Way2Go - North East 15

issue 15 | february 2008

INTRODUCTION

WELCOME to issue 15 of W2G North East, your local magazine aimed at giving teenagers help and advice when it comes to careers and education.

In this issue we take a look at what the Chemical / Process and Nuclear industry have to offer DOH! We also look at careers within Northeast councils, International Hospitality. NHS and loads more.

We have advice on Apprenticeships, get the low down on the Duke of Edinburgh Award and hear about other young peoples experiences within their chosen career path.

To help you chill out a bit, we have playtime, this month we cast our eye over some of the latest Games, DVD’S, CD’s and films to hit the streets including Transformers and Pro-Evolution 2008.

Distinctive Publishing LTD 24 Lancaster Street Summerhill Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 6EU T: 0191 2983571 F: 0191 2983561 John Neilson Sales Director john.neilson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk Ewan Waterhouse Business Development Manager ewan.waterhouse@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

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MOVIE REVIEW I Am Legend Directed by the same man that brought you Constantine, Francis Lawrence brings you this epic movie staring Will Smith (Men in Black, I Robot). He plays Dr. Robert Neville, the last man on earth, who realises that a man made virus reversing the effects of cancer is not all it’s made out to be, resulting in the complete wipe-out of all human life on earth a few years later. We soon find out however that the virus didn’t wipe out all life on earth, it just changed it. Leaving Smith to find a cure. With a stunning performance by Will Smith, and Sam the Dog, I Am Legend could be 2008’s best sci-fi thriller.

Favourite Quotes: “God didn’t do this, we did”.

“Please say hello to me”

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DVD REVIEW Transformers From the genius director that is Michael Bay (Pearl Harbour, Armageddon) comes an incredibly well directed reinterpretation of the well-known and well-loved cartoon that should bring out the little boy in every male viewer. Staring a young and promising Shia LaBeouf (Bobby, I Robot) and the gorgeous Megan Foxx (Hope and Faith), Transformers is an incredible display of special effects in a tale of two robotic clans at war with each other leaving planet earth’s fate hanging in the balance. For me this was the biggest scifi, action adventure film of 2007 and with various DVD extras this is definitely a good investment to entertain all the family.

Favourite Quotes: “No sacrifice, No victory”.

“Sir. Just ask yourself...

What would Jesus do?”

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MUSIC REVIEW Foo Fighters Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace With previous Foo’ albums I’ve been amazed by the fact that each track has had the power to be charismatic and exiting no matter how heavy it was, even for the people who don’t like heavy rock music. For me the album ‘One By One’ (2003) was perfect, every song was great and the album could be played over and over. On their latest effort some of the songs have been well written and are tolerable, however lack that little bit more that you always seemed to get with one of their ‘older’ albums. One thing I must say is that the two songs that have been released to date ‘The Pretender’ and ‘Long Road To Ruin’ are the reason that I bought the album. I cannot get enough of these tracks and think that this may be the reason the rest of the album seems a little slow. It is for this reason that makes me partly regretful for buying the whole album.

Favourite Tracks:

The Pretender Long Road To Ruin Once And For All (demo)

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GAME REVIEW Pro-Evolution Soccer 2008 (X-Box 360) The latest edition to this epic football game completely blows all competition out of the water. In truth the last version of Pro-Evo’ on X-Box 360 was quite poor, a lot of people preferred the PS2 version. This year it was a different story as one thing has been said about Pro-Evo’ since it has been released is that the game play is completely flawless, however, the graphics could use some improvement. This is not the case any longer, whilst reviewing this game I found the graphics and the standard of game play to be impeccable. My only complaint now is one that has stayed with the Pro-Evo games since the beginning, licensing. If only this game were a little more official I’d have given it 5 stars.

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North East based design student Binyahmeen Hussain has won the top prize in a design competition run by the Learning and Skills Council in the region.

The competition launched in July was open to all school and college students across the North East region with the brief to design an individual glass gift which was to be hand made by specialists at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland and presented to thirty senior members of staff from around the region in recognition of their work for the LSC. The Learning and Skills Councils are responsible for college funding across England and tapping into student and pupil’s talent and skills made absolute sense.

Binyahmeen, known as Binny to his friends and tutors was first made aware of the competition by his tutor. Knowing Binny had completed his required course work he was encouraged to consider entering the competition and began to explore ideas for creating a glass paper weight.

He researched the design and production techniques both in books and on the internet.

Having researched the production and design aspects of creating a paperweight Binny embarked on his submission to the competition and was amazed to receive the news in September that he was the winner!

This success is a major achievement for student ‘Binny’ as previously he had struggled to find success within school or college. Having left school in Middlesbrough with only one GCSE Binny first tried college at 16, however, he soon left to take up an apprenticeship, but this didn’t give him

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the satisfaction he craved. Having developed an interest in art and design Binny began to look again at what was on offer for students outside of the traditional GCSE and A level curriculum and his eye caught upon the BTEC design courses offered at his local Cleveland College of Art and Design.

Binny is now in the second year of his BTEC National in Design having successfully completed the first year and previously completing a one year BTEC first Certificate in Design at the college.

Having wowed the judges with his winning entry Binny was invited to deliver a short illustrated talk about his design and ideas at a presentation evening in Durham Castle. Here Binny was also presented with his own keepsake of his achievement – a copy of his own paperweight to display on his desk at college.

Binny is currently exploring Product Design degree courses at universities both in the North East and further afield. He is just about to make his application and will be the first in his family to progress to higher education. His parents are suitably proud of his achievements.

Tutor at Cleveland College of Art and Design Tony Gabliks commented on Binny’s success saying, ‘’ when Binny began his college education he had very few qualifications and didn’t have a clear idea about his future career. He now has a definite path to follow in the world of design’ Tony went on to say, ‘Binny received support from the Aimhigher team at the college and was given access to a number of activities to encourage success and progression to next level courses. The Aimhigher input has been really valuable in giving him ‘one to one’ quality tutoring that has helped his written work and has also helped his project planning.

A close partnership between tutors and Binny developed, with commitment and enthusiasm Binny has demonstrated that when you have a true desire to follow a career anything is possible. Binny has been focussed and eager to learn, but it has been the ‘working together’ aspect that has been the key to making it all happen. He has a very bright future ahead and he may be a design celebrity in the future! Lets wait and see….’’

We wish Binny continued success in his chosen field.

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30 year 8 pupils at Walker Technology College, Newcastle, were the first ever to become ‘Star Students’ for the day in November by playing a brand new giant board game ‘Star Student’ To make the day even more special Hollyoaks actress Sinead Moynihan, who plays Beth Clements in the hit soap, made a special trip to the North East to chat to all the Year 8 pupils about Higher Education, in a special assembly, before rolling a giant dice to officially start the game with one class group.

‘Star Student’ is a giant floor game devised by staff and students at Northumbria University. The aim of the game is to introduce the idea of Higher Education at a very early age, but in a fun and interactive way, and to inform younger pupils about university social life, finance, courses, careers and qualifications.

To play the game pupils move around the board as giant counters, taking part in individual and group tasks designed to test knowledge, learn about Higher Education, and give a feel for what University life is all about. One of the main features of the game is that pupils get the chance to meet current undergraduate students, as the game is delivered by the ‘Star Student Reps’ a team of fully trained current Northumbria Students who work part-time with Northumbria University’s Education Liaison team on a range of different activities and events.

Sinead, who had not previously visited the North East said, ‘I was delighted to be asked to launch the Star Student game here at Walker. It’s a fun way to inform younger people about higher education – I wish there had been something like this for me to take part in when I was this age.’ Sinead went on to say, ‘I play a university student in Hollyoaks and I would definitely recommend higher education to anyone – it’s a fantastic opportunity to get a qualification and to experience so many other things. I know the Aimhigher initiative wants to get the message across that all types of people go to university now and with universities like Northumbria developing activities like the Star Student Game it allows younger people to meet real life university students and dispel some of the myths about what a university student is’ Sinead went on to ‘crown’ year 8 pupil Carla Jones, a representative from the winning team, with a mortar board and gown and then spent time chatting to pupils about her role as Beth and the lifestyle of being a famous soap star.

‘Star Student’ has been devised and produced by Northumbria University’s Education Liaison team and the Star Student Reps, with support and funding from Aimhigher – the project which aims to widen participation in Higher Education by raising the awareness, aspirations and attainment of young people from under-represented groups. Currently around 30% of the pupils at Walker Technology College go on to higher education and it is hoped that by playing the Star Student game and taking part in other activities and events funded by Aimhigher more young people with the potential to progress to university take up the opportunity.

