People 1st – Skills for Life and Work

Are you a school leaver with big dreams and a passion to succeed? Are you wondering what to do after getting your results and thinking about your next step…then take it with confidence at People 1st and our school leavers vocational training courses across Northern Ireland. 

We have a school leavers vocational training course called ‘Skills for Life and Work’

This training course takes place at our 6 learning centres across Northern Ireland and is specifically created for school leavers to allow you to earn while you learn. You get paid to study with People 1st and get an NVQ Qualification and real practical experience to help set you up for the world of work. Making that jump from school to a full-time job can be too much sometimes, so this course allows you to get some work experience while getting trained by our talented team of tutors at the same time. 

We believe that success is built on a strong foundation of support, guidance, and encouragement. Our dedicated team is the heartbeat of People 1st and we have been training school leavers for over 25 years, and we want to help shape your journey towards a brighter future.

Make the right choice and chose People 1st for School Leavers Vocational Training Courses across Northern Ireland
Future change start freedom journey

How coming to People 1st to do a school leavers vocational training course, is a great move!

We like to think that we offer a fantastic environment for post-GCSE school leavers vocational training courses across Northern Ireland and we stand out from the crowd because of the following things:

1. A Caring Approach:

Our team members are more than educators – they’re mentors, motivators, and champions of your growth. From day one, you’ll experience their genuine care for your success, ensuring that you feel valued, heard, and supported throughout your learning journey.

2. Expertise that Matters:

The People 1st team is a pool of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. Their expertise spans various vocational areas, allowing them to provide you with insights and guidance that go beyond the textbooks.

3. Personalised Attention:

With smaller class sizes, you’re not just a face in the crowd at People 1st. Our staff-to-student ratio ensures that you receive personalised attention, enabling you to thrive academically and personally. Classes are practical and interactive and there is help readily available whenever you need it.

4. Career Coaching:

Navigating your educational journey can sometimes be overwhelming, especially when it comes to making career decisions. Our career coaches are here to help you explore your options, set goals, and align your choices with your aspirations. They’re dedicated to guiding you towards a path that’s best suited for your unique strengths and interests.

5. Building Confidence:

We understand that confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our staff is committed to nurturing your self-assurance, not just in your chosen field but in your overall growth as an individual. Through practical experience, mentorship, and positive reinforcement, you’ll find your confidence soaring to new heights.

6. A Supportive Community:

The camaraderie at People 1st extends beyond the classroom. Our Student Support Staff foster a warm and inclusive environment where you’re encouraged to collaborate, share ideas, and build connections with your peers. This sense of community enriches your learning experience and prepares you for the real-world workplace dynamics.

7. Going the Extra Mile:

From providing extra resources to offering one-on-one help, our staff members go above and beyond to ensure your success. Their dedication is evident in their commitment to your growth, both academically and personally.

At People 1st, we’re more than just a further education – we’re a family that’s dedicated to helping you achieve your dreams. Our ensure that you’re not just gaining knowledge; you’re building a strong foundation for a thriving future. Ready to experience the difference that a supportive team can make in your educational journey? Join us at People 1st and let us be your partners in success and get started on our school leavers vocational training courses across Northern Ireland.

We offer up to 15 subjects to chose from on our School Leavers Vocational Training Courses across Northern Ireland with People 1st. Get onto the right path today.
Confused? Start your journey off on the right path with People 1st.

Here’s why choosing People 1st can set you up for a bright future:

Earn While You Learn: Say goodbye to traditional education costs. We pay YOU £40 a week to learn with us! No need to worry about fees – just focus on building your skills.

Hands-On Training: Our small class sizes ensure you receive personalised attention and hands-on training. Get practical experience and gain confidence in your chosen field.

Explore 15 Vocational Areas: Whether you’re drawn to Beauty, Catering, IT, Hairdressing, Barbering, Joinery, Bricklaying, Childcare or any of our other subjects, we have something for everyone. Find your passion and unlock your potential.

Guidance Every Step of the Way: Unsure of your path? Our dedicated career coaches will help you navigate your options and choose the right course for YOU.

No Prior Qualifications Needed: Don’t have GCSE passes? No problem! We’re here to help you succeed, no matter your starting point.

NUS Student Card: Enjoy student discounts and benefits with your NUS student card, exclusively for People 1st learners.

Find out more general inforamation aboutschool leavers vocational training courses across Northern Ireland here on the NI Direct website: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/skills-life-and-work

We are dedicated to helping you turn your aspirations into reality and our branch in the Dairy Farm Centre is open over the coming days and weeks, so please drop in anytime for a chat to our Student Support Officers in your local office 👉🏼 find their details here: https://people-1st.co.uk/locations/

Ready to take charge of your future? Apply NOW on https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/skills-for-life-and-work-2/ or scan the QR code on our advert and secure your spot for our September intake

Your journey to success starts with People 1st. Let’s make it happen together! 🚀

Would you like to find out more about A-levels versus Vocational Training : then read on to unlock your personal pathway to success.

