York College Engineering & Science Apprenticeships

ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE

APPRENTICESHIPS

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

EN GI N E ERING AND SC IENCE A PPR E N T ICESHIPS AVAILAB LE AT YOR K C O LLEG E Engineering:

Motor Vehicle:

4. Engineering Design - Level 3

14. Autocare - Level 2 15. Motor Vehicle - Level 3

5. Engineering Fitter – Level 3 7. Engineering Technician - Level 3 9. Maintenance and Ops - Level 3 10. Engineering Manufact - Level 4 12. Metal Fabricator – Level 3

Science: 16. Lab Technician - Level 3 18. Science Manufact - Level 3

Apprenticeships are a great way for aspiring engineering/science professionals to gain essential work-based experience, whilst developing their repertoire of employability skills and knowledge of this industry. Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to work directly within the engineering or science industries whilst earning a wage and gaining a recognised qualification that can kick-start, or further enhance, a successful career.

2

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.

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. 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.

3. Gain a qualification – upon completion of an apprenticeship, apprentices will gain a nationally, and industry recognised qualification between Level 2 and Level 4.

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

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

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

E N GI N E ERING DESIGN AND D R AUG HT SPERSO N - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 48 MONTHS ENTRY REQUIRMENTS To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C/4 or above, including GCSE Maths (higher) at grade 5 or above GCSE English grade 4/C or above and also a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or above.

To ensure that the apprenticeship standard and pathway is appropriate for the job role, both the employer and apprentice will have a consultation with the Engineering Department prior to enrolment. A bespoke training plan will be created for apprentices with any prior engineering qualifications.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Successful achievement of the End Point Assessment will lead to final certification of the apprenticeship. The assessment, with an independent assessor, will include; a knowledge test, practical test and a structured interview.

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship has been designed to meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). The apprenticeship will allow the apprentice to continue onto full employment. If supported by the employer, progression could include HNC/HND/Degree (BEng) in a relevant discipline, and/or a Higher Apprenticeship.

4

This apprenticeship is for those apprentices who are carrying out Engineering Design and Draughtsperson roles; typically producing designs and drawings for structures, electrical systems, control and instrumentation systems, mechanical components and rail infrastructure used in industrial and commercial situations. Apprentices would typically be based at office locations within project design teams and occasionally work at on-site locations. They will develop an understanding of on-site hazards and health and safety requirements, as well as technical drawings and specifications; identifying factors likely to affect design decisions; producing computer aided design (CAD) models and engineering drawings and communicating design information to internal and external parties.

EN GI N E ERING FITTER - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 48 MONTHS Engineering Fitters produce complex high value, low volume components or assemblies in full or part, using machines, equipment or systems to required specifications e.g. turbines, cranes, gearboxes, production lines, rigs and platforms. Fitters may typically have a mechanical, electrical, electronic, control systems, pipe fitting or instrumentation bias or operate across multiple disciplines depending on the type of assembly. To produce or re-furbish the components, fitters will interpret drawings/specifications and plan their work e.g. ensuring they have the right tools, equipment and resources to complete the task to the required specification.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C/4 or above, including GCSE Maths (higher) at grade 5 or above GCSE English grade 4/C or above and also a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or above.

To ensure that the apprenticeship standard and pathway is appropriate for the job role, both the employer and apprentice will have a consultation with the Engineering Department prior to enrolment. A bespoke training plan will be created for apprentices with any prior engineering qualifications.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Successful achievement of the End Point Assessment will lead to final certification of the apprenticeship. The assessment, with an independent assessor, will comprise of 3 elements: • project: report including evidence and questioning • multiple choice test • professional discussion supported by portfolio of evidence

CAREER PROGRESSION Completion of the apprenticeship is designed to be recognised by relevant Professional Engineering Institutions at the appropriate level of professional registration, such as, IET -EngTech. The qualification also will support the apprentice into full-time work within industry.

5

6

E N GI N EERING T ECHNICIAN - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 48 MONTHS Engineering Technicians take responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake within the limits of their personal authority. They also need to be able to demonstrate a core set of behaviours in order to be competent in their job role, and to complement wider business strategy and development. This will enable them to support their long-term career development.