‘Star Student’ will be taken to 15 schools across schools in Tyne and Wear throughout November, December, and January. Lee-ann White, Education Liaison Officer at Northumbria University said: “This game was devised in order to bring University to life in a way that Year 8 pupils who are aged 12 or 13, could relate to – and want to take part in. We trialled the game with pupils and the feedback was tremendous. After the launch it is full steam ahead, and the star student reps are fully booked to host the game in schools across the North East. The response to the game so far has been amazing, I knew there was a need for aspiration raising activity in Year 8 but I did not expect to be fully booked so quickly. We will be extending the opportunity into the New Year for schools who were unable to participate this time round.”

ake m 16 r e d n u d e g a le p o pe Did you know? – young e and Wear n Ty in rt o sp n a tr c li b u 17% of journeys on p all journeys f o x si in e n o d n u ro a s – that’ Nexus takes young people seriously – you’re our passengers of the future.

We want you to feel happy using public transport so it will remain your first choice for years to come.

Public transport provides you with a reliable and safe route to school – and valuable independence for teenagers.

It lets students travel further to attend the courses they want to study and to meet up with friends and get to great days out.

Nexus spends £3,500,000 a year on providing a network of 300 Scholars’ bus services to carry 14,000 pupils a day to school.

If you’re still at school, and live in Tyne and Wear, make sure you’ve got an Under 16 Card – you need it to prove you’re entitled to the reduced child fares. 57,500 of you already have an Under 16 Card - and you make 8 million journeys per year. Just show your Under 16 Card to the driver or inspector to pay concessionary fares (40p on weekdays until 7.00pm) – and you’ll also get cheaper commercial

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fares on evenings and weekends. If you haven’t got an Under 16 Card – pick up an application form from any Nexus TravelShop, or download one at nexus.org.uk.

If you’re aged 16 or over and at sixth form or college, you’re no longer entitled to child fares – but there’s a money-saving season ticket available for virtually every type of public transport journey for 16 to 19 year olds.

Whether you just use the same bus or Metro every day to get to classes or make lots of different journeys to your friends, the shops or your part-time job – there’s a money-saving ticket for you. Arriva, Go North East, Stagecoach and Metro all provide special passes for use on their services, and Network Ticketing’s Teen Travelticket is valid on all of them. All these passes will save you money to spend on more interesting things – especially if you currently pay single adult fares every day!

Have a look at www.how2get2.co.uk.

It’s aimed at 16-18 year old students and gives you all this information plus loads more. It includes timetable information for buses, scholars services and Metro, as well as news items about public transport that are relevant to you. You can sign up to be sent an

email if there are problems on Metro, or renew your Teen Travelticket or 16-18 Metro Student Card online. If you need to get somewhere you’ve not been before, use the online Journey Planner to help you get there.

If you’re under 16 or 16-19 but not in further education, visit www.nexus.org.uk, for fares and public transport information for you.

Or pop into a Nexus TravelShop – to pick up timetables and buy season tickets – and help from our friendly trained staff in planning your particular journey. Or phone the Traveline on 0871 200 22 33, for information about all public transport services in Tyne and Wear.

New for 2008

If you’re moving to Gateshead College’s new Baltic Campus on Gateshead Quays, you’ll be able to take advantage of the bright yellow electric QuayLink buses. Service Q1 stops at the Hawks Road stop, right outside the new campus , and connects you with Gateshead Interchange, Newcastle city centre and Newcsatle’s Central Station.

Visit nexus.org.uk/quaylink for full route and timetable details .

nexus.org.uk/quaylink

When you mention the NHS it’s always Doctors and Nurses that spring to mind, but there are loads of different career opportunities that might have your name written all over them.

There are over 300 different careers in the NHS and you can find information on many of them on the Step into the NHS website. Not only that, but some NHS employees have been brave enough to broadcast themselves to the entire planet with case studies, diary room videos and various other video insights into the NHS. The National Health Service offers a huge range of exciting and challenging opportunities for people who are passionate about making a difference and there is a job for you no matter what your interests, skills or qualifications.

So if you want to find out more why not check out the site at www.stepintothenhs.nhs.uk and see if a career in the NHS could be just what you’re looking for.

For the NHS a typical day includes: n Over 835,000 people visiting their GP practice or practice

nurse

n Almost 50,000 people visiting accident and emergency

departments

n 49,000 outpatient consultations n 94,000 people admitted to hospital as an emergency

admission

n 36,000 people in hospital for planned treatment n 28,000 sight tests being carried out n 18,000 calls to NHS Direct

Why not have a look through the careers A – Z section to see how your skills and qualifications could fit into a career in the NHS. You see it’s not all about university degrees you know! the NHS is committed to offering development and learning opportunities for all full-time and part-time staff. No matter where you start within the NHS you’ll have access to extra training and be given every opportunity to progress your career.

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Is that all the Nuclear industry offers?

The National Skills Academy for Nuclear is a new organisation which has been developed by Nuclear employers to aid in the training of people in the Nuclear sector. The Skills Academy works with employers and partner organisations to ensure that the Nuclear industry has the skills and resources it needs to remain a World-Class industry. One of the main concerns of nuclear employers is that statistics show the number of people choosing to study Science each year remain relatively the same, and the nuclear industry need an increase in new recruits- around 1500. So we thought that we would work with our partner organisations to provide you with further information on what the nuclear sector has to offer.

But firstly……

What do you know about the nuclear industry?

Cogent Sector Skills Council did some research into young peoples’ views of the nuclear industry, here are a few words used to describe it: Controversial Uncertain Explosive Scientists in white coats Men with radioactive power suits Nuclear waste …. Homer Simpson!

n n n n n n

There is much more to this industry than meets the eye… it’s a big and economically important sector with around 56,000 employees around the UK. It’s got an exciting future and there are a range of roles for those interested in getting on the career ladder.

In fact many of the students who were interviewed said they would like to know more about this important industry – admitting they did not really understand what it was all about.

And some said they’d already had great experience of guest speakers from the nuclear industry at their school.

Despite what many people might think, nuclear has one of the best safety records going. It also produces fewer greenhouse gases, unlike all the fossil fuels and is considered to be a “greener” form of energy.

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All UK nuclear wastes are safely managed; in fact the UK has managed its radioactive waste safely for over half a century!

You might not know that the UK’s nuclear industry provides the country with about 20 per cent of its electricity via the National Grid and the electricity distribution companies. This saves the equivalent of the carbon emissions from all the UK’s cars on the road Nuclear energy is based on uranium, which provides an important long term energy supply, The biggest challenge for the industry is the decommissioning of the older nuclear power stations which were built in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s, a programme which is already underway. The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) has the responsibility for managing this and is decommissioning 20 nuclear sites safely, securely, and cost effectively, while at the same time protecting the environment.

This is an extremely long term plan which includes activities well into the next century. It needs many qualified and highly skilled people to make sure that the work is carried out safely and securely. And this workforce will need to be replenished by new recruits coming on board for a long, long time to come.

Other important areas of the industry include the fuel cycle, where uranium is made into fuel, used in the power station to produce electricity and recycled or disposed and the defence industry – the sector also provides the power for all the Royal Navy’s submarines.

The industry also includes a wide variety of contractor companies such as engineering and construction companies, makers of specialist equipment and providers of expert services.

What has the Nuclear industry got to offer?

There is a dedicated website www.cogent-careers.com which shows all the roles in the nuclear industry - including where the job fits into the organisation, the work area, the key responsibilities, and the typical day-to-day duties which the post-holder will be expected to carry out. Education and qualification requirements are also set out – and of course the salaries.

If you joined the industry you could start out, for example, as an Operations Support worker, carrying out checks and applying safety rules. You could end up as the Site Director – overseeing everything! For the entry roles you’ll need good GCSEs and higher up the ladder you’ll need a Degree in Engineering or Science and for the very senior jobs you’ll need to be a Chartered Engineer or Scientist.

The Future The government is considering increasing the use of nuclear power plants within the UK. Supporters of nuclear power say that it provides a key component of a balanced energy portfolio, which will result in a reduction of emissions of green house gasses. Whilst renewables such as wind and solar power will also contribute significantly to cleaner energy, they cannot produce enough to meet UK demands.

Interested in science?

The nuclear industry needs more young people to take up science, engineering and technology subjects. Our research shows that the industry needs about 1500 recruits per annum – at a time when the uptake of science is fairly static.

The Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) have produced 4 information booklets detailing further information on the nuclear sector.

Nuclear Energy Past, Present and Future Energy, Society and the Nuclear Alternative Nuclear Energy in the environment Radiation, Health and Nuclear Safety If you would like a copy of these please e-mail: nikki.powney@niauk.org And finally…

Complete Cogent’s questionnaire for a chance of winning a PS3.

