Way2Go - North West 1

issue 01 | sept 2007

Aimhigher is a national programme which aims to widen participation in higher education (HE) by raising the aspirations and developing the abilities of young people from groups that are under-represented in HE. Our national webs site www. aimhigher.ac.uk provides all the information you need to get started on the road to higher education and a rewarding career.

In the North West, our work with young people is planned and delivered through five Area partnerships, which bring together schools, colleges, universities, the Connexions service, and other training providers: Cheshire and Warrington www.aimhighercw.co.uk Cumbria www.ifonlyi.cumbria.ac.uk Greater Manchester www. aimhighergreatermanchester. co.uk Greater Merseyside www. aimhighergreatermerseyside. ac.uk Lancashire www.uclan.ac.uk/ advancement/ahl/ aimhighergreatermanchester. co.uk

A* Future raises awareness of the international education and work opportunities available to young people. Our mission is to ensure that information about global opportunities is available to students so they can shape their own futures.

From learning languages where they are spoken to full degrees in Australia or work experience in Brazil, there are many ways that young people can enhance their career prospects while experiencing other cultures.

A* Future believes that international education is an excellent means of building relationships between countries that enriches the regional economy as well as the individual student. For further information please visit: www.astarfuture.co.uk.

The purpose of the BBC is to enrich people’s lives with great programmes and services that inform, educate and entertain.

Our vision is to be the most creative, trusted organisation in the world.

You might already know about the BBC’s online services, ranging from innovative and distinctive content such as GCSE Bitesize, to services like interactive live sports streams that reflect and extend the range of the BBC’s programmes.

Our audience are now both active generators as well as consumers of programmes so we have a whole host of opportunities to create and contribute content to us. If you’re 13-19 years old have you seen BBC Blast (bbc.co.uk/blast) or school report (bbc. co.uk/schoolreport)? The BBC believes in developing young people to become the next generation of talent - whatever you wish to do. Now with the BBC’s plan to move five London departments to Salford’s new mediacity:uk, there’s never been a more exciting time to think about working in the media industry in the North of England .

We believe that talent isn’t about where you live or skin colour, educational achievements, gender or any number of other irrelevant factors. It’s only by having a wide range of people, from different backgrounds and experiences to work in the media industry that we’ll be able to make sure there’s enough exciting, entertaining, engaging output for everyone. To find out more about a career with the BBC, log on to: bbc.co.uk/jobs

Chemicals Northwest, based in Runcorn, Cheshire, is the industry-led support organisation for chemistry-using industries in the region. Funded by the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA), Chemicals Northwest (CNW) works in partnership with manufacturers making and using chemicals; specialist service suppliers; universities, higher and further education institutes and training providers that are vital for the industry to operate.

Chemicals Northwest is particularly focused on improving the image and therefore the uptake of the chemical sciences within schools and colleges.

We are committed to supporting the teaching of chemistry with a workrelated focus so that students can see what really goes on in factories, on chemical plants and in laboratories. In this way we hope to help students make an informed choice about their careers, and raise their aspirations to excel in this subject area, which is vital not only to our daily lives but also to the future of our planet.

The LSC exists to make England better skilled and more competitive. We are responsible for ensuring the availability of high-quality education and training for everyone. We have a single goal: to improve the skills of England’s young people and adults to world class standards. Our vision is that young people and adults in England have knowledge and skills matching the best in the world and are part of a truly competitive workforce.

The A.P. Moller - Maersk Group is a worldwide organisation with about 110,000 employees and offices in around 130 countries – with global headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark. In addition to owning one of the world’s largest shipping companies, we are also involved in a wide range of activities within the energy, shipbuilding, retail and manufacturing industries.

Maersk is a great example of a dynamic employer that recognises the many valuable skills that students can bring to the company.

Part of the global A.P.Moller – Maersk Group, The Maersk Company was set up in the UK over 50 years ago, and has a strong history of investment in - and development of – people.

The Maersk Company established its Officer Training Scheme for people who are interested in developing a career at sea. The scheme offers many opportunities for development, whether a person wants to become a Marine Engineer Officer or a Deck Officer. In addition, later on in their career, qualified seafarers often move into careers ashore within The Maersk Company and the A.P.Moller – Maersk Group.

Officer Trainees will spend part of their training studying at nautical college, where they will combine academic work with basic practical training. Sea phases then give trainees the opportunity to gain invaluable practical skills onboard state of the art vessels.

All of our trainees are guaranteed a position within the fleet on completion of the course.

The Army offers fantastic career opportunities with jobs in anything from healthcare to engineering.

Plus, if you’re not ready for a full-time commitment, the Territorial Army is a great way to meet new mates, learn different skills and earn extra cash in your spare time.

The skills base of the Northwest workforce is critical to the economic development of the region.

The NWDA has a key role in ensuring that training, education and skills development is meeting the needs of employers and individuals. This will ensure that the Northwest remains competitive and that businesses have the skilled and motivated workforce they need to be productive.

To achieve success in this area it is essential to work with other key partners in the region. This is achieved through the Regional Skills Partnership (RSP). Each of the partners in the RSP has a key area of focus. The NWDA’s focus is on: n Influencing the development of national skills policy and implementing effective solutions in the region n Addressing sector skills challenges and priorities n Developing leadership and management skills and capacity n Supporting the role of further and higher education in transforming the regional economy n Linking workless people to employment n Integrating regional skills

activity into Sub-Regional Partnerships and key strategic sites

The JIVE NorthWest Hub is a collaborative partnership between Blackburne House, Positive Steps Oldham and Salford University, and a regional partner of the ‘JIVE: Joining Policy - Joining Practice’ national initiative.

Aims:

n To improve the

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participation and position of all women in the Science, Engineering, Construction and Technology (SECT) To enhance gender equality To contribute to closing the skills gap and to economic growth

What we do: n Work with the UK Resource Centre for Women in SET to engage with national and regional government to influence policy and strategy n Activities that seek to inspire and support women and girls to pursue careers in SECT n Work with educators, agencies and employers to address the barriers which prevent women and girls from pursuing and re-entering careers in these sectors. n Raising the profile of women in SECT n Using models of good practice to inspire, engage, support and empower women in SECT. www.jivenorthwest.org.uk

Leadership for schools Challenging secondary schools often face a number of significant obstacles such as high pupil mobility, multiple spoken languages and families suffering the effects of deprivation. By introducing additional excellent teachers into these schools, Teach First hopes to help overcome these obstacles, and provide a better education for thousands of pupils who lack the opportunities that many others take for granted.

Teach First participants are expected to not only make a difference in the classroom, but also to their school community.

Through the leadership developement component of programme and by using their own initiative, participants are encouraged to channel resources to where they are most needed. Using creativity and drive, participants are expected to raise the aspirations to the highest levels and unleash new opportunities that will measureably benefit individual pupil performance, while enhancing the quality of life experienced by all in their school communities.

INTRODUCTION

WELCOME to the first issue of W2G North West, a new inspirational magazine aimed at giving teenagers help and advice when it comes to careers and education.

Well it’s the start of the new academic year, those summer holidays are now a distant memory and its time to roll up the sleeves, nose to the grind stone and take your brain out of neutral and put it into gear. So it will be more revision, more exams and more homework, but trust us, it will be worth it in the end when you open those exams results next year.

In issue 1 we look at going back to school, the day in the life of a student at Manchester University, the dangers of the internet, and to help you chill out a bit, we have playtime in which we cast our eye over some of the latest games, DVD’S, music and film reviews to hit the streets this month.

We have interviews and career profiles from around the region, and in this issue, our careers platform takes a look at careers in law.