Engineered and manufactured products and systems that Engineering Technicians work on could involve mechanical, electrical, electronic, electromechanical, and fluid power components/systems.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C/4 or above, including GCSE Maths (higher) at grade 5 or above GCSE English grade 4/C or above and also a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or above.

To ensure that the apprenticeship standard and pathway is appropriate for the job role, both the employer and apprentice will have a consultation with the Engineering Department prior to enrolment. A bespoke training plan will be created for apprentices with any prior engineering qualifications.

END POINT ASSESSMENT End Point Assessment must take place in the final months of the apprenticeship, using the following methods: An Occupational Competence Validation Interview (Viva) drawing from a portfolio of evidence of occupational competence and a Professional Competence Assessment undertaken by independent assessor(s) from the relevant PEI/MIAA and final employer endorsement.

CAREER PROGRESSION Completion of the apprenticeship is designed to be recognised by relevant Professional Engineering Institutions at the appropriate level of professional registration (EngTech).

In the case of the Military specific pathway in the Aircraft Maintenance Fitter/ Technician Standard, professional competence will be recognised by the Military Independent Assessment Authority (MIAA). The qualification also will support the apprentice into full-time work within industry.

7

8

M A I N TENANCE AND OPERATIONS EN G I N EERING T ECHNICIAN - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH: 48 MONTHS This apprenticeship is for those apprentices who are employed in an engineering environment, covering an electrical and/or mechanical maintenance role. This could include Electrical Technicians, Mechanical Technicians and Plant Operations Technicians who maintain the safety, integrity and effective operation of the plant and equipment in a production or manufacturing environment. Technicians undertake installation, testing, servicing, removal, replacement, maintenance, and repair of a range of equipment.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade 4/C or higher, including GCSE Mathematics at grade 5/B or higher. GCSE English grade 4/C or higher and a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or higher. To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C/4 or above, including GCSE Maths (higher) at grade 5 or above GCSE English grade 4/C or above and also a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or above.

To ensure that the apprenticeship standard and pathway is appropriate for the job role, both the employer and apprentice will have a consultation with the Engineering Department prior to enrolment. A bespoke training plan will be created for apprentices with any prior engineering qualifications.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Successful achievement of the End Point Assessment will lead to final certification of the apprenticeship. The assessment, with an independent assessor, will comprise of a knowledge assessment, practical assessment and technical interview.

CAREER PROGRESSION This apprenticeship has been designed to meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). If support by the employer, progression could include HNC/D/Degree (BEng) in a relevant discipline, and/or a Higher Apprenticeship. The qualification also will support the apprentice to progress to full-time work within industry.

9

EN G I N EERING MA NUFACTURING T E C H N ICIAN - LEVEL 4 COURSE LENGTH - 48 MONTHS This Apprenticeship is designed to provide the manufacturing and engineering sectors with high-grade technicians and engineers who have practical skills, combined with a higher education qualification. This will facilitate progression onto Level 5 and 6 qualifications and enable them to work towards “Incorporated Engineer� status.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide specialist technical support for engineers, so that organisations can develop, produce or test new/existing products, processes or procedures to meet a customer specification in terms of quality, cost and delivery as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Engineering Manufacturing Technicians gather information and data from a range of sources and analyse the information/data.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS To be enrolled onto this Level 4 Apprenticeship ideally you will have completed a Level 3 Advanced Engineering Apprenticeship or have achieved a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering.

To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C/4 or above, including GCSE Maths (higher) at grade 5 or above GCSE English grade 4/C or above and also a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or above.

To ensure that the apprenticeship standard and pathway is appropriate for the job role, both the employer and apprentice will have a consultation with the Engineering Department prior to enrolment. A bespoke training plan will be created for apprentices with any prior engineering qualifications.

END POINT ASSESSMENT The End Point Assessment consists of two assessment methods which must be achieved in order to be awarded the apprenticeship: Observation with questioning and professional discussion that will be supported by a portfolio of evidence.