Cogent have asked employers what they want from you so that you can make the best choice about your future.

Now, they would like to hear what you think of our industries, and about your experience of learning science, technology engineering and maths.

Go to: www.cogent-careers.com/quexis

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cy, One NorthEast, Future Funded by regional development agen g people with the Entrepreneurs was set up to provide youn stay in business. Many necessary skills to help them start up and the project including individuals have been supported through and communities. young people, teachers, entrepreneurs involved in Future Entrepreneurs To find out more about how you can get educationfutures@rtcnorth.co.uk

Over 50 teachers from the region experienced a new programme of enterprise development delivered by RT C North. The first pilot was held in March last year in County Durham and the second in October in Newcastle.

The Enterprise Champions De velopment Programme aims to equip tea ching staff from around the region with new enterprise methodologies and the oppo rtunity to consider a whole new schoo l approach to

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contact us now at

enterprise education. Worksh op modules include enterprise and entre preneurship, communication, risk, enterpris e capability and the ability to generate an d progress new ideas.

Some teachers commenting on the development programme sai d:“A lot of new ideas for appro aching enterprise activities in the cla ssroom” Fiona Herbert, Mortimer Prima ry School “I found this a very enjoyable and interesting event, it is especially useful to meet other people who are interested in championing enterprise” – Rob Walker, Be nfield School

Young People with learning difficulties from Cramlington have been improving their business skill s with help from staff at RTC North, Sunderland based inno vation company.

The trainees from Cramlington Youth Project took time out of their programme to learn skills to set up a mini business. The young people have been painting and decorating garden pots , making jewellery and cards, baking cakes and potting up vegetables to sell at their mar ket sale which took place on at the centre in Cramlington Village.

12 teachers took for a tour around the Greggs production facility at Balliol Park, Benton in November last year.

The visit included a presentation from the company providing background information,

Julie Gibson, Project Development Wor ker at the centre said “The enterprise program has been a great success, with all proceed s raised going to support youth centre activitie s.”

Mike Hawkins, Project Management Senior Specialist at One North East sampled some of the produce at the market stall and also presented certificates of achievemen t to all of those involved.

an in depth overview of recruitment and career progression opportunities within the company and finally a tour around the company’s production facilities. The production tour was very impressive. This site alone produces the following products annually…. n n n n n

Sausage Rolls … 86 million Steak Bake … 26 million Cheese Pasties … 23 million Chicken Pasties … 18 million Other … 43 million

The visit proved to be very informative with all delegates enjoying the factory tour and the testing of the pasties and sausage rolls!

RTC North will be hosting a number of visits to regional manufacturing companies during 2008. For more information, please contact us on 0191 516 4400 or email educationfutures@rtcnorth.co.uk 19

Could your school teach the rest of us a thing or two about enterprise?

Regional Development Agency One NorthEast is kicking off its annual search for the most enterprising place in North East England - and we’re looking for entries from schools, colleges and universities across the region.

If you’re building a social enterprise through your school or college, trying to solve a problem in your local area or testing out business ideas on other students or your teachers and lecturers, we want to know about it.

Your school might have invited local businesses into lessons to talk to you about being your own boss; your college might be raising money for charity by selling products you’ve made; or your students’ union might have launched an innovative new service on campus.

Whatever your school, college or university has been doing to inspire or promote enterprise, you can nominate it for the regional title if you can show the work has either helped your community or got students more interested in self-employment over a specific period of time.

The winner gets a special trophy, the recognition of being the region’s most enterprising place, and goes through to the UKwide competition.

If you still need some inspiration, turn the page to read about how last year’s winners are helping young people in Bishop Auckland get tuned into their DJ and MC skills.

But if you’re already raring to go, it’s easy and free to enter – here’s how to do it: 1. Visit http://www.onenortheast.co.uk/page/ competition2008.cfm, leave us your contact details and we’ll send you everything you need to apply.

2. If you need any more information, contact One NorthEast’s Enterprise Team on 0191 229 6400

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Fast Facts about Enterprising North East England: n The competition’s run by

Regional Development Agency One NorthEast n The winner goes forward to compete for the title of ‘Most Enterprising Place in Britain. You never know, you might even make it to the European finals! n Your school may already be working with one of the previous winners of the North East England title. The Tyneside Economic Development Company goes into schools across the region, showing young people how to develop a can-do attitude and putting them in touch with real-life entrepreneurs and business experts who can tell them what it’s like to be your own boss - and to see your ideas become reality n Last year, only one college and one university entered the competition - so we want to see more entries from young people!

England may be out of Euro 2008 but another big test of the nation’s ball skills is just getting started - and it all revolves around enterprise.

Make Your Mark, a national campaign to inspire young people about what it means to be enterprising which opened a new base in the Tees Valley last year, wants you to ‘Make Your Mark with a Ball’ in aid of Sport Relief.

The idea is to get thousands of you in North East England using your enterprising skills to come up with the most creative ways to raise cash using just a ball.

It can be any type of ball you like - from cricket and rugby to juggling and stress balls, and you could:

n Sell your ball – negotiate the lowest price possible to buy it,

then sell it on for a higher price

n Add value to your ball - buy a ball and get it personalised,

designed or signed by a celebrity, or change the ball into something else n Create a service using your ball – organise training sessions with local sports personalities, run tournaments or competitions n Organise a sales competition – ask your school to buy every student in your year a cheap ball, then compete against each other to see who can make the most profit with it. You could even compete against your teachers. n Sponsorship – get people to sponsor your ball to see how far it can travel

There’s lots more information at www.makeyourmark.org.uk/withaball, and that’s also where you can enter the competition – either by yourself or as part of a team. The deadline to get your entries submitted is Sunday 16 March, and the winner will be announced on 31st March.

Good luck!

Things are far from ‘going Pete Tong’ for young people in one County Durham town. In fact, it’s quite the opposite - thanks to a bit of help from the current Enterprising North East England title holders.

Young people at the Four Clocks Centre in Bishop Auckland are learning to DJ and MC, developing their own sounds and ideas, and training with professionals.

The town centre forum, whose marketing and promotions subgroup won the Enterprising North East England competition last year, stumped up £8,000 so the programme could buy state-of-the-art new equipment and bring in an expert to teach the students the skills they’d need to DJ at top level.

The sessions are so popular that the organisers believe they could fill them several times over every week. And while some people might ask how learning to scratch and mix can help you develop business skills, Doug Hill from the centre disagrees: “The young people are learning about planning, communication, leadership, managing their time and working together - even before you get to the technical skills involved in setting up and using the equipment. You couldn’t hope to set up your own business without these sorts of skills, and they’re also what will set you apart from the pack with a potential employer.”

And the young people themselves couldn’t agree more.

Josh Barr, 17, says: “The work we’ve done at the Four Clocks has made me believe that there really is a chance that I could work in music for a living.”

“I really look forward to the sessions each week - I spend days deciding which records I’m going to play, and it’s

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made me feel a lot more confident on and off the decks,” adds 15 year old Lewis Blakey while Matthew Koch, 18, says the funding they’ve had has taken the project to a new level: “The new equipment has made a big difference to the shows we’ve done. People turn up and see us as a more professional group, which makes us feel more professional too.”

Many of the students are already having a go at leading the sessions themselves, and this year they hope to start training other young people from nearby youth centres.

I really look forward to the sessions each week

They also want to take the lead on organising events to show off their sounds – managing promotion, ticket sales and working with venues.

It remains to be seen whether the next Deep Dish, Sebastian Ingrosso or Sander K will come from Bishop Auckland, but there’s no doubt that the skills young people are learning here could carry them way beyond the decks and the mic.

If you want to find out more about the Four Clocks DJ/MC project, give Doug a call on 01388 665038.

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elopment of We are a UK charity dedicated to the dev develop the personal young people. We help young people cessful life. qualities they need for a fulfilled and suc llenging The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a cha to learn you programme of activities which help enture adv e new skills, help others and experienc ment. ieve ach of and it will give you a great sense as such What’s more, many organisations view of employers and universities take a good on who pers the ut the Award and what is says abo has achieved it.

Who is it for?

the age of 14 and The Award is open to anyone between ed, just a need not are ons 25 years. Special qualificati go. a have to willingness

What will I get out of it?

New talents and abilities team The ability to lead and work as part of a n actio and ht thoug of Independence— An awareness of your potential A sense of identity rs in the The ability to learn from and give to othe community Self-belief and self-confidence New relationships A sense of responsibility

What does it involve?