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 The Simpsons Movie After eighteen seasons, four hundred episodes, and innumerable awards and honors (including a Peabody, 23 Emmys(R) and a designation from Time magazine as the “best television show of the twentieth century”), The Simpsons has become a feature-length motion picture. And it’s a good thing, too, because it takes a wide screen to fully capture Homer Simpson’s epic stupidity. In the eagerly-awaited film based on the hit television series, Homer must save the world from a catastrophe he himself created. It all begins with Homer, his new pet pig, and a leaky silo full of droppings - a combination that triggers a disaster the likes of which Springfield has never experienced. As Marge is outraged

by Homer’s monumental blunder, a vengeful mob descends on the Simpson household. The family makes a narrow escape, but is soon divided by both location and conflict. The Springfield citizenry has every reason to be out for Simpson blood. The calamity triggered

by Homer has drawn the attention of U.S. President Arnold Schwarzenegger (voiced by Harry Shearer) and Environmental Protection Agency head Russ Cargill (voiced by Albert Brooks). “You know sir,” Cargill tells the president, “when you made me head of the EPA, you were applauded for appointing one of the most successful men in America to the least successful agency in government. And why did I take the job?

Because I’m a rich man who wanted to give something back. Not the money, but something.” That “something” is a devil’s plan to contain the disaster. As the fates of Springfield and the world hang in the balance, Homer embarks on a personal odyssey of redemption - seeking forgiveness from Marge, the reunion of his splintered family, and the salvation of his hometown.

Still you can’t help chuckle at a guy whose perpetually stuck in jam - mmm... donuts.

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DVD REVIEW Mr. Beans Holiday It’s a safe bet that kids will eat up this latest slice of slapstick, in which Mr Bean’s struggle to take a relaxing French holiday is thwarted by a lost child, a hungry vending machine, an egomaniac film director (a campy Willem Dafoe) and the intricacies of Gallic public transport. However, parents who sat stony-faced through the original Bean are in for a surprise: from an adult perspective, Mr Bean’s Holiday is not all that bad.

It’s hard to explain the appeal of Mr Bean. At first glance, he seems to be moulded from the primordial clay of nightmares: a leering man-child with a body like a tangle of tweed-coated pipe cleaners and the gurning, window-licking countenance of a suburban sex offender.

It’s a testament to Rowan Atkinson’s skill that, by the end of the film he seems almost cuddly.

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MUSIC REVIEW High School Musical 2: Original Soundtrack High School Musical is back with more catchy songs!

This follow up to the massive High School Musical is not as good as the first, there are about 8 really good songs on this album, mainly the Troy and Gabriella tracks and the songs in which the whole cast sings! The others are growers though!

As a High School Musical fan i didnt think I would be skipping any of the tracks on the album but the tracks in which Sharpay sings i just shouldn’t listen to cos they’re just not as good compared to the others! They may grow on me yet though!

The album has some very good songs, especially the Troy and Gabriella solos and their duets, they’re really good and are gonna be really popular songs!

Stand out tracks are, What Time Is It, You Are The Music In Me, Gotta Go My Own Way, All For One and Everyday!

Fabulous, and Humuhumunukunukuapua’a are rather annoying and bring the quality of the album down!!

Overall this album is great and full of fun catchy songs, buy this album and you’ll be singing the songs for days!!

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GAME REVIEW Trauma Center: Second Opinion Turn your living room into an operating room. The critically acclaimed medical drama turns the Wii Remote into doctor’s tools for laser surgery, defibrillation, forceps and more.

You play surgeon in this exciting medical drama simulation. You’ll need to cure patients of everything from routine medical maladies to life-threatening designer viruses. And, of course, there’s just as much drama outside of the operating room as in it.

In Trauma Center: Second Opinion, every second counts.

Between a countdown timer and a patient’s vitals, the pressure is on to perform a pinpoint accurate operation.

The Wii Remote controller serves as all the surgical tools you need to save lives. It’s a scalpel, a surgical laser, forceps and more.

The game calls on you to perform a wide variety of operations from resetting pieces of a shattered bone to extracting glass to removing tumors. Although you’ll use some surgical techniques several times, each operation presents a unique challenge - one in which you’ll be graded from A to C.

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Traditional 9-5 not for you? Then the creative industries offer an unrivalled range of jobs and opportunities that could suit anyone looking for an informal and flexible career. If you want to make the most of your imagination, skill and flair, then the creative industries will offer you a lifetime of variety, new challenges and opportunities to meet great people.

And it’s certainly not just about the people you see on stage or screen. Behind every great band, for instance, there’s a sound engineer, solicitor, press agent, manager, accountant, distributor, marketing manager, promotions manager, graphic designer and many more…..

You don’t have to be creative to work in the creative industries but you do have to be able to solve problems, work on your own and as part of a team, learn quickly and have good communication skills. In fact the creative industries are dominated by young people who have higher education qualifications.

The creative industries are one of the fasted growing sectors of the UK economy, with 149,000 jobs in the NW alone, and this is expected to grow by a further 29,000 over the next 10 years.

To find out more, take a look at www.aimhighernw.ac.uk/sowhat/

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Around 20,000 young people from across the North West are set to descend on Manchester Central later this year to attend Skills NorthWest, the region’s biggest skills event. From 13 to 15 November the venue (formerly known as the GMEX) will see thousands of young people gather under one roof to gain a taste of real careers and the skills needed in the world of work.

Skills NorthWest is an annual event, open to all young people in years 10, 11, 12 and 13, as well as college and university students, and is a must for any young person looking to discover more about the career options available to them. Parents and carers are also encouraged to drop in at any time during the three days, and admission is free.

This year there will be special opportunity for young people to discover more about high-skill jobs, offering excellent rewards, to which they can realistically aspire. Some of the sector skills agencies will be offering a programme of interesting interactive activities which will show you these jobs and the pathways that can be followed to get into these professions.

These activities will be supported by Aimhigher, in partnership with Careers Northwest, who together will be providing information about high-level employment opportunities and the many different ways to achieving the qualifications you will need. www.aimhigher.ac.uk www.careersnorthwest.com These days higher education does not have to mean ‘A’ levels, followed by a three year full-time degree course, away from home, at university.

It may be the best known way of getting into a professional job but it’s certainly not the only way, and it may not be the best way for you.

One option is to work and study at the same time. And one way of doing that is to study for a foundation degree.

What is a foundation degree?

Foundation degrees are designed in partnership with employers, and integrate academic and work-based learning They equip individuals with knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to their work They are usually delivered by colleges and universities (and sometimes by other training providers) A full-time course will usually take two years to complete, a part-time course may take longer Many students study whilst they are employed in order to improve their skills and job prospects You don’t necessarily need traditional academic qualifications to gain entry to a course Many courses have flexible teaching arrangements involving part-time or evening attendance at college, distance learning or learning via the internet Aimhigher North West has produced a guide to foundation degree courses in the region, in partnership with Foundation Degree Forward.

An updated list of these courses can be found on our web site. www.aimhighernw.ac.uk 09

www.fdf.ac.uk

Teachers portal: TIGeR www.tiger-nw.org.uk We know that many teachers may, at some time, influence the decisions that young people make by providing them with information, advice and guidance (IAG), even if this is not their formal role. Indeed, it may well be that informal IAG, provided by a teacher who is known and trusted, is more powerful than more formal IAG. We also know that many teachers recognise that their own knowledge of higher education (HE), and progression routes beyond school, is limited and not up-to-date.

TIGeR - Teachers’ Information & Guidance e Resource aims to provide a reliable, regularly updated and accessible source of information around progression to HE. In particular, it targets those who have frequent contact with young people but do not have a formal IAG role.

TIGeR has been developed by professional IAG practitioners in consultation with teachers and has been informed by research undertaken by Edge Hill University which investigated how teachers acquired information about opportunities in HE. Earlier research by Manchester Metropolitan University looked at key issues affecting progression from schools and colleges to HE and considered the implications for practice.

Careers Northwest www.careersnorthwest.com Choosing a career can be a difficult process, complicated by information that is out-of-date, difficult to understand and bears no relation to what is happening in the everchanging workplace.