CAREER PROGRESSION The Apprenticeship is an ideal platform to progress onto a BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Engineering, and then onto a degree apprenticeship or top-up degree.

The qualification also will support the apprentice to progress to full-time work within industry.

10

11

M E TAL FABRICATOR – LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 48 MONTHS The broad purpose of the occupation is to carry out metal fabrication work using rolled steel joists, columns, channels, steel plate and metal sheet etc. Fabricators use a large range of metals including steel, aluminium and titanium at a range of thicknesses from 0.5mm up to over 20mm. The size and weight of the fabrications can range from very small components to huge structures that require several cranes to manipulate. In their daily work, fabricators interact with planners, supervisors, inspectors, designers, welders, pipefitters, fitters, machinists, riggers, steel erectors, stores personnel, painters and many others involved in manufacturing, production, maintenance and repair.

Metal Fabricators work includes manufacturing bridges, oil rigs, ships, petro-chemical installations, cranes, platforms, aircraft, automotive and machinery parts, sheet metal enclosures, equipment supports and anything that can be fabricated out of metal.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS To start the course you must be employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You should have as a minimum five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C/4 or above, including GCSE Maths (higher) at grade 5 or above GCSE English grade 4/C or above and also a science or technical subject at grade 4/C or above.

To ensure that the apprenticeship standard and pathway is appropriate for the job role, both the employer and apprentice will have a consultation with the Engineering Department prior to enrolment. A bespoke training plan will be created for apprentices with any prior engineering qualifications.

END POINT ASSESSMENT Successful achievement of the end-point assessment will lead to final certification of the apprenticeship. The assessment, with an independent assessor, will comprise of: • Practical observation – to assess the apprentice’s application of skills within the apprentice’s place of work or in a suitable environment away from the workplace (e.g. in a centre approved by the EPAO) • Professional discussion – to holistically assess knowledge, skills and behaviours across the standard and will be informed by portfolio of evidence

CAREER PROGRESSION Completion of the apprenticeship is designed to be recognised by relevant Professional Engineering Institutions at the appropriate level of professional registration, such as, IMechE – Eng Tech, IET – ENG Tech and Royal Aeronautical Socienty – Eng Tech.

The qualification also will support the apprentice into full-time work within industry.

12

13

AUTO C A RE T ECHNICIAN - LEVEL 2 COURSE LENGTH - 33 MONTHS This apprenticeship is ideal for prospective apprentices who would like a career in the motor vehicle industry.

This could be with a main dealer, independent garage or a specialist garage who work on specialist types of vehicle i.e. racing teams and classic cars. Within North Yorkshire and nationwide, employers are looking for motivated, skilled and fully qualified Motor Technicians to enhance and grow their businesses. Apprentices would typically be based at the garage location, however, this can vary from garage to garage depending on the business. As an apprentice you will develop an understanding of health and safety within the workplace.

You will learn to work to strict deadlines and work closely with others within a team. As you develop your repair knowledge you will increase your skills and performance and become a valuable team member.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Before starting the apprenticeship you must be employed in the relevant area for a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Candidates should have four GCSE’s at grade 3/D or higher which ideally includes Mathematics and English. Any candidate without Mathematics and English grade 4/C will be required to attend Functional Skills classes.

END POINT ASSESSMENT The apprentice must be competent and have covered all the criteria to be deemed ready for End Point Assessment. The End Point Assessment includes a knowledge test, practical observation and a professional review (supported by a portfolio).

CAREER PROGRESSION On successful completion of this apprenticeship, apprentices can progress to the Level 3 Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship or progress into full-time employment.