—and, for each, There are 3 levels—Bronze, Silver and Gold ons: you complete activities in four Secti Service—helping people in the community Skills—covering almost any hobby, skill or Physical Recreation—sport, dance and

interest

fitness.

leting a Expeditions—training for, planning and comp . cycle or boat by , back horse or foot journey on purposeful Residential Project (Gold Award only) - a n to the enterprise with people not previously know participant.

How long does it take?

nt to achieve a It takes at least six months for a direct entra months for Gold.

18 and Silver for hs mont 12 d; Awar e Bronz

Participants can work on various sections of their Award at the same time.

Who runs the Award?

Award groups are run by adults, many of whom are volunteers, including youth workers, parents, teachers, employers, trainers, Instructors, Assessors and individuals from the community, all of whom wish to share their skills, enthusiasm and organising activities to help young people reach their potential. over 400 The delivery of the Award is entrusted to Programme. the run to sed licen UK the in ons organisati

Support your local Award

ly on the The success of the Award depends large orting their supp and ng runni teers volun generosity of back into your Award groups. If you want to put something de quality provi We h. touc in get e pleas , local community ies. training and excellent support facilit

Be part of something big!

years! We help The Award has been running for over 50 st reach of any wide the year— every 275,000 young people ty chari youth

Contact your North East office: Web: www.theaward.org Email: northeast@theaward.org Phone: 0191 270 3000

TUC

Together, councils are the biggest employers in the North East, with more than 100,000 people working for them. The work of councils touches almost every aspect of our lives, from cleaning the streets to helping to improve the environment and the regional economy.

This means there is a huge range of career, training and job opportunities within the region’s councils. A new website - www. careersincouncils.co.uk - describes some of these careers and opportunities. It contains links to other useful sites and current job vacancies within North East councils. It also provides real life examples of young people who are now working in councils, possibly yours. They include young people working as apprentice civil engineers and horticulturists, social workers, tree surgeons, countryside rangers, librarians and personnel assistants.

There are also examples of young people working in human resources, housing, and as part of a highly prestigious national graduate development scheme.

Two examples of young people working for councils in the North East of England are shown on these pages.

For jobs directly from school, after university or apprenticeships, councils really do offer an exciting choice for young people.

Local councils will give you the chance to do a job you enjoy, and make a positive difference to the lives of the people and communities of the North East.

Best of Luck Councillor Mick Henry Chair of the Association of North East Councils

“I like the fact that the work is varied, and it gives me job satisfaction to know that what I do makes a difference”

Helen Carlton, 26, is a Countryside Ranger for Gateshead Council “My job is to make sites accessible and safe for visitors and carry out conservation work for wildlife.

“I work at Thornley Woodland Centre, near Rowlands Gill, and I see Red Kites, Roe Deer, badgers and dozens of squirrels every day.

“I did an environmental biology degree at Newcastle University.

Most of my uni mates have ended up going into jobs in industry but I wanted to have a job where I was out and about.

“It is great to have an active job that involves being in the great outdoors. I get a buzz when I point out wildlife to visitors to Thornley and enhance their enjoyment of the day.

“There are a few more boring aspects of the job, for example we have to do some litter picking and write reports.

“We tend to do a lot of weekend work because that is when most visitors come, but I get time off during the week to compensate.

“I’ve wanted to be a countryside ranger since I was four or five when I used to come to the junior nature club at Thornley. It is great to be following my dream career.”

Simon Green, aged 20, is a Personnel Assistant at Northumberland County Council “I carry out personnel and administrative work that includes identification and Criminal Records Bureau checks. I issue contracts of employment and deal with pension queries.

“I was on a Modern Apprenticeship for over a year and the opportunity arose for a permanent position for which my line manager at the time actively pursued on my behalf.

“I like the fact that the work is varied, and it gives me job satisfaction to know that what I do makes a difference.

“It is great to have benefits like flexi-time, a regular salary, working for a large and established organisation, pension scheme, extensive on the job training and generous holiday entitlement.”

For more information on the careers and opportunities within councils in the North East of England, and for links to many of their current job vacancies, please visit: www.careersincouncils.co.uk

Participants in celebratory mood at an Inspired Learning ‘New Business Start-up’ workshop at Riverside Cricket Ground, Chester-le-Street.

Managing Director, Dennis Laverty says that the greatest fear for anyone thinking of starting their own business is ‘The Fear of the Unknown’. It is the ‘Not knowing what it is that we don’t know!’ This is because there is a gap in our education system which prevents us learning about enterprise too early – ‘Nobody leaves school with an …ology in Business Planning’ – This is not because they may not be interested – it is because the opportunity to learn has not been given to them. Yet, Governments and Regional Development Agencies provide vast funds to try and attract people to start their own business later in life. Thinking about starting a business after our formal education has been completed means that we have not been made aware of what it is that we need to know in order to start, and to run a successful business.

The problems for people who would like to start their own business is rather dramatic in the North East in that the national average for start-ups is 42 per 10,000 population whereas the rate in the North East is still only 23 per 10,000. It has been identified that more has to be done to help those in the North east who may want to start their own business, but are not ready to formulate business plans and work through conventional business start-up – That is where Inspired Learning come in.

Inspired Learning have been running Awareness Events throughout the North East to promote a series of short workshops which are aimed at helping all those people who:

n Have a business idea but are unsure as to how to start n Have a business idea but don’t know if its viable n Would like to run their own business but haven’t thought of the business idea All workshops are run by Inspired Learning and are held, either in the evenings or at weekends, at times that are convenient to those who will be attending. The good news is that it costs aspiring entrepreneurs absolutely nothing to attend as the pre-start programme is funded by One North East.

To find out more about the Inspired Learning programme, or receive a list of workshops in your area, Contact Marian Gibson: Tel: 0191 268 6269 E-mail: mail@inspired-learning.co.uk

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The Durham and Chester-le-Street Connexions team led by Chris Peverall, are continually undertaking new work and projects including innovative ideas for ways to support young people as they make choices about their future. Durham’s recent initiatives include is the introduction of the ‘14-19 Personal Adviser’ and becoming a ‘c-card’ contact point.

14-19Advisers: Personal Advisers have previously worked either with students pre-16 in schools or with those over 16 who are looking for education employment or training. But sometimes at the end of education you need a little extra help for a bit longer. The new role means is that the adviser who sees you in school will be the same adviser you see until you don’t need any more help from Connexions. This new way of working started in summer 2007 with the advisers working in 11-16 secondary schools to provide some longer term support to those who need it. “c:card” Contact Point: Personal Advisers have been trained to operate a safe confidential sexual health advice and condom distribution scheme. This has not only brought more people into the centre, but advisers have been able to help with a number of other personal issues.

The Durham City Connexions Centre based in the newly redeveloped Millennium Place has held a number of open days and events to get the young people of Durham involved in activities to encourage them to develop skills that will give them the best chance to progress in their lives. These events have included DJ Workshops [where young people can learn to mix n’ scratch like a professional club DJ], Izzy Arts [non permanent tattoo artist], Graffiti Art and games.

Earlier events included martial arts displays and fitness demonstrations from Durham City Leisure. As well as fun based activities, young people also access the careers, job search information, advice guidance and support which you

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would expect from us.

Getting you involved at School Personal Advisers working in schools are always looking for ways to bring an element of fun to their work and make the learning experience an enjoyable one. Recently, in Durham Johnston School, the PAs Judith and Lou worked with groups of students on a range of issues including: Health, Stress Management, Alcohol, Smoking and Exercise. These were active sessions where students got involved in making posters, dressing up, singing, dancing, and generally making the decisions about how to put the message across in an entertaining manner. There was laughter and fun-a-plenty. The response from the students was fantastic! All the hard work in bringing these events about was rewarded by positive comments from school staff too.

Supporting Good Choices In Gilesgate Sports College, two large scale events were organised.

An ‘Employability Skills Day’ saw staff go in to school to undertake mock interviews with year 11 students in preparation for applications to college, sixth form, training, or jobs. Each student was interviewed with a job role in mind and had to tell the interviewer why they should get it by highlighting their personal qualities and skills.

The Careers Day for Years 10 & 11 involved local opportunity providers including Durham Sixth Form Centre, New College Durham, BL Hairdressing, the Armed Forces, DISC and JHP Training. Students were able to meet representatives and complete applications at the event; this was particularly useful for those will no plans for after year 11.

Help with looking for Work The recently created ‘Job Club’ which aims to equip young people with the skills to find suitable jobs or training has got off to a great start. Sessions have included: identifying job types, accessing job vacancies, alternatives to employment, mock interviews and CV preparation. The participants have also enjoyed working with the Connexions ‘Motivational Activities’ Team on outdoor activities such as archery, ski-ing and high rope sessions, with these leading to an ASDAN qualification.

