York College Accounting, Business & Digital Technologies Apprenticeships

AC C O U N T I N G, BU S I N E S S & D I G I TA L T E C H N O LO G I E S

APPRENTICESHIPS

USE THIS GUIDE TO FIND OUT ABOUT: • Courses available • How to find and apply for an apprenticeship • CV and interview help MKT1474/0620

82%

Overall success rate for Business, 21% above national average

91%

Overall success rate for Accounting, 30% above national average

100%

Overall success rate for Digital, 33% above national average

ACCOUNTING, BUSINESS & DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES APPRENTICESHIPS AVAILABLE AT YORK COLLEGE Accounting:

Digital Technologies:

4 . Accounts/Finance Assistant - Level 2 13.

5 . Assistant Accountant - Level 3 14.

6 . Professional Accounting/Taxation Technician - Level 4 1 5 .

16.

Business & Professional:

7.

8.

10.

11.

12.

Digital Marketer - Level 3 Infrastructure Technician - Level 3 Cyber Security Technologist - Level 4 Software Developer - Level 4

Business Administrator - Level 3 Human Resources Support - Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor - Level 3 CMI Operational/Departmental Manager - Level 5 Learning & Skills Teachers (LST) - Level 5

Apprenticeships are a great way for aspiring accounts, business and digital professionals to gain essential workbased experience, whilst developing their repertoire of employability skills and knowledge of the industry.

These apprenticeships offer the opportunity to work directly within the business, professional and digital technologies industries whilst earning a wage and gaining a recognised qualification that can kick-start, or further enhance, a successful career.

2

HOW ARE APPRENTICESHIPS DELIVERED? Apprentices will typically attend York College on day or block release for the duration of the apprenticeship and work with their employer for the remainder of their contracted hours. Some apprenticeships have an online study element as part of their programme of delivery. During their time in College, apprentices will work towards the knowledge, skills and behaviours, and at work, will consolidate their on-programme learning with the support of their employer.

An assessor will visit the workplace every 8-10 weeks to discuss and monitor progress on the apprenticeship in conjunction with the employer.

STUDY METHOD – ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver some of our apprenticeships through our Online and On Campus model.

Online: lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop - meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace.

On campus: apprentices benefit from face-to-face classes at College with an experienced tutor. A combination of classroom-based lessons, group exercises and discussion encourage apprentices to

WHY B ECOME AN APPRENTIC E? 1. Earn while you learn – apprentices are fully contracted employees in the workplace and earn a weekly wage.

2. Strengthen your CV – apprentices develop their skills and industry knowledge throughout their apprenticeship programme, adding invaluable experience to their employment history.

3. Gain a qualification – upon completion of an apprenticeship, apprentices will gain a nationally, and industry recognised qualification between Level 2 and Level 5.

4. No debt – by studying an apprenticeship whilst working, apprentices will avoid tuition fees.

5. Networking opportunities – by working directly in their chosen sector, apprentices have the opportunity to create vital industry contacts that may lead to future promotional opportunities.

This modern, flexible approach to apprenticeship training empowers learners, minimises disruption to employers, and delivers tangible results in the workplace. Apprentices will attend College once every two weeks and will study online materials during allotted time at work.

HOW DO APPRENTICESHIP QUALIFICATIONS COMPARE TO OTHER COURSES? NAME

LEVEL

EQUIVALENT EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Intermediate

2

Five GCSE passes at 9/A* to 4/C

Advanced

3

Two A Level passes

Higher

4,5,6 & 7

Foundation degree and above

Degree

6&7

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree 3

AC COUNTS/FINAN C E A SSISTA N T - LE VE L 2 COURSE LENGTH - 15-18 MONTHS An Accounts/Finance Assistant is an integral part of the team responsible for maintaining an efficient and accurate finance function within the business. The Accounts/Finance Assistant is responsible for assisting the team of Accountants with junior accounting duties. These can vary massively depending on the team structure and size of business. An Accounts/Finance Assistant’s work could include basic bookkeeping activities, working with sales and purchase ledgers, running

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Three GCSE’s including Mathematics and English at Grade 4/C or equivalent. Previous knowledge of accounting or a Level 1 Bookkeeping qualification would be advantageous but not essential. Employers may also set their own entry criteria depending on the role.