14

M OTO R VEHICLE SERVICE M A I N TENANCE T EC HNICIAN - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 39 MONTHS This apprenticeship is ideal for those apprentices who have just completed Level 2 and would like to now further their knowledge and skill set within the motor vehicle industry. Employers are looking for highly motivated, highly skilled, and fully qualified Motor Technicians. Completing Level 3 gives the apprentice all the requirements to move onto the MOT Inspector role after undertaking a further course. As an advanced apprentice, you will further develop your knowledge and start to enhance your diagnostic skills. As you develop your diagnostic skills and repair knowledge, you will be constantly assessed by your employer and Work-Based Assessor and will keep a logbook that will record all your soft skills, your professional development and behaviour.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Before starting the apprenticeship, you must be employed in the relevant area for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You will have ideally completed a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Motor Vehicle Maintenance or equivalent qualification. Candidates should have four GCSEs at Grade 4/C or higher which should ideally include Mathematics and English or the minimum of Level 1 Functional Skills.

END POINT ASSESSMENT The apprentice must be competent and have covered all the criteria to be deemed ready for End Point Assessment and must achieve passes in all Functional Skills for their level qualification prior to the End Point Assessment. The End Point Assessment components include a structured interview and practical and theory tests.

CAREER PROGRESSION Diagnostic Technician, MOT Inspector or other full-time employment within the industry. Apprentices may also progress to higher-level study.

15

L A B OR ATO RY T ECHNICIAN - LEVEL 3 COURSE LENGTH - 30 MONTHS Our Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship is aimed at those seeking employment as a technician in the science industry or supporting the education sector. There is demand across the country for skilled and qualified technicians and employers need committed, well-trained and enthusiastic workers. The work can be very varied depending on the institution. You will be working in an area where working safely and ethically is a high priority as many companies operate under highly regulated conditions.

Laboratory Technicians are expected to work both independently and as part of a wider team. Apprentices will work with minimum supervision, and their ability to take responsibility for the quality of their work is crucial. The apprenticeship will develop skills that enables the apprentice to be proactive in problem solving and identifying areas for improving the business.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS To start the apprenticeship you must me employed in a relevant role for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You will be required to have one of the following entry criteria: • An A level in Chemistry and at least grade 5/B in GCSE Mathematics and 4/C in GCSE English.

• MMM in Level 3 BTEC Applied Science (or similar subject) and at least grade 5/B in GCSE Mathematics and 4/C in GCSE English.

• We would consider candidates with MMP in Level 3 BTEC Applied Science (or similar subject) if they also have at least grade 6/B in GCSE Mathematics and 4/C in GCSE

END POINT ASSESSMENT For the End Point Assessment there are three parts: • Knowledge Test (KT) • Observation with Questioning (OwQ) • Structured Interview (SI)

CAREER PROGRESSION Ideally, once you have completed your apprenticeship you will have a job with your employer. From the Level 3 Laboratory Technician Advanced Apprenticeship, apprentices can then progress onto higher-level relevant apprenticeships.

16

17

SC I E N CE MANU FACTURING TECHNICIA N -LE V E L 3 COURSE LENGTH - 30 MONTHS The Level 3 Science Manufacturing Apprenticeship is aimed at those seeking employment in the science industry as a manufacturing technician. As a Science Manufacturing Technician, you will operate the systems and equipment involved in the production of materials. Many companies operate under highly regulated conditions and the right attitude is needed to maintain high safety requirements. They may work in varied conditions including wearing specialist safety equipment, shift work and on sites running 365-day operations. They are proactive in finding solutions to problems and identifying areas for improving their work environment. Science Manufacturing Technicians are expected to work both individually and as part of a manufacturing team. They can work with minimum supervision, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week. You will be required to have one of the following entry criteria: • An A level in Chemistry and at least grade 5/B in GCSE Mathematics and 4/C in GCSE English.

• MMM in Level 3 BTEC Applied Science (or similar subject) and at least grade 5/B in GCSE Mathematics and 4/C in GCSE English.

• We would consider candidates with MMP in Level 3 BTEC Applied Science (or similar subject) if they also have at least grade 6/B in GCSE Mathematics and 4/C in GCSE English.

END POINT ASSESSMENT For the End Point Assessment there are four parts: Behaviour Evaluation Log (BEL). The Synoptic Assessment, The Vocational Competence Discussion (VCD) and The Scenario Case Study (SCS).