Careers Northwest focuses on real, tangible jobs and career opportunities. The cornerstone of Careers Northwest is a series of 25 sector-based fact sheets. They deliver wellresearched sector-based information about the major areas of employment opportunities and the types and levels of skills required. The fact sheets highlight the types of jobs available in each sector and the qualifications people need. Supported by the latest employment trends and labour market intelligence, the sheets give an honest and realistic picture of each sector.

In addition, the site contains other resources, such as information about major development projects across the region that will offer substantial careers opportunities in the near future and information for adults and advisers, as well as young people.

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Name: Joanne Gee Age: 20 Studying: BSc (Hons) Psychology

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Within no time most people are settled in and have made lots of new friends, and then it’s time to get down to the serious business of studying. In the following pages, student Joanne Gee give you an insight into daily life at Manchester University.

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A new school year is exciting. There’s that wonderful feeling of having a fresh start, catching up with old friends, and making progress by moving up a grade. But there’s no denying that it can be stressful too. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions - such as excitement and ner vousness - about what’s ahead what’s ahead.

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What’s Worrying You In a recent study of 600 14-17 year olds, pupils were asked what most worried them about returning to school after the school holidays. A third of all those who took the survey said they worry most about schoolwork. No surprise there.

Getting ready for a new year of schoolwork can definitely be challenging because you’ll be learning more advanced things. So worrying about whether you’ll do well enough in school is pretty common. If this is your biggest worry, at least it’s nice to know you’re not alone.

But not everyone said schoolwork was the thing that worried them most. Just as many said they worry most about social issues like fitting in, having friends, being judged, or being teased. And since social life is such a big part of school, it’s not a shock that so many students say social issues are their biggest worry.

Ashlee, 14, Blackpool, “ Try to find your ultimate soother. I found mine: music! Whenever things worry me, I put my headphones on and forget about my problems for a while.”

Social Pressures and Problems Jessie, 15, Bootle says, “I’m going to try to make new friends and talk more. Don’t worry about being awkward because others are too. Lots of people are good at being cool, but they are insecure too. Finding a safe, welcoming group is a great foundation for dealing with the ups and downs of school. It’s important to have your own little or big group that you can hang out with.”

Megan, 14, Warrington, “My best friend left last year, and I’m worried about who I’ll hang out with.” So I’ve decided to not hang out with anyone who has a good social image but who is mean. I intend to find someone who will really be my friend.”

Besides schoolwork and social stuff, another category ranked high on the worry list: appearance. One-fourth of the people who responded to the survey said appearance issues worried them most of all. If this is you, you’ve got plenty of company, too.

Amina, 14, Chester says, “There are these really jealous girls and they are always stressing me out, but I found that just being nice to them can make a lot of difference: They will be amazed at how you treat them and maybe loosen up some.”

Top Tips from North West Students

Jessica, 16, Preston, has another strategy for coping with rude people: “If someone is rude to me I just ignore them. It drives them crazy when you don’t act or seem like you care about anything they have to say.

Schoolwork worries David, 16, Liverpool “go home, take a quick break, and then get started on your work straight away. Procrastination only brings frustration!”

Jennie, 17, Ormskirk, offers this advice: “To avoid trouble, do homework as soon as possible and at least start projects the day you get them.”

Looking Good How we feel about the way we look is closely tied to social issues, feeling comfortable, and being accepted.

Debbie, 14, Blackburn, “A year from now, will what you worried about really be a big deal? Other stuff is going to happen.”

Danny, 14, Manchester, “If you play lots of sport like me you still have to keep your grades up to scratch. Keep the balance by working really hard and lean on your parents for lots of support. If you have parents around that actually take an interest in you, take advantage of that and let them be there for you.”

Keisha, 15, Southport advises: “Don’t worry about it so much.

And when your family and friends say you look great, accept the compliment, because it’s true!”

Claire, 17, Preston, “Relying on other people for support and advice is essential when it comes to schoolwork and balancing all the pressures school can bring. Older siblings are great for advice because they have been through it before, also keep your parents aware of the situation, they are there to help make life easier.”

And Leah, 14, Bury, “If you’re worried about your clothes and how you look, just remember that it’s what’s on the inside that matters.”

Jordon, 14, Wigan, “Wear clothes that fit your style. Don’t wear something that makes you look like a poser.”

We couldn’t agree more.

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The Make Your Mark Campaign, run by Enterprise insight, aims to inspire young people to realise their dreams. It is a national campaign and is funded by Department of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform.

The Make Your Mark Campaign is supported by the CBI, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors and British Chambers working together for the first time, in coalition with an unprecedented number of partners including the Regional Development Agencies, with the goal of creating a more enterprising culture.

There are currently five regional enterprise hubs in Coventry, Liverpool, Lowestoft, Tees Valley and Wakefield. The hubs aim to continue the great work done nationally but with a more focussed hands on approach.

Make Your Mark’s flagship activity is Enterprise Week which takes place every November. The Northwest Development Agency (NWDA) is a keen supporter of the week and helps to inspire and stimulate young people to be creative and think about entrepreneurship.

“These young people may be the next Richard Branson or Anita Roddick, generating money and jobs for the people of the region” said Colin Bell, NWDA’s Strategy Manager for Enterprise Development.

Each day of Enterprise Week has a different theme focusing on key elements of enterprise.

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Make Your Mark Challenge – Monday 12th November 2007

Case Study 1 – Jane Hampson, Little Satsuma and Scouse Soap Company

The Make Your Mark Challenge is an annual inter school, college and university challenge – in fact it is the biggest challenge in Europe! Last year, over 100,000 young people were part of it.

“I wanted soap that was palm oil free and couldn’t find any so I made some!”

In 2006 the Make Your Mark in Liverpool team set a separate challenge to the schools who involved the most young people in the challenge. This was won by New Heys Community Comprehensive who entered an impressive 36 teams.

Ideas from the North West last year included a pillow containing speakers so you can listen to music as you sleep and a sponsored a brick scheme were people donate money to send bricks to impoverished areas of the world. Archbishop Blanch High School represented the Northwest region in the Grand Final.

Sarah Bevan Fischer, Head of the Make Your Mark in Liverpool said “Giving young people this opportunity inspires them to come up with the most impressive and innovative ideas that never cease to amaze me. You’ll see examples of great leadership, teamworking, creative thinking, innovation and hard work – in fact all things adults often accuse them of lacking.”

Who knows what the 2007’s challenge will bring – will you be on board?

Girls! Make Your Mark – Wednesday 14th November 2007 Girls! Make Your Mark is a national campaign to encourage more young women to have ideas and make them happen, through running their own business or social enterprise or making an idea happen in the work place.

This campaign is important because amongst 18-34 year olds, female entrepreneurship is half the amount of male entrepreneurship (Enterprise Report 2005: Making Ideas Happen, Ei 2005), and independent start-up activity amongst women is 3.6% compared to 6% amongst men (GEM economic review 2007). In the Northwest as a whole the figure is 3.1%, while in Merseyside, female’s entrepreneurship stands at 3.9% comparing favourably to Manchester at 1.4% (GEM, Merseyside Economic Review 2007).

Little Satsuma, founded by 30 year old Jane Hampson, produce a full range of products for people who strive to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Jane trained as an aromatherapist and masseuse after leaving a job in the city. After learning that farming for palm oil was causing extensive damage to the environment and endangering orang-utan’s Jane search for an alternative lead to the birth of Little Satsuma.

Little Satsuma are the makers of the first palm oil free products in Europe and donates 10% of all profits to the Orang-utan Foundation. They have been listed as one of the top 200 ethical buys in the Green Guide.

Case Study 2 – Clare Molyneux, Open The Door – Theatre in Education “Open the Door Theatre in Education is the most fantastic accident I have ever had!”

