sunnies.

top shops

(£65, www.iolla.com)

PLAY PURSE GIFT SET From makeup to a first aid kit, keep all your essentials looking cute with these jazzy little cases. (£50, playpurse.com)

JUNGLE FORMULA MAXIMUM AEROSOL INSECT REPELLENT Yes we sound like your mum, but just trust us on this one

of the

Jetting off somewhere hot over the Easter break? Here are all the travel essentials you need to help you look cool in the sun

(£9.99, www. boots.com)

BRANDY MELVILLE CAP Stay cool and sunburn-free (win-win!) in this stylish corduroy cap from Brandy Melville. (£11, www. brandymelville. co.uk)

SUNJELLIES BAG How many beach reads do you reckon you could fit in this bad boy?

INSTRMNT WATCH Never miss a flight again with this uber cool watch.

POLAROID ZIP INSTANT PRINT MOBILE PRINTER AND 10 SHOTS Print your fave snaps straight from your phone! (£99.99, www.argos.co.uk)

BAN.DO PASSPORT HOLDER You won’t want to come home, but it does mean you can keep using this stylish case. (£20, www.johnlewis.com)

(£17.50, www.sunjellies.com)

LUNA ON THE MOON LIPS CLUTCH Just because you’re travelling doesn’t mean you need to leave the glamour at home, right? (£50, www.etsy.com)

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SourceMagazine

(£180, www.instrmnt.co.uk)

@source.magazine

20/02/2017 15:45

g n i r e e t n u l vinosri lanka

// TRAVEL

When Travis Tucker got the opportunity to spend two weeks of his uni summer holidays in Sri Lanka, he jumped at the chance.

The real estate student told Source all about his experience

I

magine spending your summer holiday working with Sri Lankan child monks and their elder counterparts, building on projects in their village, teaching them English and witnessing a colourful Buddhist festival featuring music, dancing and even elephants. Sounds like a dream, right? For Travis Tucker, it was a reality.

The 21-year-old, who’s from London, has worked with a youth centre near his family home for years. When he went home during the holidays from the University of Royal Agriculture in Cirencester last year, he stopped in to catch up with the team – and they offered him the opportunity of a lifetime.

“Because I’d worked with them for such a long time, they asked me if I would do something with them over the summer,” Travis says. “I wasn’t doing much, so they asked if I’d like to go to Sri Lanka with them. I’d done things like that with them before and I thought, ‘This is a new challenge, I’ve never been to Sri Lanka before – might as well!’”

In the summer holidays, Travis and a group of seven others from the centre packed their bags and headed out to volunteer in a Sri Lankan village with Give a Fig Volunteering. Give a Fig is a not-for-profit organisation who work in schools, colleges, universities and villages alongside the government and local people in Sri Lanka to make change and development possible on various different projects.

NEED TO KNOW

“The project that we were in was based in infrastructure, so we were

based in a village, building walls and painting,” he explains. “But it was so much more than that. We were also helping the young people in the village, teaching them English, and helping the elders with English as well, while participating in some of the monk rituals that they had to do.”

The volunteers dedicated four days a week to volunteer work during their two-week stay, where they would take it in turns to teach or do building work, putting up walls and painting.

The villagers would make them lunch, and they got to spend time with the locals too. Give a Fig also organised a mini tour to the beach and other sites for the team on their days off – well deserved after all their hard work!

LEARNING

During his volunteering placement, Travis learned a lot of new skills, from teamwork to communication, and he became a lot more grateful for what he has after seeing so many people going without. But for Travis, the highlight had to be witnessing a colourful festival one evening at the Sacred City of Anurdahpaura, where they were staying, known as a Pera Hera. “I loved volunteering and helping people, but I had never experienced anything like that,” he says. “We have Notting Hill Carnival, but that was totally different. Villagers jumping up and down, elephants passing by – you can’t beat that!”

Now, Travis is planning his return to Sri Lanka with Give a Fig, and he’s hoping to work on his university dissertation over there this summer.

“It was a great experience,” he says.

“I would definitely recommend it.” @SourceMag

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FIND OUT MORE For more information on Give a Fig Volunteering, head to www.giveafigvolunteering.com.

