Information » Employment & Training
After Year 11 you have to make some decisions about your future: do you want to stay in school, go to college or get a job. Starting training or finding a job can seem like a daunting task, leaving your classmates and friends and the routines you have been used to for years. However there is lots of advice and help available to support you in making the right decision.
If you’re keen to start work straight away, you might be tempted to take a job where training isn’t provided but this might not be the best option as training and qualifications help you move up the career ladder. Before you accept a job, find out what training they will offer you, including any qualifications you can study for and how you can progress in the company.
Make sure that you will be paid at least the National Minimum Wage (NEW) for your age group, this is an hourly rate of pay that you will be entitled to by law in the UK. It is reviewed every year, so check what the current rate is.
There are also ways you can learn and train as you work and if you are aged 16 or 17 and employed but don’t have many qualifications you now have the right to paid time off work to study or train.
For advice and tips on employment and training click on the various articles in this section or on the links to other websites to find out more.
Organisations
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TheSite.org - Study information & Tips
Study information from TheSite.org
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DirectGov - Employment
Public services all in one place
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Starting Work - Citizens Advice
The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice, and by influencing policymakers.
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TheSite - Discrimination at Work
If you feel you're being treated unfairly at work, there may be a law to protect you. Read on to find out about your rights, and what you can do about discrimination in the workplace.
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TheSite - Workers Rights
Your guide to the real world. Information about your rights in work.
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Direct Gov - Understanding your work status
Information about your work status
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Direct Gov - Benefits for Young People
If you're 16 or over you may be able to claim certain benefits or tax credits (government payments) if you're on a low income, looking for work, disabled or caring for a child or older person.
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TheSite - Benefits and Tax Advice
Information for young people around benefits and tax advice