Clare is a playwright, poet and stand up comedian.

She founded Open the Door Theatre in Education by accident during the summer of 2003. It now has a full time staff of seven people and three teams of actors performing fifteen plays covering subjects from car crime to sexual health and everything in between.

Clare has also written for television and radio, has had two books published and has had plays produced in Liverpool and London. This would be impressive for anyone but Clare suffers from dyslexia, “I have not succeeded as a writer in spite of my dyslexia but because of it. I relish a challenge” she says.

The Make Your Mark campaign is brought to life through the inspirational stories of young women who have been recruited as ambassadors to empower and motivate other young people.

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Make Your Mark: Change Lives – Thursday 15th November 2007

Make Your Mark @ Work – Tuesday 13th November 2007

Make Your Mark: Change Lives is a campaign to inspire young people to have enterprising ideas that change the world in which they live for the better. Social enterprises are businesses with primarily social or environmental aims and plough back profits to benefit the community.

Make Your Mark at Work is a celebration of all the fantastic ideas generated by employees and a way to encourage employers to nurture a more creative and innovative environment in the workplace.

Social Enterprise currently generates £27 billion a year in the UK. Some great examples include Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant, the Eden Project and the Big Issue. Through Enterprise Week we can inspire the next generation of social entrepreneurs, so get involved!

Case Study – Agent Marketing “All we knew was that we wanted to create a really nice place to work for both our staff and ourselves. Everything else came later on.”

Agent Marketing was established 14 months ago by Paul Corcoran, Wayne Malcolm and Jayne Moore. They were determined to approach marketing and PR in a completely open, honest and environmentally sustainable way. Since Agent Marketing began trading they have gone from strength to strength providing their services for a number of high profile organisations throughout Liverpool.

They have recently been short-listed in two categorise at the Liverpool Echo Enterprise Champions Awards 2007.

Case Study – Urban Revolution and URBin Chris Bradshaw decided to tackle the ever-increasing levels of cigarette and chewing gum litter on our streets by designing an innovative product – the UR Bin. In January 2006, the UR Bin was launched to the British public.

The Liverpool based Urban Revolution has also formed a strong and long lasting partnership with The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation donating £1 to the charity for every bin sold.

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MYM Connect – Friday 16th November 2007

Case Study 2 - Liam Young, OxyUK

Make Your Mark Connectors

Liam Young is 18 and has been in the eBusiness industry since he was 8! He runs a company called OxyUK Technologies Limited, which focuses on eBusiness design, consultation & development. Liam is also a Connector for the campaign. “Make Your Mark is such a fantastic way to connect people together and give young people a hand” said Liam of being a connector.

Connectors are the most networked people you know – they are the people who can’t walk down the street without being stopped 10 times and who use every possible opportunity to network.

Case Study 1 - Zoe Morgan, Greenhouse Greenhouse is a sales and marketing agency based in Liverpool city centre. And in June 2006 they started a free networking evening for Merseyside business owners. Since then the Greenhouse Network has gathered a loyal following.

New faces always welcome to join in at the event which takes place on the third Thursday every month at The Liner Hotel in Liverpool. Alongside running the Greenhouse Network Zoe has also become a Make Your Mark Connector. She has been a valuable asset to the Connectors group with the wide net of contacts she has with young entrepreneurs and because she is committed to connecting them to each other.

MYM Clubs Make Your Mark Clubs are school based enterprise focused clubs giving students a chance to make their mark through generating ideas and making them happen. This autumn the scheme rolls out across the UK with around 20 clubs proposed across the North West.

If you have great ideas, want to start your own Make Your Mark Club, are interested in enterprise or have started your own business and would like to get involved in inspiring future businesses get in touch with the team in Liverpool on liverpool@makeyourmark.org.uk, 0151 703 7460 or for more information on the campaign go to www.makeyourmark.org. uk/liverpool or www.myspace.com/makeyourmarkinliverpool.

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Looking for a career that is rewarding?

Gives you variety and a good salary?

Then think Chemistry.

Think Chemistry and open up a World of Opportunities.

Today chemistry is all about meeting the challenges and needs of our everchanging world; improving people’s lives today but without compromising the planet for future generations.

Chemistry makes our phones mobile, our trainers high-tech and our lips glossy.

Chemistry enhances the flavours of our food and the smell of our perfume.

Chemists make our water safe to drink, keep our food fresh for longer, produce life-saving medicines and make the Earth’s resources more sustainable. Chemistry helps forensic scientists find out not only ‘whodunnit’, but where, when and how.

Studying Chemistry and the chemical sciences can open up a whole world of possibilities and give you a wide range or career choices, from research, development and manufacturing to teaching, business development, marketing, law, finance, journalism, commerce and more.

Where we are, in the North West of England, is the largest region in the whole of the UK for chemical manufacture meaning that is the ideal place to start your journey within an industry that is truly global. The

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chemical and pharmaceutical industries combined are made up of 3200 employers, with a UK workforce of over 200,000 people.

All chemicals end up being used in products purchased by the consumer, everything around us, including our own bodies, is made of chemicals. There may be many stages between the processing of raw materials and the final product but it is estimated that each UK household spends around £30 a week on chemicals, Either directly, as in shampoo, hand wash, detergent, pain killers etc or indirectly in consumer goods such as mp3 players, CDs and clothes.

Source: Cogent SSC website.

Roles using chemistry or chemical science include:

Chemist

Chemists make medicines that help in the fight against cancer and AIDS; make our computer chips smaller and faster; develop the formulations for cosmetics; measure and control the alcohol content of drinks; improve the way that new materials are used, e.g., in roller blades, snowboards and mountain bikes; and protect the environment for future generations.

Graduate starting salaries range from £18,000 to £25,000 per year. Average salary for a Research and Development Manager is £39,000.

Related jobs: Analytical Chemist, Process Development Chemist (working on scale-up of small reactions), Environmental Chemist, Quality/Compliance Chemist, Laboratory Manager

Chemical/Process Engineer

Want to broaden your experience and be better informed about industry?

Many students have no experience of industry and so little understanding of the real day-to-day work of scientists and engineers in companies. This lack of awareness and understanding means students’ perceptions of industry are, at best, neutral and, in many cases, negative. It’s important to change these incorrect views and allow you to make informed decisions about your future career possibilities.

Students in 11-16 (years 7-11) and 11-18 (years 7-13) schools/colleges who are involved in the Chemicals Northwest Collaboration of Schools and Industry, CoSI, Programme can have the opportunity to work with and visit a local chemical company, talk with scientists and engineers and, in some cases, experience hands-on practical work in the company laboratories or on the plant itself.

Chemical and Process Engineers play key roles in the design, build and operation of industrial process plants.

That includes designing or even inventing machinery for anything from the production of base chemicals from raw materials to fine chemicals, plastics, food, drink, pharmaceuticals or biotechnology.

Comments from year 12 AS science students include: “I hadn’t wanted to go on the visit because I thought it would be boring but I found the place and the work that we did really interesting.”

Graduate starting salaries range from £18,000 to £27,000 per year. Experienced chemicals engineers can earn between £30,000 and £40,000 per year while Senior Chartered Chemical Engineers earn on average £52,000 per year

“The interviews were really helpful as I could ask many employees about their personal thoughts about the chemical industry.”

Related jobs: Operations Manager, Site Manager, Technical Plant Manager

Comments from year 10 GCSE science students include:

Process Operator

“The actual place was different to what I’d thought because I though it would be chemically dirty but it was clean and safe.”

Process operators run machinery and monitor equipment on a manufacturing plant. Tasks can include in-process testing, managing plant start-up and shut-down and some maintenance work. This is a demanding and responsible job which can lead to supervisory roles.

Salaries for Process Operators start between £14,500 and £18,500 a year. With experience and extra duties this rises to between £19,000 and £25,000.