END POINT ASSESSMENT The End Point Assessment consists of: • Structured Interview - supported by a portfolio of evidence.

• In-Tray test - which replicates the typical work an Accounts/Finance Assistant will have to manage in a workplace.

CAREER PROGRESSION On successful completion of the apprenticeship, students may wish to progress onto the Level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship. Progression might also include promotion to a higher-level role within the company, such as an Assistant Accountant or Finance Assistance role.

4

calculations to ensure that records and payments are correct, recording of cash and data entry. Accounts/ Finance Assistants can work in almost any sector.

Potential employers include corporate businesses, sole traders, partnerships, public sector, not-for-profit organisations and educational institutions. Accounts/ Finance Assistants may work in-house for an organisation or they may work for an accountancy firm, bookkeeping practice or self-employed.

A AT A SSISTANT AC C OU N TA N T - LE VE L 3 COURSE LENGTH - 15-18 MONTHS This qualification will prepare apprentices for junior and entry-level accounting roles. It delivers a solid foundation in finance administration, covering areas such as double entry bookkeeping and basic costing principles. Learners will then move on to mastering more complex accounting disciplines including financial processes, advanced bookkeeping, final accounts and ethical practices for accountants.

This internationally recognised AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification enables those working in accounting or those who are looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the allimportant certification often sought by employers.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS Applicants will need to be employed in a relevant accounting role. Five GCSEs including grade 4/C (or above) in Mathematics and English or Functional Skills Level 2 English and Maths. Good keyboarding skills are essential as well as a good knowledge of Microsoft Office. Achievement of an AAT Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Accounting is advantageous but not essential.

END POINT ASSESSMENT A synoptic end-test covering the knowledge and skills gained throughout the on-programme stage and detailed in the standard. A portfolio and reflective discussion which will comprise a range of evidence produced in the work-place to show that the Apprentice has met the knowledge, skills and behaviors detailed in the standard. The reflective discussion will be a structured interview to examine this evidence and the learner journey in more detail.

CAREER PROGRESSION Upon successful completion of the Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship, you can apply for AAT associate bookkeeping membership and become a professional AAT Bookkeeper (AATQB). Students can also progress onto the AAT Professional Accounting Technician Apprenticeship - Level 4.

The skills and knowledge you will gain throughout this apprenticeship will qualify you for roles including Finance Officer, Assistant Accountant and Bookkeeper. You will also be eligible for AAT Bookkeeper (AATQB) status, giving you the option to work as a freelance bookkeeper.

STUDY METHOD ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus model. See page 3 for further details.

Due to COVID-19, this course is currently being delivered solely online.

5

PRO F E SSIO NAL ACC OUNTING/TAXATI O N TE C H N ICIAN - LEVEL 4 COURSE LENGTH - 21-24 MONTHS This apprenticeship will develop the knowledge, understanding, skills and behaviours required for a Professional Accountant/Taxation Technician. The apprentice will have responsibility for creating and/or verifying and reviewing, accurate and timely financial information within the organisation in which they are employed or on behalf of another organisation. This role may exist in an accounting practice, a professional services company, HMRC or the accounting function of another organisation.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS Level 3 AAT Apprenticeship/qualification or Assistant Accountant qualification or equivalent experience in industry. Candidates must have a Level 2 in Mathematics and English (equivalent to GCSE grade 4/C or above), ideally as part of five GCSE 9-4/A*-C grades or other comparable qualifications. Individual employers may set an additional criteria.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Assessment throughout the Apprenticeship includes: On-programme Assessment: This is an important element of the learning process as apprentices acquire the relevant knowledge, skills and behaviours. There are two distinct and separate routes to completing the On-programme Assessment - the Examination Route and the Work Experience Route.