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17/02/2017 16:41

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20/02/2017 09:29

y Am

STUDY //// CELEBS

H...

10 MINUTES WIT

Macdonald

lks to Scottish Kirsty McKenzie ta y Macdonald singer-songwriter Am hosting empties, about skipping uni, and writing songs album number four n for Bruce Springstee

Did you always want to get into music?

I was actually meant to go to Strathclyde for uni in 2006 to do social sciences but I had just signed a recording contract.

I asked them if I could defer my entry, but then in 2007 my album came out and went to number 2 in the UK, so I didn’t ever get back in touch. Maybe they’re still waiting!

What were you like when you were a teenager?

I would just lock myself up in my room and play songs on my guitar all night. But I had a lot of crazy parties. My parents would go away in their caravan most weekends so on Fridays I would be straight on MSN: “I’ve got an empty!” It was only recently my mum admitted that she knew. She told me: “I knew there was a party every single time. But you always made such an effort to clean it up.”

What was the inspiration behind your new album, Under Stars?

There isn’t really one theme – every song has its own tale behind it. With my previous albums, I did everything on my own; it was just me and the guitar.

But this time I started writing wee silly songs with my band while we were on the road and we decided to try and write something properly together. It was totally alien to me but it just seemed to work. It clicked and we were able to write these songs that we were really proud of. All of these songs come with great memories – we had such a laugh doing it. I’m just excited now they’re out there and I can’t wait to get touring.

What was it like to write songs with other people?

Automatic was actually the first song I ever co-wrote. Me and my bandmates were really embarrassed, and we were struggling to come up with anything because we were too concerned about putting our feelings out there. So we decided to change it up and pretend we were writing the song for someone else.

So we wrote a Bruce Springsteen song!

And as soon as we did, we relaxed into it a bit more and it felt easier. So for me, it was quite a cool way to get inspired and get over my fear of co-writing.

Was Springsteen a big inspiration for you?

Yeah. There’s a great quote from him where he talks about how he creates tracks that people can dance to because people don’t want to come to a gig and be bored. Although the songs sound happy and uplifting, he’s like, ‘I had to suffer to write that!’ That is the perfect way of describing my music. A lot of my songs are upbeat but they are never truly positive. If you listen to the words they’ve got a tinge of sadness. @SourceMag

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Read more from our interview with Amy now at www.source magazine. org.uk

SourceMagazine

Under Stars is out now. @source.magazine Sourcemagazine.org.uk 41

20/02/2017 15:18

NOT-SO PICTURE P We’re a nation of social media addicts – but are the snaps, Instagram pics and Facebook updates doing us more harm than good? We explore how social media affects how we see ourselves –

T

ake a quick look through your Instagram feed. What do you see?

Shots of friends Facetuned within an inch of their lives, grinning and having fun. Celebrities posing with their latest expensive freebies. Gorgeous shots from holidays in far-off exotic destinations.

It’s all so perfect. And when you take a look around yourself to see you’ve got a mountain of studying to do, your last haircut didn’t quite go to plan and that massive spot on your chin just won’t go away, it’s hard not to feel envious of those gorgeous Insta updates – and it’s even harder not to feel down about yourself.

Whether we’re comparing the way we look, what we’re wearing, the places we’ve

been or it’s a case of good old-fashioned FOMO (fear of missing out), the polished stories we’re presented with on social media are starting to have an impact on our mental wellbeing and the way we see ourselves.

Charity Childline reported last year that they’d held over 35,000 counselling sessions relating to low self-esteem and unhappiness – a worrying nine per cent increase on the previous year. And they reckon social media has had a big impact.

NEGATIVE IMPACT

Research carried out by Petya Eckler, a lecturer at the University of Strathclyde, and staff at the University of Iowa and the University of Ohio in the USA, found that

YOUR VIEW: MY STRUGGLE WITH BODY CONFIDENCE Student and blogger Lynnsay shares her battle with body image Body confidence is something I have struggled with for a long time. Growing up, I always thought that I was too fat and was constantly trying different diets to lose weight.