Related jobs: Process Engineer, Shift Supervisor/Team Leader

Commercial and Business Development Roles A chemistry degree provides great training for the world of commerce as it demonstrates to employers that have learned the skills of problem-solving, numeracy and communication.

Related jobs: Business Development Manager, Sales and Marketing Manager, Purchasing Manager, Finance Manager

“The best bit was having proper hands-on experience.”

“I’m still deciding on my career but the jobs looked interesting.”

“I found this helpful because we studied some experiments that were being performed in school so I got a first hand look at how the industry performs such tasks.”

“I’ve learnt that industry involves a lot of stages and is interesting.”

“The amount of safety surprised me.”

If you’re interested in your class being involved in the CoSI Programme ask your science teacher to find out about more about it by logging on to the Chemicals Northwest website at www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk and to see how your school/college can get involved in CoSI. Interested? Want to find out more?

Then try these websites: Chemicals Northwest www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk Cogent Sector Skills Council www.cogent-ssc.com Royal Society of Chemistry www.rsc.org

Thinking about choosing your future career can be a really challenging task.

However, if challenges, excitement and variety are what you are looking for in a job then the Army may be the perfect choice for you.

Joining the Army can point you in many different directions and open up some incredible opportunities. For example, when 18 year-old Stacey Robinson left school in Blackpool and was looking for a career she quickly realised that nowhere could provide the same unique challenges and diversity as the Army.

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of soldiering. Although her training was tough Stacey clearly loved every minute, “It was really enjoyable and I made a lot of new friends from the first day”, Stacey commented.

From there, Stacey went on to driver training at Leconsfield in East Yorkshire, where she passed C and C+E heavy duty vehicle licences. After her driving course, Stacey went on to phase 3 training which is a signalling course. Now fully fledged “Trooper Robinson”, Stacey has served in The Royal Logistic Corps since completing her training and is currently waiting to be posted to her first Regiment.

Stacey found her Army experience so fulfilling that she even volunteered for the Army ‘Satisfied Soldier’ scheme.

This is an initiative which allows young people to find out more about the experiences and opportunities the modern British Army can offer first hand from a home town trooper like Stacey.

Stacey continues: “I am really looking forward to building a long and exciting career for myself in the Army and would encourage anyone thinking about their future to consider it. Just give the local Army Careers Office a call or pop in for a chat – it was the best decision I ever made”.

Stacey’s recruiter Sgt Andy Stewart said: “Stacey is a great example to all youngsters who are interested in a career in the Army. Young people need to be aware that the modern British Army is a huge organisation and there are plenty of jobs for all. There are so many opportunities available - there is a career in the Army to suit everyone’s needs.”

To help anyone interested in an Army career, there is also a new on-line psychometric test called Pathfinder at www.armyjobs.mod.uk. This aims to find the best job offer to suit your personality. Also on the site are two other sections called “Job Explorer” and “Ask a Question” where people interested in the Army can find out more.

“I have always wanted an adventurous and rewarding career” she explained, “so joining the Army was the best move I’ve ever made”. Stacey completed her initial training in May 2006 after spending 12 weeks at Army Training Regiment Winchester, learning all the basic skills

Although many are drawn to a career in combat roles, there are lots of other exciting and challenging areas of the Army to choose from. These include engineering, logistics and support, intelligence, IT and comms, HR and finance, medical, as well as specialist areas such as music, law, photography and cooking.

Call your local Army Careers Office or Territorial Centre and visit www.armyjobs.mod.uk for more information.

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The Jive Hub Women in SECT exhibition celebrates the contribution of women to Science, Engineering, Construction and Technology.

From antiquity, women have been active in the world of SECT, but there contributions have often been unrecognised and unrewarded

Many pioneering women were excluded from formal education, which drastically restricted the contribution of women to SECT. In the latter half of the 20th Century, opportunities for women in SECT multiplied. The outbreak of war provided opportunities to women that were not available before.

Yes there is still an under representation of women in these areas today.

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In 2003, the Government launched its strategy for woman in Science, Engineering, Construction and Technology. The strategy aims to redress the imbalanced of women in SECT, retain qualified women, and return qualified women following a career break.

The exhibition is designed to provide visible female role models in the field of SECT, to inspire

and encourage young women and girls into a rewarding and challenging career.

Women qualified in SECT who would like help and advice to Return to a SECT career, or women who would like to support and inspire other women into SECT, should visit the website of the Jive North West Hub: www.jivenorthwest.co.uk or the UK Resource Centre For Women

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www.setwomenresource.org.uk for more information

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71% reported receiving messages online form someone they don’t know.

45% have been asked for personal information by someone they don’t know.

14% have actually met a person face-to-face that they have only spoken to over the internet.

When teens receive messages online from someone they don’t know, 40% reported that they’ll usually reply and chat with that person.

Only 18% said they would tell and adult.

20% of teens think that it is safe to share personal information on a public blog or networking site.

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We at Way2Go want you to utilize the internet. It is important that you expand your mind, hear about new ideas and research your curriculum subjects.

We want you to be aware of the dangers; we want you to be safe!

Cyberbullying Because anything can be posted on the web almost anonymously it is the perfect place to say nasty things about someone, or to start horrible rumours. It is not unusual for children to take personal or humiliating pictures or videos of other children and post it on the web.

Advice: Never answer any one who is being aggressive or hurtful on line. This can only make it worse.

If someone is posting anything about you online, especially personal information, it is important to contact your Internet Service Provider. They can usually have it removed.

Harassment is harassment online or off. If someone is threatening your safety or exposing you to any danger, they are probably breaking the law. Keep all records of your harasses activity and report this behaviour to the police. It will be taken seriously.

Advice: ONLY share your password with a parent or guardian. If you have already given out your password go onto the web sites that uses the same password, there will be a feature that allows you to change it, if there isn’t one contact the web site directly to have the password changed.

Make sure you have a strong username and password that doesn’t give away anything personal, for example don’t use family or friends names, birthdays etc.

Never give out you personal details or E-mail address to anyone you do not know no matter how official the site is. Do not open any messages from anyone you do not know and always delete them.

Grooming Blogs and social networking sites are full of personal information which makes them a perfect place for people who would harm children to identify their victims and gain trust. They will use this trust to make you feel comfortable when you are communicating with them, they may pretend to be a child themselves. Once you consider them a friend they may request to meet with you, if you do, this could have very serious consequences.

Identity Theft

Advice:

Your identity is priceless. There are people out there who actively try to get personal information. If they have your personal details they can pretend they are you, they can buy things by opening accounts in your name or even complete illegal activity while pretending to be you.

Never give any personal details while conversing, if the person is persistent about getting personal information out of you it is likely they are up to no good, finish the communication and have no more contact with them.

Never meet anyone you have only communicated with on-line, however nice they may seem.

How to stay S.M.A.R.T. Safe: You can keep safe by remembering never to give out personal details, such as your name address or passwords, when chatting to people on the internet.

Meeting: Meeting someone you have met online can be extremely dangerous we would advise never to do this.

Accepting: Accepting e-mails, attachments or messages from people we don’t know can lead to lots of problems. They may contain computer viruses or inappropriate material.

Reliable: Remember when talking to people online we cannot rely on the information they tell us to be true.

Tell: If anything you don’t like happens to you online tell a friend, teacher parent or somebody you trust.

Remember this isn’t your fault and can be stopped. If at all possible save the material as this could be used to stop them upsetting anybody else in the future.

We all know about stranger danger and we would never go up to a total stranger in the street and start talking to them, so why is it acceptable to talk to people in chat rooms or online who we don’t know. Remember always stay SMART. (Durham Constabulary S.M.A.R.T Campaign)

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Deciding what to do after school or college can be overwhelming and with so much at stake, where do you even begin? Well, thanks to the annual Skills NorthWest event, you can rest easy! Skills NorthWest brings together the best advice, information and inspiration about your future career all under one roof, and is a great place to start your search.

