The wait is over, the exam results are in and now GCSEs are officially behind you. It’s an exciting time, but for many it is also a time of uncertainty, posing the question ‘what do I do next?’
You might think that there isn’t much choice between formal education or an apprenticeship but ACT, Wales’ leading training provider, offers another option.
You might be ready to leave a classroom setting but need some support finding and securing a role that’s right for you – Jobs Growth Wales + (JGW+), a training and development programme for 16- to 19-year-olds, can bridge the gap between school and work.
JGW+ gives learners the skills, qualifications and experience to progress onto an apprenticeship, set up their own business or land their dream role.
And best of all you will earn whilst you learn -students also get paid up to £60 a week on top of a meal allowance of up to £19.50 a week.
JGW+ is split into two strands. ‘Engagement’ is a great starting point for anyone unsure what they want to do in the future, or who needs some support understanding what they could be working towards.
‘Advancement’ is for learners who have a rough idea of what they want to do or have a specific interest or career path in mind. As well as centre-based activities, those on the Advancement strand may take on work placements, projects within the community or voluntary work.
These opportunities will reflect what you’re interested in, and you’ll have the chance to experience a variety of activities that reflect what it’s like to work in specific professional roles.
JGW+ courses include animal care, construction, automotive, health and social care and more, so you’re sure to find the perfect venture to suit you.
Leon Patnett, ACT’s head of youth engagement and training, who oversees JGW+, said: “Whether you got the grades you were hoping for or not, today is an incredible milestone and you should be proud of what you’ve achieved.
“It’s important to remember that you don’t need to have figured it all out at this point – it’s okay to explore different options and to work things out as you go.
“Our Jobs Growth Wales+ programme has been built to develop you based on your education, learning and wellbeing needs.
“Our aim is to develop all learners into healthy, confident individuals and ambitious, capable students.
“We have looked at where the skills shortages and jobs are and designed what we do to ensure that everyone has the best chance of future employment.”
If you would like to learn more about Jobs Growth Wales + you can find further details and courses here.
