Tuesday, 6^th November 2007

 

Students Launch Vocational Education Campaign -

and get their ‘Hands On’ work-related qualifications,

skills and careers

 

 

Leanne Kilby, aged 16, Balby Carr Community Sports College, Doncaster, Media Studies

I am enjoying my media studies course because it on hands-on and there are no exams. We study different types of media like films, newspapers and photography and I like the variety. After my two years of studying, I would like to go to University.

 

 

Rachel Grundy, aged 16, Balby Carr Community Sports College, Doncaster, Media Studies

I enjoy Media Studies because it's hands on and you get to use professional equipment and software. At the end of each unit we have a finished product such as a podcast to show for our efforts. I would like to use my vocational qualification to go on to university after my course.” 

 

 

 

 

 

As Year 9 and Year 11 students across the country start considering what courses to study next academic year or what careers-path to take, 10 students studying for vocational qualifications from Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster gathered today to launch a campaign to encourage their peers to get their ‘Hands On’ work-related qualifications. 

Wearing the uniforms of their prospective industries - including chef whites, hard hats and clinical overcoats – the 10 students attended the Routes 16 Careers and Opportunities Fair to represent the 10,000 students aged 14–19 years-old who study work-related courses across South Yorkshire. 

The ‘Hands On’ campaign has been developed by the four local authorities in South Yorkshire and Objective 1 as a response to the demands from Government, employers and universities that students be equipped with the knowledge, understanding and skills that prepare them for the world of work.  

From today, a heavy weight advertising campaign is running on billboards, bus interiors, phone kiosks, bus and tram stops and local newspapers across the region. The ‘Hands On’ campaign highlights vocational qualifications in the industries providing the greatest employment potential for young people in South Yorkshire. These include Engineering and Manufacturing, Creative and Digital Media, Retail, and Catering and Hospitality*.

Vocational qualifications are designed with the help of employers – of all  shapes and sizes and across a variety of sectors – so young people are able to hit the ground running in their chosen career. 

David Kay from Sero Consulting a South Yorkshire employer in the creative and digital sector says, "Young people who are equipped with vocational qualifications in IT and digital media are desirable to many employers who are now relying on computers, networks and websites in their everyday business. In my experience, these students have vital employability skills, including an understanding of business, practical skills and work-based knowledge.”

Not only does a vocational route provide an excellent work-related grounding, it also gives young people vital employability skills such as team working, communication and organisational skills that are recognised by further education providers and universities.

Lisa Firth Head of Admissions at Sheffield Hallam University agrees, “Sheffield Hallam University welcomes and values students who approach Higher Education through vocational education routes. Students who have gained these qualifications are able to demonstrate practical skills and a work-based understanding of their chosen industry which is extremely valuable as they embark on the next stage of their academic education".

The courses are flexible too.  Many of South Yorkshire’s students can study a variety of qualifications at school, college or through an external training provider.  Students with a particular interest may be encouraged to study vocational qualifications alongside traditional qualifications like GCSEs in English, Maths, ICT and the sciences, so they have a mix of skills relevant to their motivations and aptitudes as well as to universities and tomorrow’s global marketplace.

Rachel Grundy, aged 16, from Balby Carr Community Sports College, Doncaster is studying Media Studies, she says: “I enjoy Media Studies because it's hands on and you get to use professional equipment and software. At the end of each unit we have a finished product such as a podcast to show for our efforts. I would like to use my vocational qualification to go on to university after my course.” 

Mayor Martin Winter, Doncaster Council, says, "Today's Doncaster offers our young people fantastic opportunities whether it is in the world of work, further education or training. Our schools and flagship approaches such as the Apprenticeship scheme are inspiring youngsters to achieve their own individual success. With the support of schools, colleges, parents, teachers and support staff, we will continue to invest in the potential and spirit of all our young people."

For more information about vocational education and where the jobs are in South Yorkshire, including testimonials from students currently getting their ‘Hands On’ work-related skills, careers and qualifications in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield, visit www.voced.co.uk