Out and About with Connexion Connexions can get you involved in activities which can improve personal and social skills. Trips have taken place Sunderland AFC and Newcastle United football stadiums, to the Forbidden Corner in North Yorkshire as well as outward bound events including: canoeing, kayaking, camping, rock-climbing, horse-riding and go-karting. Two professional photography workshops with world class snapper Neil Atkinson from Whitley Bay proved very popular. Neil has even had his own photography series on Tyne Tees TV! We have an active youth forum: The Free Voice Group, led by Joanne and Sarah They meet on a regular basis to discuss national and local issues and legislation which informs the direction of Connexions work. But it’s not all hard work, as a reward for their excellent work group members have enjoyed visits to a Japanese restaurant, gone bowling, and travelled by train to London to see the blockbuster show ‘Chicago’.

If you live in the Durham or Chester-le-Street area and would like to get involved with Free Voice, please telephone:

0800-328-1197.

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The Open University’s new Foundation Degree in Sport, Fitness and Health aims to provide students with an understanding of the theoretical and practical knowledge needed for success in professional practice in sport and fitness. It will also provide additional expertise in health, the psychology of exercise and working with groups with special exercise needs, such as those with medical conditions.

It will be delivered in collaboration with YMCA Fitness Industry Training, one of the UK’s leading providers of Exercise and Fitness instructor training.

Ben Oakley, senior lecturer in sports studies and course leader at the OU, said: “The growth and development of the sport, health and fitness industry and related courses has been phenomenal over the last 20 years. We believe there is a demand for flexible distance learning to meet the development needs of people currently working in the industry or those simply interested in the subject.

“Some may ask if sport or fitness related courses can be taught by distance learning methods. The answer is: absolutely! There is a great deal of background knowledge that underpins the subject. For example, on the scientific side there is the theory of how the body adapts to exercise, whilst on the management side there is knowledge of how the sector is organised and customer care is implemented. These subjects and many others are well suited to distance learning since ultimately people can study themselves or an organisation they are familiar with.

“For example, students learn about the role of the heart and blood supply in exercise, they use the specially commissioned films on our DVD, consult our and others’ websites and undertake activities using the heart rate monitor we supply – and that’s just one topic. The possibilities for interesting study tasks are endless.

Robin Gargrave, Executive Director of YMCAfit, said: “The development of a fitness related foundation degree which is vocational and work-based has been a long-term aim of YMCAfit. We feel there is a real need for an accessible HE qualification in this area and are delighted to be working with The Open University on this exciting project.

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For more information on this, or any other Open University qualification, please visit http://www.open.ac.uk/yass/ or call 0845 366 60 54.

The Open aths with m g in y d ional as been stu himself as a profess h , 9 1 , a b uam me for er had to Fabrice M aking a na g midfield m n li e k il c h a w -t h y id to win ug Universit am FC’s b son, the to h a g e s in t m s ir a L B h aptain footballer. ic work wit duties as c m is e h d a d c n a a is nship balance h e Champio th m o fr n o promoti 9 team. nd under-1 la g n E e th of

This summer his loan period with the Blues was made permanent in a £4million move from Arsenal, and now there is the matter of a Premiership campaign to negotiate along with even more demanding course work…

Here you are living every young man’s dream as a Premiership footballer, yet you’re being careful to continue your education…

step at a time and from there we will see. I always wanted to be an accountant, you know! I always had that in mind, and to do business studies at the same time.

Education is important, I think. You can have all the money in the world but if you can’t get the education, there is no point really. I was taught growing up that education is an important thing in life. Education is a part of me. It keeps me grounded as well. It keeps me connected to normal life.

Has the OU been supporting you in the way you expected?

What led you to choose the OU? I did my A levels and I did quite well at those. But, you know, I wanted to take it further. I started with the OU last year, because it seemed the best way to fit education around the football.

So where do you see yourself going with your studies?

I actually want to work towards a degree and eventually get a Masters. That’s what I’m really trying to do. I will do it one

They’ve been really helpful. They always point you in the right direction. The time and space that I had last year wasn’t really helpful, and that’s why I didn’t really get much work done.

But the tutors were brilliant and really helpful. I spoke to them when I needed to, and they were very helpful. Very open.

And how do you see your studies panning out this season?

I will be training hard in the morning and in the afternoon I will be trying to get as much rest as I can, though that is the time I will also be doing my studying. As long as I am playing well and getting my work in on time, everybody should be happy!

Residential school could be a bit difficult, but we will have to see about that…

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Corporal Nick Cooper

Employees in the North East are being targeted through a recruitment campaign, which highlights how joining the Territorial Army can benefit both the workplace and the individual – something Corporal Nick Cooper from Darlington has experienced first hand Nick, who is a Corporal in 124 (TEE) Recovery Company (Territorial Army), combines his civilian career as a self employed joiner with a Territorial role as a Recovery Mechanic and has travelled the world with the Territorial Army on both sporting and training exercises.

Corporal Nick Cooper believes “Being a soldier in the Territorial Army provides me with experiences and opportunities that I wouldn’t find in my normal day job. I have been able to take part in an exchange programme with American National Guard to aid preparation training for Iraq as well as going on a number of skiing trips with 124 Recovery Company, receiving tuition from some of the UK’s best skiing instructors.”

Army Recruitment Officer for Teesside, Major Mike Sherlock says: “There is a huge misconception regarding opportunities within the Army, with many people unaware of what both territorial and regular career paths entail. There are many advantages for people who want to enhance their careers through activities in their spare time.”

There are many opportunities to serve in the Territorial Army as

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a Soldier or as an Officer. The Territorial Army recruits from all walks of life, be it doctors and nurses or engineers and office workers and offers the opportunity to practice and enhance civilian skills whilst training in the Military environment.

Nick adds: “Training and serving in the Territorial Army enables people to develop skills and personal qualities that can be transferred directly to the workplace. Team working, selfconfidence, leadership, man management and experience of other nationalities and cultures are skills and qualities that many Territorial Soldiers develop.”

When joining the Territorial Army there is no formal length of service; if your circumstances change you may leave at any time. The annual training commitment ranges from 19 days for National units to 27 days in locally based Regional units. The training consists of a 15 day camp and training weekends. All TA soldiers receive Regular Army rates of pay and a tax free bonus of up to £1,500.00 when qualified.

For further information visit www.armyjobs.mod.uk, call 08457 300 111, text ARMY to 61110, call into your local Army Careers Office or TA Centre.

Maersk trainees spend three years at college gaining their HND’s or Foundation Degree. Along side the academic life they enjoy practical experience with worldwide travel.

Here we have two Deck Officers sharing their experiences of both academic and sea life; Ross McBurnie, Warsah Nautical College

First few days of college: My first few days of college at Warsash maritime academy were mainly based around trying to settle in to a new routine, meeting new people and getting acquainted with my new surroundings. The college itself used the first week to introduce us cadets to the new environment as well as completing the necessary paperwork, handing out timetables for our first phase and making the colleges expectations of us clear. The college also produced a series of daily lectures by guest speakers from the maritime industry which were designed to inform us about our future careers from a variety of perspectives. I found these lectures to be a good way of learning more about the path we had all chosen with the merchant navy. At the end of the week, as Maersk cadets we were flown up to Newcastle to participate in a two day company induction which was proved to be good fun and a good way of meeting fellow cadets from the company as well as gain more of an insight into the values of the company and what we all have to come over the coming years!

First few days at Sea: Boarding my first ship, the ‘Maersk Bentonville’ in Busan, South Korea was a very exciting time. When myself and a fellow cadet arrived at the dockside with the agent, seeing the ship for the first time was a great experience, she was massive!

It was very exciting to think that I would soon be part of her crew for four months. Once onboard I was shown to my cabin by the third officer and given a few minutes to settle in before going up and meeting the captain and completing the necessary paperwork. My next job quickly followed as I was called by the chief officer to the aft mooring station to help recover the mooring lines as we left port. This busy few hours set the trend for the next few days as we had a busy schedule which meant I was either called to a mooring station to assist the officer or called up to the bridge to assist the captain.

Although I had busy few days I really enjoyed them and it confirmed to me I had chosen the right career path.

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Kenny Magee - South Tyneside College.

Sea Phase Day One - The Airport I am surprisingly relaxed. I am relaxed about the long flight ahead, although I’ve never had a problem with flying previously; I am also relaxed about the next few months on board the Maersk Brownsville. The challenges that I’ll face, I don’t even know if I get sea sick! My mind wonders, dreaming of the possible situations I may face.

I board my flight, destination Los Angeles, for everyone on that plane except me, my destination was the future. My future!

Sea Phase Day Two - The Vessel Before I knew it, I was stood at the bottom of the gangway, completely unprepared for the butterflies in my stomach!