However, recently my struggle with body confidence got more difficult. After a skiing accident and subsequent surgery last year, I put on a lot of weight. Everyone around me told me that I’d lose the weight easily after my surgery, but that didn’t happen. A lot of my clothes didn’t fit me anymore and it made getting dressed in the morning a distressing task. Each time another pair of jeans didn’t fit, my self-confidence would take another blow.

I started dieting and became meticulous about my eating habits. During this time I even got food poisoning – and I was almost glad that I did because it made me lose a few pounds. However, even after losing some weight, I didn’t feel any better about myself.

Before my university’s Christmas ball, I saw an unflattering picture of myself in my dress

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and it made me so self-conscious that it just ruined my night. The next day, I looked at the picture again and I found that I didn’t look nearly as bad as I’d thought. I had let one picture ruin my entire evening and I felt so angry with myself afterwards. But it made me realise something important.

I am done with the diets, fitness accounts on Instagram and unrealistic #bodygoals that I set for myself before. Happiness is not determined by the number on the scales or on your clothing. It’s your mindset that will affect the way that you feel, and learning to accept yourself the way that you are is what will bring you the self-confidence you’ve always wanted.

Check out Lynnsay’s blog at www.sartorialscot.com.

SourceMagazine

while social media isn’t causing low selfesteem, it’s definitely contributing, and those with lower self-esteem in the first place are more likely to feel a negative impact. The academics surveyed college-aged women in the States to find out more about the real impact of Facebook use on their self image and body confidence.

“People who already have some selfesteem issues or body image issues perhaps pay more attention to certain aspects of social media than others, which exacerbates these issues,” Petya points out. “We found that, in general, more time on Facebook led more women to compare their bodies and weight to other people’s body and weight.

We also saw there was more attention paid to how other people looked, and more negative feelings about their bodies.”

Last year, mental health charity See Me Scotland urged the public to look beyond the shiny side of social media that’s getting us down, and to get sharing our ‘unfiltered lives’ instead, forgetting filters, editing apps and perfectly posed selfies to show what life is really like. Lisa Cohen, See Me programme manager, said: “When every picture you see on social media is set up, filtered and looks perfect, we want to show that actually, it’s OK not to be OK.” The #myunfilteredlife hashtag exploded, with fashion bloggers sharing images of themselves in their pyjamas, foodie Instagrammers confessing to cooking disasters and some people even sharing photos of medication which helps them cope with their own mental health struggles.

FILTERED

From Instagram to Facebook, Snapchat to Twitter, we’re all sharing heavily edited versions of our own lives to match up to what’s expected of us. Whether it’s that upbeat status about acing an exam when in fact you’re terrified you’ve failed, or a picture that’s had a bit of help from Valencia, our social media feeds are brimming with content that’s not showing the full picture.

@source.magazine

20/02/2017 15:48

w a

es

////HEALTH study

PERFECT

we’re sharing round the clock and how to keep positive So how do you get beyond that?

Nobody wants to ditch social media altogether – and we’re not saying that every post has to be a brutally honest reflection of your life. But if you find your feed is getting you down and you want to stop comparing yourself to others, what steps can you take? Turns out, filtering is the answer here too.

“You can’t tell your friends not to post something,” Petya says.

“But I think we need to be more self-aware of what kind of content makes us feel bad. Maybe there are certain people who make us feel bad – you just have to filter certain people out. Remember that not everything on social media is as it seems.”

GETTING HELP If you find yourself feeling down about the way you look, or your life more generally, it’s good to talk about it. You can call Childline on 0800 11 11, or try Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87.

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17/02/2017 16:51

// WORK

Notorious

nails She’s the Insta-famous nail tech with her own incredible salon in Coatbridge – but how did Tracy McGoogan make it? Our favourite sparkly-taloned Scot shares the secrets of her success with Source

How did you get started out as a nail technician?

It was always something I’d done as a hobby, and after 11 years of a boring office job I decided to do something far more exciting! I’m very creative and wanted a way to make a living from this. Plus I love playing with glitter!

When did you go for it and set up Notorious Nails?

I set it up in April 2014, and it was just me in a tiny room with lots of polish and glitter.