End Point Assessment: This is attempted after the On-programme Assessment and comprises of two components that are graded Pass/Distinction/Fail: • A portfolio of evidence that demonstrates competence in the knowledge, skills and behaviours defined in the apprenticeship, which have been gathered from practical experience in the workplace. • A role simulation, giving the apprentice the opportunity to tackle a series of business-related tasks through a simulation that reflects activities undertaken in a typical role at this level of competence.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS A senior role in a variety of positions within the Accounting industry.

STUDY METHOD - ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus model. See page 3 for further details.

6

BU SI N E SS ADMINI STRATION - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 18 MONTHS Business Administrators have a highly transferable set of knowledge, skills and behaviours that can be applied in all sectors. This includes small and large businesses alike; from the public sector, private sector and charitable sector. The role may involve working independently or as part of a team and will involve developing, implementing, maintaining and improving administrative services. Business Administrators develop key skills and behaviours to support their own progression. The responsibilities of the role are to support and engage with different parts of the organisation and interact with internal or external customers, with a focus on adding value.

The Business Administrator is expected to deliver their responsibilities efficiently and with integrity – showing a positive attitude. The role involves demonstrating strong communication skills and adopting a proactive approach to developing skills.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship or equivalent, or experience in industry at a senior position. GCSE grade 4/C (or above) in Mathematics and English or Functional Skills at Level 2. An interest in the area of study. The employer may also have their own specific selection criteria in addition to York College entry requirements.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Functional Skills at Level 2 must be achieved before an apprentice can progress to the End Point Assessment which includes the following areas: • Online • Multiple choice test • Portfolio interview

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship is an ideal stepping-stone into team leading, supervisory or line management roles within retail, and to higher-level training and apprenticeships. Apprentices may progress into a more senior role within their current business environment, or another career within the business environment, for example accounting.

• Project presentation An independent assessor will award an overall grade of Pass/Distinction/Fail.

7

H R SU PPO RT - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 18-21 MONTHS Those in the Human Resources Support role have a highly transferable set of knowledge, skills and behaviours that can be applied in all sectors. This includes small and large businesses alike; from the public sector, private sector and charitable sector. The role may involve working independently or as part of a team and will involve developing, implementing, maintaining and improving administrative services. Those undertaking the Human Resources Support apprenticeship will develop key skills and behaviours to support their own progression. The responsibilities of the role are to support and engage with different parts of the organisation and interact with internal or external customers, with a focus on adding value. The Human Resources Support role is expected to deliver their responsibilities efficiently and with integrity – showing a positive attitude. The role involves demonstrating strong communication skills and adopting a proactive approach to developing skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Candidates will usually have five GCSEs at grade 4/C (or above/equivalent) including English and Mathematics. Employers may also set their own specific entry criteria.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Apprentices must pass the End Point Assessment in order to achieve the apprenticeship certificate which comprises of two components: • A Consultative Project - which contains a range of evidence demonstrating that the apprentice has met the requirements of specific knowledge and skills.

• A Professional Discussion - that will explore the specific skills and behaviours.

Both components will need to be passed in order for the apprentice to be awarded the apprenticeship.

CAREER PROGRESSION The qualification forms the foundation of a career within the profession, giving the base for further development through a career path within an organisation and/or through the HR Consultant/Partner Apprenticeship. The apprentice can choose to stay within core HR or diversify into one of the specialist areas of HR.

STUDY METHOD - ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus model. See page 3 for further details.

8

9

TE A M LEADER / SUPERVISOR - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 18-21 MONTHS A team leader/supervisor is a first line management role, with operational/project responsibilities or responsibility for managing a team or discrete project to deliver a clearly defined outcome. They provide direction, instructions, and guidance to ensure the achievement of set goals.