Taking place on the 13 – 15 November 2007, you can join around 20,000 other young people at the region’s biggest skills event. Held at Manchester Central (formerly known as the GMEX) the event aims to provide a taste of real careers and the skills you’ll need in the world of work.

With a great range of hands on skills demonstrations and interactive activities you will be able to have a go at the kind of tasks you may find yourself doing in your future career. Plus, as well as trying out work-essential skills you’ll be able to talk to people with actual industry experience and get all the advice you need from people in the know.

All sorts of key employers will be represented in industry sectors ranging from environmental industries to hair and beauty, engineering, sport, fitness and much, much more.

There really is something for everyone!

The event will be run in partnership with the Learning and Skills Council in the North West and Paul Holme, LSC Regional Director of Skills for the North West said, “We are

delighted to be supporting Skills NorthWest again this year and are looking forward to seeing so many young people come together as they plan their future careers. The event provides an ideal opportunity to see exactly what’s on offer, to ‘have a go’ at a wide range of activities and to get sound advice and guidance from the experts.”

Skills NorthWest offers an unrivalled arena of choice for young people and has achieved status as the skills event of the year thanks to its calibre of exhibitors. This year confirmed exhibitors include the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy, British Gas, the College of Law, the University of Central Lancashire plus many more. The event showcases employers from a range of industries and demonstrates the best possible range of opportunities by also bringing together exhibitors from colleges, universities, training providers, charities and sector skills councils.

Skills NorthWest is open to all young people in years 10, 11, 12 and 13 as well as college and university students and is a must for those looking to discover more about the career options available. Admission is free and you can come along independently or as part of an organised group with your school or college.

If you want to access the best information and advice about your future career, make sure you don’t miss out on THE skills event of the year. Register for your free ticket today at www.skillsnw.co.uk.

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Blast is the BBC’s scheme to help you get creative. If you’re aged 13-19 and into art, dance, music making, DJing, VJing, filmmaking, radio production, writing or more, Blast is here to help. You may already be well on the way to becoming an emerging artist or you may be an absolute beginner.

We’ve got something for you, whether you’re already immersed in creativity or dipping your toe in the water for the first time. We’ve got a fantastic selection of stuff on the website, work experience opportunities for 2008 coming up and…best of all….we’re coming to Salford in October, offering FREE workshops, taster sessions, masterclasses and showcase events.

How can I get involved?

The first place to look is the website – bbc.co.uk/blast.

You can upload your work or check out galleries of other people’s pictures, music, writing and videos. You can also download cool Blast graphics for your mobile or webspace, make new contacts and chat to like-minded people on the messageboards and get hints and tips from the digital toolbox to get your work noticed online.

We’ve also got a great selection of videos on the site – experts breaking down their skills into easy steps for you to try yourself.

Breakdance, rapping, scratching, eco-fashion, writing – learn from the best…pause, rewind….watch whenever you want.

We’re launching new themes all the time. Making a computer game not your thing? What about making movies with your mobile? Or writing a sci-fi story? There’s always something new on the site…but don’t take our word for it: check it out yourself.

Blast Work Experience If you’re interested in getting to work with the BBC, then you’ll want to keep your eyes open for the Blast Work Experience schemes coming up in 2008. Designed for 18-24 year olds, these opportunities cover a range of areas: you could be working on a Blast on Tour event, learning the ropes as a Blast Reporter or working with radio production teams at Radio 1

and 1Xtra. If you want to be the first in your area to find out about these schemes as soon as they’re announced, sign up to the Blast newsletter at bbc.co.uk/blast/joinblast.

Blast in Salford – 17-20 Oct Blast on Tour is coming so Salford! We’re bringing 30-tonnes of Blast trucks to The Lowry from Wednesday 17 to Saturday 20 October as part of a great creative festival. The Blast Truck is unique – It’s got a TV/Recording Studio, digital workspace and separate performance area and is open to all ability levels. You can try stuff out in sessions and workshops, hone your skills in masterclasses and get hints and tips from industry professionals.

Activities include: • VJing • Making Tracks – performance and songwriting workshop • Scriptwriting masterclass with BAFTA winner Jimmy McGovern • Songwriting masterclass with Tom Hingley • Stage combat with National Youth Theatre • Comic book animation • Graffiti wall with acclaimed graff artist Kelzo And it’s all FREE! For more information and to book a space, go to bbc.co.uk/blast/ontour, email blast-salford@bbc.co.uk or text ‘Blast’ and your question to 63399 (standard text rates apply)

21CC is the BBC’s digital learning centre which works with over 7,500 teachers and pupils every year.

Participants enjoy a rich array of creative learning opportunities at 21CC and the centre also offers regular involvement with a number of exciting partnerships with external organisations. We also deliver projects alongside a wide range of BBC departments such as BBC Blast, BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra Young people at 21CC are inspired to IMAGINE, EXPLORE, LEARN & CREATE while getting to grips with cutting edge technologies, expanding their knowledge and shaping their place in the digital age. The unique classroom space offered by 21CC offers a fun environment to learn new skills and enrich learning across the curriculum.

Pupils, educators and community groups enjoy working alongside an array of highly creative and talented freelance facilitators, all leaders in their respective fields, who help young people attending 21CC to explore new ways of learning to develop and express their creative potential.

Projects range from Augmented Reality, VJ’ing and digital music composition, specially tailored Chromakey & DV projects with SEN learners, to podcasting and news conferences.

21CC offers a wealth of exciting experiences to inspire and engage young and enquiring minds. To date schools have had the opportunity to collaborate with many exciting organisations culminating in events at the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Arena.

We also work with young members of community groups during school holidays, informally building strong relationships with our local community - inviting them to participate with the BBC, and to join in an ongoing creative collaboration.

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ny is a a p m o C k s r e a M he Formed in 1951 t wning o , y n a p m o c g in ipp leading British sh ssels, e v 0 6 r e v o f o t e or manning a fle ff. a t s a e s 0 0 0 2 ly e ximat o r p p a g in y lo p m e 37

Formed in 1951 the Maersk Company is a leading British shipping company, owning or manning a fleet of over 60 vessels, employing approximately 2000 sea staff.

In order to maintain high quality deck and engineering officers, the company runs the ‘Officer Trainee Scheme’ Officer Trainee combine academic studies with practical training onboard state of the art vessels.

“I’ve always been interested in this area and a cadetship seemed to be the best way to become an engineer. It’s good to see and learn. I’ll de doing more main engine work before

I go back to college and qualify for engineering work” Callun Deane – Engineering Cadet “I’ve already seen Dubai, India, Sri Lanka and Singapore. It’s really enjoyable, with a different experience every day – meeting new people, doing practical work as well as studying and being part of a team” Jason McAloone – Deck Cadet “After my first academic year, I embarked on a three-month sea trip aboard the container vessel, Maersk Gateshead, en route from the west coast of America to the Far East. It was a great trip and an amazing experience. I’ll never forget sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge or into Hong Kong Harbour.

Spending time at sea gave me a new prospective on life” Maria Quigley – qualifying cadet joining the Maersk container fleet.

Life at sea with Maersk offers a challenging and rewarding career for highly motivated and proactive individuals.

Get onboard, find out more www.seacareers.co.uk

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Teach First is a unique two-year opportunity for you to be different and to achieve something special. Your energy, intelligence and creativity can transform the futures of students in challenging schools around the UK. At the same time it’s an opportunity to dramatically enhance your own career potential and to make a tangible difference to our society.

Consider the way your life has been changed by the education you have received. Knowledge and the tools to solve problems, insight and appreciation of the world around you, and above all opportunity. Imagine if you could help other young people to access all that.