The studio you work in now is gorgeous – what was the inspiration behind it?

Because it’s in an industrial unit, I wanted to keep that theme but keep it quirky. It’s quite hard to make an industrial unit welcoming, but I think we achieved it. Lots of colour is key!

You’re huge on Instagram – how would you say social media has helped the business?

Massively. It always surprises us that people from all over the country know who we are, and lots of our clients travel long distances to get to us. They wouldn’t know we existed if it wasn’t for our social media following, and for this we are forever grateful.

What’s the best part of your job?

Every single day is different, our clients leave with a smile on their faces, we hear lots of gossip and we often have a singalong!

What’s been your career highlight so far?

There’s been lots! My work appearing in magazines, working at the Burberry fashion week, and becoming an educator with my own training academy are all up there.

Can you tell us a bit more about the new nail academy?

We have been contacted lots by our followers asking if we do training courses and it was always something I have wanted to do, so when I was lucky enough to have been chosen by INK London to teach on behalf of their brand I was delighted. Our training academy is next door to our studio and will be able to seat six to eight students on any one course, from beginners to advanced.

What’s your career goal?

I’d love to open more studios and, you know, if Beyoncé ever calls, I’m happy to be her personal nail tech!

What’s your advice for anyone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Come to one of our courses! But if you can’t… It takes a lot of hard work, commitment and passion. Be creative and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it!

Notorious Nails, Unit 4 Coatbank Way, Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, ML5 3AG Phone: 01236 899 273 // Instagram: @notorious_nails_ // Facebook: notoriousnailscoatbridge 44 Sourcemagazine.org.uk

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@source.magazine

20/02/2017 14:48

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20/02/2017 09:35

// CELEBS

M.O.

Watch out Little Mix – there’s a new girl gang here to take over the radio waves! We caught up with M.O’s Nadine to talk musical influences, being on tour and backstage diva behaviour

I

f you don’t listen to these girls already, seriously – where have you been? Nadine, Frankee and Annie – otherwise known as M.O – are the 90s-inspired girl band that everyone is talking about. Nick Grimshaw and Mistajam are already fans, and the girls have even toured with the ladies from Little Mix. “Leigh-Anne is actually a really good friend,” says the band’s Nadine. “We love them, they are all just normal – really nice girls.”

We just get along, we click. It’s all about being comfortable in your own skin and happy, running around with no makeup on and having fun. There are no divas – just three normal girls.”

And it’s certainly working so far – together the girls have over 350k followers, and their single Who Do You Think Of? took the Top 40 by storm, shifting more than 300,000 copies. But success hasn’t always been straightforward. Before M.O, Nadine and Annie performed in another band called Duchess, but the four-piece broke up in 2011. Luckily, the two girls went on to join forces with Frankee and form M.O – and of us the rest is history.

BACKSTAGE FUN So what’s the gossip from the tour? “You know what, all I “None can say is that we laughed are divas – it a lot and ate lots and lots of wouldn’t work CONNECTION food,” laughs Nadine. “No if we were” crazy stories, just lots of “We just had this immediate eating! It was unreal – we just connection and knew exactly had so much fun.” And Nadine is what sound we wanted,” says quite firm that that’s as wild as things Nadine. “We love the same music got on the road.

– old school R&B and garage with hard “None of us are divas,” she explains. beats. We do genuinely feel like there’s no “It wouldn’t work if we were. That’s the one like us out there.” good thing about us; we just all get along The girls all site 90s girl bands TLC, En so well. It’s not, who’s the mum, who’s Vogue and SWV as big influences, but it’s the messy one – it’s not any of that stuff.

Drake who had the biggest impact of all.

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@SourceMag

SourceMagazine

“Drake’s The Motto was playing, and in that song there’s a line, ‘That’s my M.O’,” says Nadine. “And all of us looked at each other, and were like, ‘Oh my God! M.O!’” We googled it and saw that it’s a word for how you achieve your goal and dream. And all three of us just turned to each other and were like, “That’s it. That’s exactly what we’re about.’”

M.O’s single Not in Love is out now.

@source.magazine

20/02/2017 16:47

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20/02/2017 09:38

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20/02/2017 09:39