Working in the private, public or third sector and in all sizes of organisation, specific responsibilities will vary, but the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed will be the same whatever the role. This apprenticeship covers a wide range of business management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Candidates will usually have five GCSEs at grade 4/C (or above/ equivalent) - including English and Mathematics. Employers may set their own specific entry criteria.

END POINT ASSESSMENT

CAREER PROGRESSION

Apprentices must pass the End Point Assessment in order to achieve the apprenticeship certificate which comprises of four components:

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, there is an opportunity to study CMI courses at Level 5 and Level 8. Apprentices may choose to register as Associate members with the Chartered Management Institute and/or the Institute of Leadership & Management, to support their professional career development and progression. The apprenticeship could lead to a promotion or will support you competently fulfil a current role and responsibilities.

• Assessment of knowledge through a test using scenarios, questions and responses.

• Assessment of competency through competency-based interview.

• Assessment of portfolio of evidence which is collated during work/study time.

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Log reviewed and a professional discussion/questions and answers session.

All components will need to be passed in order for the Apprentice to be awarded the Apprenticeship.

10

STUDY METHOD ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus

CM I O PERAT IO NAL/ DEPARTMENTAL M A NAGER – LEVEL 5 COURSE LENGTH - 48 MONTHS The Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship is accredited by The Chartered Management Institute. Apprentices learn on-the-job, applying new skills to their existing role. It is ideal for those who are, or who wish to become, Operational/Departmental Managers, or existing managers who have practical management skills, but wish to develop their theoretical understanding further. This course is studied on-the-job, on campus and online in partnership with Mindful Education.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their apprentices though most will be expected to hold five GCSEs at grade 4/C or higher. Prior experience may also be considered. Apprentices should also have achieved qualifications in English and Maths at a minimum of Level 2 or equivalent. Where this is not the case, apprentices must complete these by the end of the apprenticeship.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Grading takes place at the end of the apprenticeship, following the End Point Assessment. The output is a single grade: Pass, Merit, Distinction for the entire apprenticeship.

CAREER PROGRESSION On completion of the apprenticeship the student may continue and progress in employment. Apprentices will be awarded a Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership and will also be eligible to register as full members of the CMI and have the opportunity to study CMI courses at higher levels up to Level 8.

STUDY METHOD - ONLINE AND ON CAMPUS We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus model. See page 3 for further details.

11

LE A R N I NG AND SKILLS TEAC HER ( LST ) COURSE LENGTH - TYPICALLY 24 MONTHS TO GATEWAY

The Learning and Skills Teacher (LST) is ‘dual-professional’, having first achieved competence in a vocational or subject specialism and then subsequently trained as a teacher. LSTs teach young people and adults within all parts of the Educational Testing Service (ETS), including: work-based/independent training provision; further, adult and higher education; offender-learning; and the voluntary sector. LSTs are responsible for planning and delivering learning that is current, relevant, challenging, and that inspires learners to engage and achieve their full potential.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Individual employers may set any entry requirements but these may typically include; competence in vocational and/or specialist subject at an appropriate level, confirmation of current vocational/specialist subject knowledge, up-to-date knowledge of workplace practice, a willingness to continue to develop personal ICT skills to a level in-line with the LST role, reference to the Education and Training Foundation’s (2016) Minimum Core Guidance, and any subsequent updates. Apprentices without a Level 2 English and Maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End Point Assessment.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Grading takes place at the end of the apprenticeship, following the End Point Assessment. The output is a single grade: Pass, Merit or Distinction for the entire apprenticeship.

CAREER PROGRESSION With the employer’s approval, the LST could progress onto curriculum/training leadership roles following an adequate period of experience teaching at this level, within the sector.