CAREER PROGRESSION Ideally, once you have completed your apprenticeship you will have a job with your employer. From there, you can also look at higher-level apprenticeships in the engineering field such as the Science Industry Process/Plant Engineer Apprenticeship.

18

OUR A PPRENT ICES ADVANCED APPRENTICESHIP IN ENGINEERING Apprentice Calum Finn was Highly Commended in the regional final of the North, East Yorkshire & Humberside National Apprenticeship Awards in 2017.

Calum has been recognised for making a real difference to his organisations and his own career.

Choosing an apprenticeship with Nestlé was a fantastic decision for me, gaining extremely valuable skills both academically and from the workplace. As a result I have achieved double distinction* in Level 3 Extended Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering, which I am thrilled to have accomplished; as a result I have now been offered the opportunity from Nestlé York to progress onto study an HNC in Process Engineering which I think is a brilliant way to continue my career development.

Callum Finn Apprentice at Nestlé, studying an Advanced Apprenticeship in Engineering 19

O U R A PPRENT ICES CHANTELLE LAWRENCE PROGRESSED FROM LEVEL 2 TO LEVEL 3 AT YORK COLLEGE AND PROGRESSED TO STUDY AN LABORATORY TECHNICIAN APPRENTICESHIP AT THE NATIONAL STEM LEARNING CENTRE.

Chantelle was inspired and fascinated by science at school, but did not think she could pursue a career in the subject. She says: “My target grade for GCSE double award science was CC, and I was under the impression I would have to go on to university and get a degree to follow this path, I wasn’t aware of the role of a lab technician in education or industry.”

On leaving Huntington School with 10 GCSE’s, Chantelle went straight into catering. Aged 18, she applied for a job at the National Stem Learning Centre working as a member of the catering team.

After six years she wanted a career change but was unsure of what she wanted to do. Chantelle only knew she wanted a ‘hands on’ job role. National STEM Centre Lab Manager, Helen Rose, suggested she joined her team a couple of hours a week, to gain some experience and find out what the role of a Lab Technician involved.

Chantelle’s main duties are preparing and clearing away equipment for learning activities, The activities can focus on; Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Computing, D&T, Textiles, Food Technology and Engineering. She also provides technical support for all of these subjects through a range of key stages, from early years, all the way through to A Level.

Her important daily tasks involve cleaning and maintaining lab equipment, along with caring for the animals (fish, brine shrimps, moths and woodlice).

Chantelle admits to being apprehensive about starting an apprenticeship at the age of 26: She says: “I soon realised my age really didn’t matter as my classmates doing the same apprenticeship have similar job roles, and there is also a huge overlap of interests within the group. My attendance at York College enables me to share ideas, alternative procedures and equipment with other technicians and tutors, and I gain subject knowledge which is crucial for my ability to do the job. I really enjoy practical sessions at College, learning the science behind the experiments. I am able to go back to work and set up an experiment with an understanding of how the equipment will be used during the learning activity, and what the result is supposed to show.”

Helen Rose, Laboratory Manager at the National STEM Learning Centre says the STEM Learning Centre receives huge benefits by employing apprentices: “The business is able to train and maintain a talent pipeline for hard to fill roles. Not only do our apprentices receive excellent on the job and college training but our wider staff get the opportunity to progress their own skills in mentoring, coaching and supervision. In addition, we learn from our apprentices by harnessing their creativity and thirst for knowledge. There are as many benefits for STEM Learning, as there is for the apprentice.

20

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.

21

H OW TO W RIT E AN APPRENTICESHIP A PPL 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 the 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

22

H OW 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

23

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.

24

OTHE R O PPO RT UNITIES 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 PH I C DE S I GN C O N STRUCTION | TEAC HE R T R A I NI NG | MA R KE T I N G COUNSELLING | M A NAGE ME NT & LE A DE R S H I P QUA LITY ASSURANC E | HE 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 F O R S C R E E N & S TAGE ENGINEERING | GA ME DE VE LO PME NT

AD 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 the InfoZone - 01904 770770 or email info@yorkcollege.ac.uk 25

NOT E S

26

NOTE S

27

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