The 3rd Officer comes up to collect us, two new cadets, and this vessels first cadet! The 3rd Officer shows us around the accommodation block, “In here you’ll find the library” “Over here you’ll find the officers day room” “This is the laundry; the steward can show you how to use the machines!” Was it all a blur? We were walking and talking at normal pace, but it seemed so fast. My cabin! My home! It’s so spacious.

Clean and tidy, I unpack, it’s still clean and tidy and I’m informed that on a Sunday the Captain and Chief Officer do the cabin inspections, noted. I take a look at my watch, 1157hrs local time, I head down to B deck, to the officers saloon for lunch. My first meal on ship, and greeted by a smell of food that was pleasing to the nose I ate my lunch, which was just as pleasing to the stomach. The 3rd Engineer sits down and introduces himself. We talk about life at sea and before he heads back to work, he shows me around the galley a little more and gives me some tips. It was at this moment in time that I became aware of the sense of camaraderie that engulfs an environment such as this. I am still in awe.

Sea Phase Day Four - We Are Sailing I awake for my next watch. Back on the bridge; 12 noon.

More plotting points and more looking at very expensive pieces of equipment and I ask more and more questions trying to understand them. We receive a call over the radio, San Francisco Pilots. Pilot will board on arrival. We arrive into Oakland after passing the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

The sun is setting. I go with the 2nd Officer to Stations. We’re at the Forecastle. After we moor up and get on the berth we head for dinner. I then head to my cabin and get my head down. A 6 hour cargo watch entails from midnight.

Day Seven to the Third Week In. The weather is still incredible. Force 10 Winds, Sea Swell higher than I ever imagined. I made a joke in Oakland that I wanted to experience bad weather so I could find out if I get seasick.

After being at sea until the 26th December, we arrive in Dalian, China.

I reflect on the past 11 days. 11 Days crossing the pacific, where for the first 10 days we encountered next to no traffic.

Then we came close to China, fishing vessel after fishing vessel, coaster after coaster, and plenty of large container ships too. On bridge at night it is just a spectacle of lights. I grab my light rule. The light rule is a large ruler that has a sliding piece on it. It slides along and helps you identify lights. I look through the binoculars focusing on various lights and trying to identify them. Also throughout the crossing I have been into a Water Ballast Tank, Checked the Fire Extinguishers with the 3rd Officer, learnt about the different Buoys and Buoyage regions, had Christmas onboard, had Christmas dinner onboard, sent and received dozens of emails with friends and family back home. Right now the Maersk Brownsville is sat just outside of Xingang, at anchor. There is a lot of fog, the port is closed. We are informed berthing will be at 2100hrs. It’ll be a long night.

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Imagine a visit to the North East Hotel of the Year…. Do you think of class, tradition and top class service by experienced hoteliers? Well what would you think if you entered the resort only to find an adolescent concierge welcome you through the doors and a teenage boy greet you at reception? How about if you found out your meals were being prepared by a group of college students – and if the whole place was being run by a 15 year old manager!?

Well that’s exactly what happened today at De Vere Slaley Hall in Northumberland when pupils from the North East’s schools and colleges took over the rural retreat during a work experience event with a difference.

The hotel contacted TWEBLO consortium member Education Business Connections (EBC) of Sunderland to offer the opportunity to school to take part in the event. EBC contacted schools they had worked with on their award winning programme Exploring Tourism and earlier programmes designed to improve young people’s interests in, and understanding of, the opportunities open to them in the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism sector.

Exploring Tourism won the Tourism Ambassador of the Year Award in the prestigious ONE NorthEast sponsored North East Tourism Awards.

Sarah Nicklin from Education Business Connections, said: “To gain hands on experience working in one of the region’s most prestigious hotels is a fantastic opportunity for these students. Slaley Hall clearly recognises the potential of the region’s youngsters and has been very proactive in offering its support to the schools and colleges in the area.”

and helped the head chef prepare meals from the hotel’s delicious menus. They learnt about the hotel’s concierge and reception service and took over some house keeping responsibilities. They also spent part of the day with general manager, Andrew Coney and discovered what the real boss gets up to.

Emma Curran, 16 from Kenton School in Newcastle said that the event had given the students a fantastic insight into the leisure and tourism industry. She said: “It’s been brilliant to work in such a great hotel and the experience will certainly help me when I come to researching career options later in the year.”

General Manager Andrew Coney added: “Here at Slaley Hall we feel we can complement many of the great leisure and tourism courses on offer by providing invaluable work experience for some of the region’s leading students. Having won Hotel of The Year at the North East Tourism Awards, we’re keen to support local communities and we’d like nothing more than to contribute to the success of students in the region - just so long as they don’t take my job!”

For more information on Slaley Hall visit www.devere.co.uk/deluxe/slaley-hall/

Slaley Hall, the 1000 acre estate in Hexham, is eager to strengthen its ties with the local community and keen to demonstrate the many career opportunities available in the hospitality industry.

In order to illustrate these prospects, the hotel opened its doors today to some of the most promising leisure and hospitality students from around the region. Twenty one youngsters in total from Houghton Kepier Sports College, Kenton School in Newcastle, Hebburn Comprehensive and St Thomas More in Blaydon received top tips about the industry and learnt from some of the best people in the business.

During the event, students donned their kitchen whites

TWEBLO is a publicly funded education charity. We involve businesses in education to improve the work related learning skills of students joining the local workforce or going on to FE/HE. If you like to find out more get in touch with Bryan Alderson on: 0191 5166166 or bryan.alderson@tweblo.co.uk

n n n n n n n

Free interactive morning seminars for Head Teachers, Teachers and Advisory Teachers, Learning Providers, Connexions Staff, Careers Guidance Personnel, Education Business Link Staff, Training Providers and Colleges that work with students who have not yet made their career choices.

Or those who are in a position to influence career decisions made by young people - thereby challenging stereotyping and removing barriers to equality.

Contact Details.

Christine Shanks. e: Christine@equality-ne.co.uk t: 0191 495 62 68

YOUNG people took to the Tyne for the launch of a new partnership which prepares school pupils for the world of work.

The Blue Venture project, launched on the new river ferry Spirit of the Tyne, offers exciting enterprise and work-related programmes for young people, adding a work-based dimension to the curriculum, increasing motivation and improving attendance and confidence.

The new organisation, based at Simonside Primary School, Jarrow, is a partner of Newcastle EBP, which reached more than 20,000 pupils with programmes in the last academic year alone.

The 100-strong audience at the launch, who were entertained by the year six choir from Ashley Primary School and singers from St Wilfrid’s RC school, were told that Blue Venture projects give pupils a taste of the real working world, help them develop entrepreneurial skills and improve school work and attendance.

Sunderland Education Business Partnership (EBP) is part of the Connexions Service in Sunderland.

On 10th October 2007 we successfully achieved the prestigious National EBP Network Quality Award.

The award is given to EBPs that are able to demonstrate that they deliver a high quality service to young people, schools, colleges and businesses. To gain accreditation at least 80% of the 51 performance criteria must be met at levels one or two.

At the end of the day the assessors remarked that the EBP in Sunderland is a ‘highly regarded’ team that delivers a high quality service’.

The team was presented with the award at the National EBP Conference which took place in London on 4th December.

One of Blue Venture’s projects, Target 20, aims to raise confidence and self-esteem, increase motivation and give career ideas and direction.

Students work in small groups to achieve 20 target activities. Subjects covered include first aid, healthy eating, e-commerce, marketing and art workshops.

In another project, youngsters from South Tyneside Council’s Youth Choice teamed up with Blue Venture and EBP staff for a cleanup operation on the south bank of the Tyne, clearing more than 1.5 tonnes of litter, rubbish and driftwood recently.

For details of how your school can benefit from Blue Venture, contact Denis Heaney, tel 0191 489 2573 or Keith Newman, tel 07814 397 951

ct was developed The Graffiti to glass project or G2G proje Form pupils Sixth RC More as in conjunction with St Thom Citizenship ols Scho the of part as North Aid and Planning ct for proje a for ing look program where the School were in. ved invol pupils to become The project has been funded by Tyne and Wear Education Business Link Organisation through North Tyneside Education Business Partnerships ‘Future Entrepreneur” project which t new skills which abou ing learn le promotes young peop ent. loym emp e futur onto lead d coul studying A-level Once a week on a Wednesday pupils ing with work been geography at the school have ing Aid North Plann at rson Ande Chris ner plan community ning topics plan in certa at on a unique project that looks what they g essin expr of way on s hand a ls and gives pupi art. of s have learned through different form and South Tyneside The pupils visited 4 key areas in North issues, taking ning plan and looking at conservation pictures and receiving talks from council planning officers and site representatives on 4 specific locations.

school which would begin designing a huge mural for the will be displayed that be sprayed onto 5, 8 foot tall boards in the school.