12

D I G I TAL MARKETER - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 24 MONTHS Digital industries apprentices are employed in a wide variety of different organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors. The primary role of a Digital Marketer is to define, design, build and implement digital campaigns across a variety of social media and online platforms to drive customer acquisition, customer engagement and customer retention. A Digital Marketer will typically be working as part of a team; in which they will have responsibility for some of the straightforward elements of the overall marketing plan or campaign(s). The apprentice marketer will work to marketing briefs and instructions. They will normally report to a Digital Marketing Manager, Marketing Manager or an IT Manager.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS There is a requirement to have five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, or equivalent, (including English, Mathematics and a science or technology subject) or a relevant Level 2 Apprenticeship or other relevant qualifications and experience. Individual employers may set an additional criteria.

Employers are likely to be looking for a proven passion for digital and social media.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Grading takes place at the end of the apprenticeship, following the End Point Assessment. The output is a single grade: Pass, Merit or Distinction for the entire apprenticeship.

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship is recognised for entry onto the Register of IT Technicians and those completing their apprenticeships are eligible to apply for registration. Completion of the apprenticeship would also allow access to join as an Affiliate (Professional) member of the CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) and/or Associate membership of BCS (British Computer Society) and could lead to promotion within your role or your organisation or to a higher-level programme of study.

13

I NF R AST RU CT U RE TEC HNICIAN -LEVE L 3 COURSE LENGTH - 15 MONTHS The Level 3 Infrastructure Technician Apprenticeship has been designed by employers. It is suitable for those employers looking to recruit and train people to provide technical support to internal and external customers and will help them to be productive in their use of technology required for their role. Typical job roles include; Helpdesk Technician, First or Second Line Support, IT Infrastructure Technician and Network Support. Apprentices must achieve one internationally recognised vendor or professional qualification and will complete the following knowledge modules: Networking and Architecture, Mobile and Operating Systems, Cloud Services, Coding and Logic and Business Processes.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS There is a requirement to have five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, or equivalent, (including English, Mathematics and a science or technology subject) or a relevant Level 2 Apprenticeship or other relevant qualifications and experience. Individual employers may set additional criteria.

END POINT ASSESSMENT The End Point Assessment will be carried out by the BCS (British Computer Society) and is likely to include a synoptic project, summative portfolio and an interview which will be marked holistically by the Independent Assessor with a grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction.

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship is recognized for entry onto the register of IT Technicians confirming SFIA Level 3 professional competence and those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration. Completion of this apprenticeship can lead to promotion within your role or your organisation or to a higher-level programme of study.

14

CY B E R SECU RIT Y TECHNOLOGIST -L E V E L 4 COURSE LENGTH - UP TO 27 MONTHS The primary role of a Cyber Security Technologist is to apply an understanding of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, control measures and mitigations to protect organisations systems and people. There will be a focus on the technical aspects such as security design & architecture, security testing, investigations and response, as well as the organisational aspects such as policies, procedures and legal requirements. Typical job roles include: Security Architect, Intelligence Researcher, Cyber Security Specialist, Information Security Analyst, Forensics & Incident Response Analyst and Information Security Auditor.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS There is a requirement to have A Levels, a relevant Level 3 Apprenticeship, a Level 3 qualification or other relevant qualifications and experience. In addition candidates should have GCSE Mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above or an equivalent qualification.

Individual employers may set an additional criteria.

END POINT ASSESSMENT The End Point Assessment will be carried out by the British Computer Society (BCS) and is likely to include a synoptic project, summative portfolio and an interview which will be marked holistically by the Independent Assessor with a grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction.

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship is recognised for entry to both IISP and BCS Associate Membership and for entry onto the Register of IT Technicians confirming SFIA Level 3 professional competence.

Those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration.

Completion of this apprenticeship can also lead to promotion within your role or your organisation or to a higher-level programme of study.