Teach First takes exceptional graduates and transforms them into inspiring leaders – your leadership, inspiration and above all your example can be the key that unlocks the future for students confronted by a wide range of personal and social issues.

Work locations London, the North West and the Midlands Number of graduate vacancies 360 Disciplines recruited from All disciplines – greatest demand in Maths, Science, English and ICT Minimum degree required 2.1 Minimum UCAS points required 300 Starting salary Competitive Other benefits Training to achieve OTS, opportunity to pursue third year Masters

Your development And while you are transforming the lives of young people in schools around the country, Teach First will help you to maximise your own potential, discover new skills and build on those you already have. High-profile recruiters from all sectors recognise that the skills and strategies developed in the classroom are highly relevant and applicable to management careers. That’s why over 80 companies, government agencies and public bodies back Teach First to develop top talent for the future. Put simply, if you can engage, manage and stimulate a class of under-performing teenagers, you can handle pretty well any situation in any business.

How it works Teach First recruits high-calibre graduates for two years to train and qualify as teachers. Initially you will attend six weeks of intensive training at one of the UK’s leading teacher-training institutions before being assigned to a school. Parallel to your teaching experience you will participate in the Teach First leadership programme – designed and delivered in collaboration with our business supporters and education partners. This will further develop your leadership skills and provide you with valuable contacts, coaching and internship opportunities, and business training. And, as a Teach First Ambassador, you will continue to benefit from engagement with the Teach First network of supporters and alumni long after you complete the programme.

To apply for Teach First or the Accenture/Deloitte/JPMorgan deferred-entry schemes visit www.teachfirst.org.uk Closing date for applications: Winter - 30/11/07 for History, Geography, Citizenship and Modern Foreign Languages and all other subjects if you have a strong regional preference. Final - 28/3/08

If you have ever thought about spending time in a different country, then it might interest you to know that you can combine this desire with your education. Universities, language schools and colleges around the world can offer you the same high quality education as you will find here in this country but with a radically different experience.

Why should you think about studying abroad?

Everyone’s reasons are different but the main advantages of studying abroad include: 1. Enhancing your employment prospects: Understanding other cultures means that job opportunities may come your way that otherwise wouldn’t.

2. Improving your self confidence: Living abroad takes you out of your comfort zone – how you cope will tell you a lot about yourself; you are probably capable of much more than you think.

3. Learning a language: Even if you have stopped learning languages at school, don’t let that put you off picking one up in the future. More students travel to learn languages in the countries where they are spoken than for any other reason. Learning to communicate with other people is always a fantastic achievement of which you can be very

proud.

4. Saving money: OK, this is not always true but it is possible

that the cost of education abroad can be less than staying

at home and it may well be worth your while to investigate.

The relationship between price and quality is not always straightforward.

5. Having fun: Let’s be honest, this is one of the most important things you want from your time in higher education.

Studying abroad is a great way to make friends from around the world while gaining the qualifications you need to get on in life.

Best of both worlds Study in English with classmates from 43 countries Many universities and colleges from around the world now teach English qualifications in the English language, meaning that you can study abroad without having to be fluent in another language. One example of this is Prague College in the Czech Republic.

Prague College specialises in higher education in business, IT and design. They offer Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) accredited by Edexcel.

Through a partnership with the University of Teesside, you can study the first two years of a Business Management BA(Hons) in Prague and then return to the United Kingdom for your final year. This special 2+1 course gives you the chance to experience international education while getting real work experience in a foreign country. If that isn’t enough, annual tuition fees at Prague College are about £1,000 cheaper than in the UK and the cost of living in Prague is only about half the British level.

To find out more about this opportunity, visit www.praguecollege.cz to see their short film.

For more information about this and other opportunities call us on 0191 490 9400 visit our website: www.astarfuture.co.uk.

A Star Future will be visiting schools and colleges in the North West in November 2007. If you would like us to visit your school please get in touch.

Law is a high-profile profession and a popular career choice. People working in law are involved with the administration of a legal system – a set of enforceable rules regulating behaviour in society. This allows them to make an impact on society and contribute towards British justice.

What is the legal system?

Every country has its own legal system with different rules and procedures. There are three different legal systems in the UK, with Northern Ireland and Scotland operating separate systems from England and Wales. In all three areas, many aspects of the law have developed over the centuries. The decisions made by courts have become a body of laws, established principles and procedures, supplemented by Acts of Parliament.

The Court System is administered by the Court Service, which provides the necessary support to the judiciary and the court staff.

What is the work like?

Barristers (in England and Wales) and advocates (in Scotland) give advice about legal cases to their professional clients (mainly solicitors and legal executives) and represent clients (individuals or organisations) in court.

The work includes: n talking to other professional people

such as solicitors, surveyors,

accountants and architects who

consult them on behalf of their clients n giving a written legal opinion - for

example, giving advice as to whether

a case would be successful if taken to

court 41

It is usual for legal practitioners to specialise in one or more branches of law. The main branches are: n Contract n Tort (civil obligations) n Criminal law n Family law n Employment law n Constitutional and Administrative law n Property law n Company law.

A degree-level education is essential for these jobs here we give you a low down on the course you would have to undertake LLB (Hons)

n researching similar cases to the one

that they are advising on reading

law reports and witness statements to

prepare for a court case n representing clients in court, by

presenting the facts of the case to

the judge and jury, cross-examining

witnesses and summing up n using computers for research, report

writing and record keeping.

The amount of time they spend in court depends on the particular area of law they decide to specialise in.

The main areas of work are: n chancery - wills, trusts, estates, taxation

and company law n common law - criminal, contract,

family laws and torts n commerce and industry - giving

general legal advice or specialising in

areas like employment law n central and local government - clients

are civil servants, ministers, council staff

or councillors n Crown Prosecution/Procurator Fiscal

work includes a lot of court work,

conducting prosecutions on behalf

of the police.

During pupillage (the final stage of training) most barristers receive a minimum of ÂŁ10,000 a year.

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Hours and environment Barristers/advocates generally work long hours, including evenings and weekends. It may be necessary to prepare a case or a written opinion at short notice. They may also have to attend evening court sessions.

Most barristers work in offices, which are called chambers. They may have their own office or share one with other barristers. In London, most chambers are in the Inns of Court. In other towns and cities they are near to court buildings.

Advocates in Scotland are members of the Advocates’ Library in Edinburgh, where they work in groups called stables.

Occasionally, barristers and advocates may work at home or in rented offices.

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Interests It helps to have an interest in: n the law n public speaking and debate.

Getting in There are more than 11,564 selfemployed barristers practising in England and Wales, and 400 advocates in Scotland. All advocates are based in Edinburgh. Many barristers are based in London. Others practise in large towns on the administrative circuits - Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Chester, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle.

Barristers/advocates working for large companies or the government tend to work in offices with other members of a legal team.

Barristers/advocates who specialise in criminal work spend a lot of their time in court, where they wear a wig and gown.

A considerable amount of time may be spent travelling between offices and courts.

Salary and other benefits These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live. n During pupillage, most barristers

receive a minimum of £10,000 a year.

Some may get as much as £42,000. n Qualified barristers/advocates are self-employed. The majority earn

between £19,000 and £260,000 a year.

A few top barristers may earn over £1 million. n Employed barristers/advocates receive a salary. In the Crown Prosecution Service, income may vary between £21,506 and £55,088; in the Procurator Fiscal Service, from £22,000 to £52,300.

Skills and personal qualities Barristers/advocates need: n a high level of academic ability and a good memory n excellent spoken communications skills n confidence n good interpersonal skills, to deal effectively with a wide range of clients n to be able to think logically n physical and mental stamina

good presentation skills to be discreet - much information needs to be kept confidential the ability to avoid becoming emotionally involved in distressing cases.

Approximately 2,800 barristers work as salaried employees for large organisations such as specialist commercial law firms and investment or finance companies, and about 800 work in central government departments.