8 weeks pupils Working every Wednesday for the last working with Paul and spray to how ing learn have been ing Aid North to Plann from the graffiti artist and with Chris l. mura complete the currently working A new group of sixth form students are they have been e wher ct proje the of on the next stage mation but this infor ct and visited the same sites to colle McGinley from n Gillia artist glass with time they are now d to take images erlan Sund re, Cent s Glas nal Natio the pieces of stained from the mural and transform them into glass. will be taken into It is hoped the success of this project ning issues that are plan r other schools and linked to othe nd. beyo and side Tyne important in to express “The project gives young people a way munity about themselves to other members of the com are important feel they s issue or ed things they have learn of community out d misse are le peop ger Youn . to them and creating fun, involvement techniques a lot of the time le in planning peop g youn ding inclu of ways e interactiv city to capa more them and the environment gives grow up” they as ent onm envir their in ved become invol (Chris Anderson Planning Aid North)

Pupils visited: - The Tyne Pedestrian Tunnel; Souter Lighthouse; North Shields Fishquay; St Pauls Church and Bedes’ World Pupils then met with Paul Richardson from Iron Elephant Graffiti works in Sunderland to begin to look at the collected images and

TWEBLO is a publicly funded education charity. We involve businesses in education to improve the work related learning skills of students joining the local workforce or going on to FE/HE. If you like to find out more get in touch with Bryan Alderson on: 0191 5166166 or bryan.alderson@tweblo.co.uk

We’re the one firm for all talented people. People who shine in one way or another. And if we could bottle the qualities that make them special we would. The problem is, aside from the obvious technical difficulties, there isn’t a PricewaterhouseCoopers type. Everyone here is different, with different subject disciplines, backgrounds and aspirations. Which is just the way we like it. It’s our combined strengths as individuals that make us succeed as a firm: a firm that, for the last four years, students have voted number one in The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers survey.

We’ve become one of the world’s largest professional services firms, employing 140,000 people across 149 countries, because we are good at what we do. But what is that? We help organisations measure their financial performance and improve the way they work. Our client list includes everything from small/medium sized enterprises to giant multinationals, high-net-worth individuals to governments, financial services to the media. And we can help with just about anything our clients need. As well as being the undisputed UK market leader in audit and operating the UK’s joint leading tax planning practice, we offer many other services including risk management, strategy development and generating high-level economic reviews for companies and even governments.

For more information on each of the different business areas of PwC you should visit our website which has further information www.pwc.com/uk/careers/

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PwC recognise that as individuals we have different career aspirations and that’s why we have work experience and job opportunities for people at all stages of their careers.

Each gives you the chance to learn more about the world of business and accountancy and develop strong technical and personal skills. Complete one of them successfully and you’ll be well-placed to build a long-term career with PwC.

The CHO1CE Get a HEADstart

These programmes are practical alternatives to a traditional degree and perfect for those who’ve already decided a career in accountancy or finance is for them but have decided that university is not part of the path they want to follow. HEADstart students work and study simultaneously, giving the opportunity to put the theory they learn at college into practice when working as part of our client teams. Our students work hard to achieve their professional qualifications; HEADstart Assurance students study towards the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification which takes 4 years to complete and HEADstart Tax students will train

for the Association of Tax Technicians (ATT) and may then aim to work towards further tax qualifications after that. Either way, students embark on an accelerated route to gaining their professional qualifications – and earn a competitive salary at the same time.

Gap years taken care of at PwC

Our Gap Year programme runs from September through to March. That means you not only gain a unique insight into PwC and some great experience before you start your degree; but, because the programme only lasts seven months, you also have time to see a good deal of the world if you want to.

Spending part of your gap year with PwC is a great way to gain some real work experience, earn a decent salary and determine whether a career in professional services is right for you. And, if you use your year wisely, we believe it’s an experience that will enhance your appeal to employers like us after university.

Launch your career with a Flying Start at Newcastle University

Established in 2002, the BA (Honours) Business Accounting & Finance degree programme (UCAS NN14) is a collaboration between Newcastle University, PwC and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). The first of its kind and exclusive to Newcastle University, the four year degree programme combines academic study with professional exams and practical paid work experience at PwC. This integrated approach is a truly innovative way for students to secure an accelerated route to qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. For more information visit www.ncl.ac.uk/flyingstart/

Want to find out more? The PwC Open Day sounds perfect for you

Too much choice? Need more information? Log onto our website and sign up for an Open Day in an office near you.

You’ll spend a day discovering what we do, how, why and where we do it, and who we do it for. We’ll explain the various directions a career with PwC can take you – and how far you could go – and you’ll have every opportunity to ask our people questions face to face and get a better grasp of our business.

Visit our website to hear from our existing students or to find out more about any of the opportunities above www.pwc.com/uk/careers/ We’re the one firm for all talented individuals.

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th Councillor d High School wi

Winning team Po

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Doreen Huddart

of Newcastle.

Young people from the region took part in an annual international debating competition on 17 December.

Five schools from across the region played the role of parliamentary committees in the North East heat of the European Youth Parliament (EYP) event. Held in South Tyneside council chamber, the event saw Year 12 pupils debating a range of issues, from terrorism to maritime policy. The regional session was organised by EYP-UK and the North East Assembly.

The event was hosted by South Tyneside Council, whose deputy leader, Councillor Iain Malcolm, is a member of the North East Assembly and the European Committee of the Regions (CoR). One of the region’s other CoR members, Councillor Doreen Huddart of Newcastle, opened the session.

by getting as many young people involved in discussion of the most pertinent issues.”

Aidan Stradling, manager for Europe and government liaison at the North East Assembly, added: “We have been working with EYP for six years, and it is great to see young people involved in those early days back running the sessions for a new generation of participants today. This event has highlighted how debate and discussion of the big issues can really make a difference at regional level.”

The winning team from Ponteland High School will now go on to the national stage of the competition to be held in Durham in September 2008. Winners from there represent the UK at international sessions across Europe.

Councillor Huddart said: “I am delighted that the Youth Parliament is undertaking this initiative, as it is exactly the kind of outreach that schools need. Citizenship education is about acquiring social skills like empathy, responsibility and the ability to cooperate and solve conflicts through dialogue.

“It is also about encouraging young people to think about politics as a vocation - there is every reason to hope that taking part in this event there are future politicians whether at a local, national or international level.”

Corrine Noble, from the UK team behind the European Youth Parliament said: “I’d like to thank the North East Assembly for their help in organising the regional session. We at EYP-UK believe that the best way to de-mystify politics and Europe is

I am delighted that the Youth Parliament is undertaking this initiative...

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Check out www.eypuk.org for more information.

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By Zélie Guérin, Regional Language Network North East Manager

Eddie Izzard, Charlize Theron, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, and Ricky Martin are all doing it.

Speaking several languages that is, and so could you!

This is a message that the Regional Language Network North East (RLN NE) fully supports and through its Business Language Champions Programme can help make a reality for you!

There’s no doubt that speaking and understanding more than just the English language has many advantages. In addition to developing a lifelong ability to communicate with more people, you will certainly improve your overall performance at school or college and develop superior problem-solving skills into the bargain – research has shown that a multilingual person’s brain is more flexible and better at important tasks than that of someone who only speaks one language.

And when talking prospects, knowing a second language will also give you the edge when it comes to getting a job – employers always look for people with language skills. So say hello to a bright and prosperous future!

One really exciting way to embrace languages is filmmaking.

Think acting as the latest Ang Lee or Scorsese while getting to understanding a new language sounds too good to be true?

Well it’s certainly a reality for pupils at Llanishen High School in Wales who have been writing and producing films in foreign languages, including French, German, Welsh, Italian, Russian, and Korean, to promote enthusiasm for language learning; they have even set up their own TV station!

And it doesn’t stop there. Young filmmakers even have their own version of the Oscars – The Languages and Film Talent Awards.

The UK-wide competition aims to encourage young people between the ages of 13 and 21 to develop original two-minute film clips showing the benefits of learning another language.

Entries will be judged by a panel including Eddie Izzard, Sir Trevor McDonald and Sky Sports’ Guillem Balagué. Prizes include trips to Spain and Germany, and a £1,500 video camera and the closing date for entries is 31 March 2008.

Eddie, who also performs in French, said: ‘More young people should get into languages; they’re fun, creative, and you can use them to say whatever you want be it going for a job interview or swearing like a true national!’