15

SO F T WARE DEVELOPER - LEVEL 4 COURSE LENGTH - UP TO 27 MONTHS This Level 4 apprenticeship is suitable for employers looking to recruit and train people to build and test simple, high-quality code across front-end, logic and database layers. A Software Developer apprentice will typically be working as part of a larger team, in which they will have responsibility for some of the straightforward elements of the overall project. Typical job roles include; Web Developer, Application Developer, Mobile App Developer, Games Developer and Software Developer.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS There is a requirement to have A Levels, a relevant Level 3 Apprenticeship, a Level 3 qualification or other relevant qualifications and experience. In addition, candidates should have GCSE Mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above or an equivalent qualification.

Individual employers may set additional criteria.

END POINT ASSESSMENT End Point Assessment will be carried out by the British Computer Society (BCS) and is likely to include a synoptic project, summative portfolio and an interview which will be marked holistically by the Independent Assessor with a grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction.

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship is recognised for entry onto the register of IT Technicians confirming SFIA Level 3 professional competence and those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration. Completion of this apprenticeship can lead to promotion within your role or your organisation or a higher-level programme of study.

16

OUR A PPRENT ICE S After completing a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Business Administration at FERA (The Food and Environment Research Agency) Catherine secured a permanent job as a Customer Support Team Administrator within the organisation. Her role involves working with plant material, invertebrate pests and soil samples, logging results onto a database and typing reports for commercial customers.

I enjoyed gaining practical hands-on experience working in an office based environment whilst being able to relate it to the academic side of my qualifications. Speaking with customers and dealing with staff helped to build my confidence and I am sure this will help with my long term career goals.

The teaching from York College was good, along with the assessment visits to my work place. My tutors and assessors were easy to get along with and made studying more enjoyable and easy going. If I was stuck on anything they always found time to help and advise me.

Catherine White Business Administration Level 3 Apprentice with FERA

As digital marketer, my main duties were running the company’s social media sites and finding new ways to market their products by taking, editing and posting photos, messaging potential customers, finding advertising opportunities and finding ways in which to raise their online profile.

Luke Burnett Digital Marketer Level 3 Apprentice with Seat Surgeons Luke started at Seat Surgeons as a placement student where he quickly proved how invaluable he was when he successfully generated over ÂŁ20,000 in sales. From this he was taken on as a Digital Marketer apprentice.

17

YO UR NEX T ST EPS Taking your next steps to apply to your chosen apprenticeship can feel like a daunting experience. Here are some steps you could take to help reach your goal.

STEP 1 Email your CV to businessdevelopment@yorkcollege.ac.uk stating what apprenticeships you are interested in. We will then send you available vacancies.

STEP 2 Come and meet us – attend an Open Event to find out more about how our apprenticeships run and see the facilities.Visit our website to find out the next Open Event dates and times.

STEP 3 Apprenticeships are a job with training, be prepared to complete an application and undertake an interview with the employer and College.

STEP 4 If you are successful at interview you will then be given a start date for your apprenticeship.

ALTERNATIVELY, STEP 1 Use www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk or visit www. yorkcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships to see the latest apprenticeships available.

Apply through this service.

18

HOW TO W RIT E A N APPRENTICESHIP APPL I C AT IO N BEFORE YOU START Collect anything that might help you such as: • Your CV • Any qualification certificates or predicted grades • Work or voluntary roles

REMEMBER • Read the job description carefully • Do your research on the company • Have a genuine interest in the position you are applying for • Think about location and how you’ll get to/from work

TOP TIPS • Print off a copy of the job description and highlight all the keywords they have used so you can use them in your application.

• Ensure you show you have met entry criteria or are predicted to!

E-Guidance Do you need some help?

Our qualified careers advisors are readily available to help you. If you need help with writing your CV or just want someone to look over it, our careers advisors can help, email careers@yorkcollege.ac.uk

19

HOW TO W RIT E A GOOD CV

WHAT DO I NEED TO INCLUDE? A CV which stands for curriculum vitae, is a document used when applying for jobs. It allows you to summarise your education, skills and experience enabling you to successfully sell your abilities to potential employers.