Entry for young people In England and Wales, entrants need to complete two stages of training: academic and vocational.

For the academic training, individuals need to achieve either: n an approved law degree (at least 2:2), or n a non-approved degree (at least 2:2) followed by a postgraduate law conversion course, known as the Common Professional Examination ( CPE), or a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PgDL).

For the vocational training, individuals need to: n Become a student member at one of four Inns of Court and complete a one-year full-time or two-year part-time Bar Vocational Course (BVC), available at eight institutions in England and Wales. They also need to complete two six-month pupillages, working in a chambers under the guidance and supervision of a practising barrister.

n During the first three years of practice, work in chambers or work with another barrister who has at least five years’ experience.

Training Training to become a barrister/ advocate is a very competitive and often costly process. At each stage of training there are more applicants than places, and once qualified it may be hard to secure a tenancy (ie a permanent place) in a set of chambers.

Getting on After 10 to 15 years’ experience barristers/advocates may apply ‘to take silk’ (to become a Queen’s Counsel), which is necessary to progress later to become a Court of Session judge or High Court judge.

Barristers may also become legal advisers in magistrates’ courts.

Advocates may become sheriffs.

Sometimes barristers/advocates move into senior positions in industry and commerce.

Further information Association of Magistrates’ Courts, 185 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5QB. 020 7723 1975.

Website: www.ccmcc.co.uk The Bar Council, 289-293 High Holborn, London WC1V 7HZ. 020 7242 0082.

Websites: www.barcouncil.org.uk and www.legaleducation.org.uk The Crown Prosecution Service, 50 Ludgate Hill, London EC4M 7EX. 020 7796 8000.

Website: www.cps.gov.uk The Faculty of Advocates, Parliament House, Edinburgh EH1 1RF. 0131 226 5071.

Website: www.advocates.org.uk The Law Careers Advice Network - a partnership of the professional bodies and all those involved in the provision of careers advice to students seeking to enter the legal profession.

Website: www.lcan.org.uk The Law Society of Northern Ireland, Law Society House, 98 Victoria Street, Belfast BT1 3JZ. 028 9023 1614.

Website: www.lawsoc-ni.org 42

What is the work like?

Crown prosecutors are qualified solicitors and barristers, who work for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in England and Wales. They are responsible for prosecuting people charged with a criminal offence.

The police carry out investigations into crimes that have been committed. CPS lawyers, with the help of caseworkers, then look at the evidence and decide if there is a sufficient case for prosecution.

(In Scotland, procurators fiscal carry out a similar role, working under the direction of the Lord Advocate.)

The CPS is independent from the police and the investigation process. In each case reviewed, the prosecutor considers whether there is sufficient evidence and, if so, whether the public interest requires a prosecution. These two tests are contained in the Code for Crown Prosecutors and ensure consistency in CPS decisions.

A crown prosecutor’s work may include: n reviewing cases and evidence submitted by the police n advising the police on possible cases for prosecution and the appropriate charge n deciding on alternatives to prosecution, where appropriate n giving advice to the police on collecting evidence and facts in very serious crimes n preparing cases for court, going over evidence and statements from witnesses n researching cases n making sure cases come to court within the strict time limits n conducting the prosecution of criminal cases n working closely with the police authorities and legal professional bodies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the criminal justice system.

Criminal cases can vary widely from a traffic offence to murder. The CPS handles over 1.3 million magistrates’ court cases each year. A further 120,000 cases are heard in the Crown Court.

In addition to advising, crown prosecutors conduct trials, presenting the facts of the case to a judge, cross examining witnesses and summing up. Only a Higher Court Advocate (HCA) - a CPS lawyer with a Higher Rights qualification, can conduct a prosecution in the Crown or higher courts. The CPS also deals with appeals arising from these cases in the Divisional Court, the Court of Appeal and the House of Lords.

They work closely with other law enforcement agencies, the police force.

Hours and environment Crown prosecutors work a flexible 37hour week, Monday to Friday. Weekend and bank holiday cover is required, and prosecutors can volunteer to cover these on a rota basis. It may be necessary to prepare a case or evaluate evidence at short notice. The CPS offers flexible working arrangements, including parttime work and job sharing.

A crown prosecutor works in a CPS office, serving the area of one police force.

The work may involve a lot of travelling, although this it is usually confined to within a county.

Salary and other benefits These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on where people live. n CPS trainees start on £17,888 a year nationally (£18,492 plus £3,000 allowance if based in London). n Crown prosecutors start on £25,648 nationally (£26,954, plus £3,000 allowance if based in London). n They can earn up to £40,744 a year (£46,328, including allowances in London), as a Level D crown prosecutor.

Skills and personal qualities Crown prosecutors need: n a methodical and logical approach n strong attention to detail and a good memory n to manage their time efficiently, confident working on several cases at the same time

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to work well in a team good written and spoken communication skills sound judgement and the ability to work accurately when under pressure. good presentation skills good interpersonal skills, to deal effectively with the public and other agencies in the criminal justice system to be discreet - much information needs to be kept confidential.

Interests It helps to have an interest in: n the criminal justice system.

Getting in There are 2,365 crown prosecutors and 4,800 caseworkers working for the CPS in England and Wales, plus administration staff. There are 42 CPS areas, each headed by a Chief Crown Prosecutor and linked directly to an area police force. There is a separate CPS area covering the whole of London. The CPS covers England and Wales only. (In Scotland there are approximately 335 procurators fiscal and deputes working directly for the Lord Advocate.)

Crown prosecutors need to be qualified barristers or solicitors. Previous experience in criminal law is an advantage, but is not essential.

Vacancies for crown prosecutors are published on the CPS website www.cps. gov.uk, Civil Service websites, and legal publications, such as The Lawyer.

Entry for young people There are three entry routes for crown prosecutors: n Qualified solicitors or barristers who have completed their Legal Practice Course (LPC) or Bar Vocational Course ( BVC) and have completed a two-year legal training contract in the legal profession can apply directly for a crown prosecutor role within the CPS. Experience of criminal litigation is an advantage for applicants. For full details about qualifying as a barrister/ advocate and solicitor see the Jobs4u articles, Barrister/Advocate and Solicitor.

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People who have completed the academic stage of their legal training and have attained their LPC or BVC can apply to the CPS for a training contract. This two-year programme meets the legal training requirements.

Any application for a training contract must be made during CPS recruitment campaigns. Once the training contract has been completed, they can apply for crown prosecutor posts.

Applying for a position as a caseworker or administrative officer, and then applying for the internal CPS Law Scholarship Scheme and Legal Trainee Scheme. Applicants need to have at least 12 months’ qualifying service within the CPS. This is the only route where the CPS will fund LPC and BVC.

For each stage, all applicants have to pass the interview and application stage. There are no guaranteed places.

The CPS does not accept any CV applications.

Training To apply externally for a CPS training contract, applicants must have completed their LPC and BVC. Those successful in securing a training contract with the CPS complete a two-year programme. As the CPS can only provide experience of criminal litigation (one of the three areas of law required by the Law Society), periods of between six to eight months are spent in other government departments, local authorities, private practice or industry to gain the breadth of experience required.

Getting on Progression from crown prosecutor is based on experience and development.

Crown prosecutors may specialise in more complex cases or move into management roles.

There may be opportunities to move into private practice, industry or other institutions. Barristers with 10 to 15 years’ experience may apply ‘to take silk’ (become a Queen’s Counsel) which is necessary to become a Court of Session judge or High Court judge. Solicitors and barristers may also become legal advisers in magistrates’ courts and take part-time judicial appointments.

Further information Association of Magistrates’ Courts, 185 Marylebone Road, London NWI 5QB. 020 7723 1975. Website: www.ccmcc.co.uk The Crown Prosecution Service, 50 Ludgate Hill, London EC4M 7EX. 020 7796 8000. Website: www.cps.gov.uk