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If you want to chat to somebody to see if a construction apprenticeship will suit you, you can speak to one of the following organisations. There are a lot of options out there, so the more help and advice you get, the more likely it is you'll make a good decision.
If you're between 16 and 24 and have been unemployed for more than six months, you can try a New Deal 'taster' course. On this scheme you can try out a number of different construction occupations. You can then choose the one you liked best and get a placement with an employer for at least 26 weeks. If the employer keeps you on after this you can work towards NVQs.
I've made my mind up and want to get started on a construction apprenticeship
There are two ways to apply for an apprenticeship. You can approach an employer and ask if they are interested in taking on an apprentice. You can also apply through the Learning and Skills Council, who will put you in touch with a training provider who will then try to match you with an employer.
Looking for an employer
If you decide you're going to look for an employer who wants an apprentice, you can do this a number of ways:
Finding an apprenticeship first
You can apply directly to a training agency, such as the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board). To apply for CITB's training programme you can submit a written application or apply online via the CITB website (www.bconstructive.co.uk/apprenticeships/englandwales.asp). You can also call the CITB on 01485 577877.
You'll then be assessed and interviewed by CITB. If you're successful they'll then put you in touch with employers in your area who have apprenticeship vacancies. You'll attend another interview with the employer and if all goes well you'll be up and running.
But the CITB is just one training agency. The Learning and Skills Council runs a helpline where you can find out more info about apprenticeships, vacancies and other training agencies in your area. Call on 08000 150 600. You'll then receive more information about the opportunities in your area.
Interview
The employer, training agency or training provider might call you in for an interview. You should prepare for this like any other job interview and find out as much as possible about the employer and/or training scheme. You should be able to show you've thought about it seriously and are sure it's the right move for you. It will help if you can convince them what you think you can bring to the job.
Further info
Learning and Skills Council
Apprenticeships helpline: 08000 150 600
www.apprenticeships.org.uk/
CITB-ConstructionSkills
Tel: 0808 100 0055
www.bconstructive.co.uk
Construction Apprenticeship Scheme Helpline
Tel: 01485 577877
SummitSkills
Tel: 0191 490 3306
www.summitskills.org.uk
Skillseekers and Modern Apprenticeships in Scotland
www.scottish-enterprise.com/sedotcom_home/stp/careersadvice/develop-your-skills-work-based-training-2/modernapprenticeships.htm
Modern Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland - contact your Jobcentre
www.delni.gov.uk/
National Traineeships and Modern Apprenticeships in Wales
www.elwa.ac.uk/elwaweb/elwa.aspx?pageid=645
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