• Contact details • A profile • Education • Work experience • Skills and achievements • Interests • References

COMMON MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN CREATING A CV • Poor formatting • Failing to tailor your application • Spelling errors • Lying • Lack of evidence • Not explaining ‘why’ • Ignoring gaps in your work history

Find out more about CV formats, what to include and how to avoid common mistakes, online at www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice

20

H OW TO PREPARE FOR AN INTERVIEW Before securing a job you will have to pass the interview stage. Interviews allow employers to verify that you have the right skills and experience for the job and that you will fit in well in their organisation. Interviews can be a stumbling block for a lot of people and a key to success in the job market for others. The best way to ensure that you are successful is preparation!

TOP TIPS • Practice makes perfect. Practice with your family, friends or even in front of a mirror.

• Have a good think about your own skills and experience, and how you will relate them to the job itself.

• Preparation is key. Make sure you know where the interview is and how to get there. Try and find out who’s going to interview you and if there are any pre-interview tasks. Be on time!

• You need to make sure you know and understand the job description and person specification. That way you will know what exactly the employer is looking for. Research the company you are applying for: questions about the organisation you want to join are likely to be part of the interview. You may have declared your passion for a certain subject or industry, so be prepared to demonstrate it.

• Know your personal statement or application letter inside-out. Interviewers might ask you to back up any claims from your statement, so make sure you remember what you wrote.

• Rehearse your travel route and make sure you get a good night’s sleep. You might be nervous, but don’t skip your meals and stay hydrated.

• How to dress? Be smart and look the part, but wear something that also makes you feel comfortable.

21

OTHE R O PPO RT U NITIES AT YO R K CO LLEG E With courses designed with your future employability in mind and designed to work alongside work or other life commitments, York College University Centre could be a perfect fit for you. We have a wide range of courses that are flexible and personalised to suit your career aspirations. We can provide the support, flexibility, contact time and teaching required to help students of all types succeed.

3D D ESIGN & CREAT I VE PR AC T I C E | FA S H I O N BUSINESS | ACCOU NT I NG | C Y B E R SE C U R I T Y CHILDREN’S DEVELO PME NT |GR A PHI C DE S I GN CON STRU CTION | TEAC HE R T R A I NI NG | MA R KE T I N G COUNSELLING | MA NAGE ME NT & LE A DE R SH I P QUA L ITY ASSURANC E | H E A LT H & S O C I A L C A R E ME D IA MAKE- UP | T R AVE L & TO U R I SM | FI LM ACTING FO R SC R E E N & S TAGE E NGINEERING | GA ME DE VE LO PME NT

A D ULT LEARNING At York College we offer a variety of courses for adults, ranging from industry-recognised professional qualifications, courses to help with retraining for a career change, and courses purely for enjoyment and personal development.

With supportive tutors and excellent facilities, we have an excellent track record for helping students enjoy new experiences, enabling them to succeed within a supportive learning environment.

For more information on studying a degree, higher-level or adult learning course visit the York College website www.yorkcollege.ac.uk call InfoZone - 01904 770770 or email info@yorkcollege.ac.uk 22

N OT E S

23

YO R K CO LLEG E OPEN EVENTS WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU. Our Open Events are the perfect opportunity for you and your friends and family to visit York and the College, to meet with our knowledgeable tutors and explore the College facilities. Here you will have the opportunity to find out about courses, funding, transport and support available, all with the aim to help you discover the best study option for you.

For the upcoming Open Event dates and times, visit the website, www.yorkcollege.ac.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT APPRENTICESHIPS PLEASE CONTACT US: T: 01904 770368 (option 1) E: businessdevelopment@yorkcollege.ac.uk A: Sim Balk Lane, York, YO23 2BB York_Col_BDU BduYork York College Business Development Unit