Interested? The Business Language Champions Programme can help you make it happen. Run by Regional Language Network North East (RLN NE), the programme supports language-related projects and can help you and your school set up a project like that at Llanishen High School.

Language skills are incredibly important and filmmaking is an inspiring and fun way to encourage young people like you to learn new languages. If you would like to work with businesses or schools in the North East and create similar projects to that at Llanishen High School you should get in touch with The Business Language Champions project manager Pascal Fintoni on 0191 487 2002 or pascal.fintoni@n-e-life.co.uk.”

For practical advice on how to use digital video technology, a new publication, Lights, camera, action! is a great starting point. It offers advice on planning, filming and editing digital video, supported by examples from projects which have been effective in a range of schools.

Get involved and success, fame and fortune could be yours!

Useful links n Regional Language Network North East –

n The Languages and Film Talent Awards

www.languageswork.org.uk

n Celebrity linguists

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www.rln-northeast.com

www.cilt.org.uk/promoting/celeblinguists/celeblinguists.htm

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iety, as we If you live in a modern day soc industry – the do in the UK, then the process technology chemical, pharmaceutical, bio nies are part pa and speciality chemical com g every day, of everybody’s life, contributin vital industry every hour, every second. This rything we do eve sector is essential to almost ognise this. and yet most people do not rec Without these industries and the products they develop we would quite literally starve; freeze or bore ourselves to death.

Whether at work, college, home or play, products created by the chemical industry are there to help make your life more enjoyable, easier and safer. Whatever you buy DVDs, deodorant or a mobile phone it has been made by using chemicals. Look around you. Without chemicals and the chemical industry, virtually every man-made object could not have been made.

At home we relax in our living rooms decorated in acrylic paints and vinyl wallpaper, lit by long life light bulbs and watching our televisions, which along with our DVD and CD players, are housed in a strong and durable plastic frame.

The process industry protects us when we eat by providing safe food and water through antioxidants, biocides and flavourings, while fertilizers and crop protection chemicals help us to make sure that we produce enough for our needs.

Our food and drinks stay fresher longer thanks to special packaging and containers.

We keep ourselves and our clothes clean with shampoos, soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, washing powders, detergents and disinfectants, which are all produced using chemicals.

Our bodies are kept well and protected thanks to the chemicals used in many antibiotics and other drugs. Disease can be prevented or treated easily and painlessly thanks to these drugs, which in turn have expanded the human lifespan – perhaps our most significant contribution to society.

In terms products the list is quite literally endless – cars, bikes, phones, mp3 players, game consoles, plasma televisions,

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laptops, inks and dyes, clothes, new medicines, makes-ups and creams …..

So by now I assume you’re beginning to understand just how important this industry is and you’ll probably be even more astounded to know that all of these products and technologies are produced in North East England. We have over 500 companies based in our region, employing an astonishing 40,000 people and selling £70 billion worth of products each year. And because of how quickly these companies are growing we need 16,000 new employees over the next ten years – that’s 8,000 vocational and 8,000 graduates. Fancy it? The average salary for a graduate is £25,000 growing to more than £80,000 over the length of your career. Fancy it now?

The routes to join this industry are varied and there is a study path that will suit all types of young people. From apprenticeships, A-levels and company sponsored Foundation degrees, to acquiring a university degree and entering at graduate level, your options are endless and as for the jobs and careers, they are endless too (see list opposite).

The process industry in the Northeast England is supported by NEPIC, the North East Process Industry Cluster. We are here to help the industry grow and sustain its future. We have lots of interesting information on our website about careers and training routes, which includes media-videos created by young adults. Why not take a look at our website or if you prefer, we can pop a copy in the post – just give us a call.

We have all seen how quickly the products and gadgets around are changing and the amazing new things that are on offer to us that make our lives easier, more enjoyable and most importantly longer. Why not be part of these changes and technologies of the future? Why not join us and start a career in the process industries?

NEPIC (North East Process Industry Cluster) Limited Tel: +44(0)1642 442560 E-mail: enquiries@nepic.co.uk Website: www.nepic.co.uk

n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Analytical chemist Analyst Biochemist Chemist Chemical engineer Clinical research scientist Data manager Development technologist Drug safety associate Ecologist Environmental scientist Environmental engineer Epidemiologist Fermentation scientist Formulation technologist Geologist Instrument engineer Information technologist Inorganic chemist Life scientist Laboratory manager Materials scientist Mechanical engineer Metallurgist Microbiologist Molecular biologist Organic chemist Patent specialist Pharmacologist Planning engineer Polymer scientist Process engineer Process development chemist Production engineer Project manager Quality assurance officer Quantity surveyor Regulatory affairs specialist Research scientist Safety engineer Scale up chemist Scientific writer Software engineer Statistician Statistical programmer Systems engineer Technical engineer Training engineer Toxicologist Virologist Web designer

‌‌and many others.

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There are many universities and colleges that can train you for a career in the hospitality industry. But if you are looking to work in five star hotels around the world, then you might want to consider a five star school of hospitality. Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les Roches School of Hospitality Management are two such institutions and their students are in such high demand that upon graduation they are offered, on average, 3 jobs and are expected to be in the top 20% of industry positions in 5 to 10 years. So, if you have the ambition and determination to make it to the very top in hospitality, Glion and Les Roches could be the ideal starting place for you.

The hospitality industry is one of the most international on the planet so the benefit of spending time abroad is very clear.

Studying at Glion and Les Roches gives you the opportunity to learn languages as you study (all your lessons are in English though).

Studying at Glion and Les Roches is not just about what you learn in the classroom. In the hospitality industry it is also vitally important to gain work experience. For this reason, during the four years of an undergraduate degree, every student is given three work placements which last for 6 months each. These are paid, work experience opportunities which mean that by the time you graduate, not only will you have the theoretical knowledge, you will also have the benefit of having worked in three different hotels in three countries.

The hospitality industry has many different career paths to offer and it is not necessary to know exactly where you are going to end up in the future at this stage. By studying at Glion and Les Roches, you will learn about all sides of the business, giving you the chance to work out where you want to be in the future.

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Jaume Tapiès (1989) President Relais & Châteaux ‘Glion offers the perfect combination of theory and hands on learning which takes place in an exciting multicultural environment. In today’s world strong managerial skills and a clear understanding of customer needs are key to succeed in the world of hospitality.’

www.bbc.co.uk/schoolreport

BBC News School Report is a web based project which provides resources to help Year 7, 8 and 9 students to become reporters and make there own news reports at school.

The aim is to interest 11 – 14 year olds in news by helping them to set their own editorial agenda for a real audience.

During an annual, UK-wide News Day, secondary schools become broadcasters, with schools simultaneously publishing video, audio or text-based news on their school websites.

Supported by BBC staff, teachers help students prepare for the day using free resources which are available to teachers on the School Report site. The basics are in 6 lesson plans with professional hints and tips from BBC news reader Huw Edwards.

These lessons cover the basics of journalism including where stories come from, how to gather the news and how to check the facts and make sure news reports are accurate, balanced and fair. There are also tips and exercises to help write, assemble and broadcast the news.

For schools who want to do more, there are more resources

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which can help students with podcasting, how to make simple audio and video reports, and there’s even a section on how to make news on your mobile phone.

During the pilot year (2006/7), 120 schools and more than 3,000 students took part in the project, which culminated in School Report News Day on 22 March.

Students were given a voice and a real audience, as the BBC linked to school websites and featured their work on BBC programmes, including News 24, Breakfast News, the One O’clock and Six O’clock News, Newsround, Radio Five Live, Radio 4, 40 local radio stations, 12 regional TV stations and BBC Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The School Report website also became a dedicated schools’ news channel for the day as School Report LIVE streamed nine hours of continuous news featuring reports from students across the UK. It was also available on the BBC’s red button service.

In October 2007, after only one year, School Report was nominated for a Children’s Bafta in the Secondary Learning category.

In its second year, (2007/8), the number of students and schools taking part in the project will double and 250 schools are working hard towards the School Report News Day for 2008 on March 13th. Once again, School Report LIVE will broadcast 9 hours of news from around the country on the day via the website and the BBC red button. However, this year, there will also be a School Report internet radio channel to feature audio reports and news from schools around the UK. Although the aim of the project is to help young people to understand the news and how it is made, and to encourage them to watch news and current affairs programmes, it is also a good insight into the world of journalism. Because the students work to deadlines and broadcast to a real audience, they develop an awareness of the way a real journalist works.

Where possible, schools taking part in the project also receive a visit from a BBC journalist who can explain what their job involves. All of this experience is useful for students who have aspirations to apply for one of the BBC jobs which will be available when key BBC departments move to the North West in 2011 as part of the Media City development in Salford.

Huw Edwards

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