As you stand at the crossroads of your educational journey, the choice between vocational training and A-levels or maybe Uni after that might seem like a daunting decision. Fear not, for we are here to shed light on the advantages of vocational training and how it can be a powerful alternative to the traditional academic route.

tA-Levels versus Vocational Training... trainers standing at a crossroad before deciding what to do with your path after GCSEs are over
big choices lie ahead after you finish school

What should you choose- A-Levels versus Vocational Training?

**1. Tailored Learning Experience:

Vocational training focuses on practical skills directly relevant to your chosen career. Unlike A-level or University programs that often include a mix of general education courses, vocational training hones in on what matters most for your profession. You’ll acquire hands-on expertise that prepares you for the job market from day one.

**2. Faster Entry into the Workforce:

While A-level and University programs can span several years, vocational training is often shorter in duration. This means you can get a head start on your career without spending as much time in the classroom. You’ll be ready to step into your profession sooner, earning while you learn after a few short years.

**3. Earn While You Learn:

Speaking of earning, vocational training often comes with the unique advantage of receiving a training allowance. You’ll gain practical skills, on-the-job experience, and financial empowerment all at once – a win-win scenario that can make a big difference in the long run.

**4. Real-World Experience:

Vocational training immerses you in real-world scenarios that mimic your future job environment. This practical exposure not only builds confidence but also equips you with insights and skills that resonate with employers.

**5. Less Student Debt:

The financial burden of university fees and student loans can be overwhelming. Vocational training is typically more affordable, and in some cases, you might even get paid to learn- like with People 1st where you earn £40 a week on our school leavers courses. Start your career on the right foot without the weight of student debt holding you back.

**6. Industry Connections:

Through vocational training, you’ll have opportunities to network and connect with industry professionals. These connections can provide insights, mentorship, and potential job leads, giving you a head start in your career.

**7. Career-Focused Curriculum:

Vocational training programs are designed with your future career in mind. The curriculum is laser-focused on developing the skills demanded by employers, ensuring you’re well-prepared to excel in your chosen field.

**8. High Demand for Practical Skills:

Many industries prioritise practical skills and experience over academic qualifications. Vocational training directly addresses these demands, making you a more attractive candidate in competitive job markets.

**9. Pathway to Further Education:

Should you decide to pursue higher education later, vocational training can serve as a strong foundation. Your practical skills and experience can provide you with a unique perspective and enhance your academic pursuits.

Take the first step text in choosing A-levels versus vocational training and move forward with your future today!
We can help you decide what to do next, and talk you over our range of courses

Ultimately, the choice between vocational training and A-Levels then University depends on your aspirations and career goals. Both paths have their merits, but vocational training offers a dynamic and pragmatic approach that’s proving to be a game-changer for countless individuals.

At People 1st, we’re dedicated to helping you unlock your potential through vocational training. Explore our diverse range of vocational areas through an Apprenticeship or via our post-GCSE school-leavers course ‘Skills for Life and Work’ and embark on a journey that aligns with your dreams and aspirations. Our team in your nearest branch will be happy to chat to you about all the options and help you find a path that suits YOU best!!!
👉🏼 Find your nearest People 1st branch here:
https://people-1st.co.uk/locations/

👉🏼Learn more about an Apprenticeship here:

https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/apprenticeships-ni/

👉🏼Find out more about our post-GCSE school leavers course here:
https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/skills-for-life-and-work-2/

You can also find further information about vocational training on the NI Direct website:

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/vocational-qualifications

#VocationalTraining #ChooseYourPath #CareerSuccess #YourFutureAwaits

Whether you choose A Levels versus Vocational Training..there are options out there for all students and we are here to help!
Call in to see the team in your nearest branch, we are ready to help!!

If you are interested in working part time for People 1st, then please read on as we have a fantastic opportunity to join our Joinery team in Dundrod, at our People 1st Construction Training Academy.

At People 1st we have a large team of ‘associate’ tutors. Being an associate tutor offers more flexibility to those who are looking for part-time work to suit personal and professional circumstances, while still earning an attractive hourly rate. At People 1st we are focused on developing our team and support our associate tutors with the opportunity to progress and engage in Continuous Professional Development.

The most important thing for me that as a People 1st associate, you are still part of a team where you have excellent support and guidance when needed and are included in the company’s wide range of CPD provision and progression opportunities.  I started as an associate tutor and am now IQA and Curriculum lead for CCLD.  You also have flexibility with working, gain the benefits that come with being self-employed and also job satisfaction with teaching and achievements of learners.” Jennifer Boyle, CCLD IQA and Curriculum Lead

ASSOCIATE JOINERY TUTOR/ ASSESSOR:

Are you an experienced joiner and ready for a change? Do you like explaining to others how to do things? Then how about working in a teaching role with People 1st? We have a custom-built Construction Training Academy at the C.I.T.B training grounds in Dundrod, and we need a Joinery NVQ Assessor to join the team!

  • Location: CITB Dundrod, People 1st Construction Training Academy
  • Responsible to: Centre Manager
  • Hourly Rate: £20-25
  • Hours currently available: 12 hours
  • WORKING HOURS: Full day =6 hours
  • Job closing date: 12 noon, Friday 2nd Dec 2022

It is at this training facility where our young people learn the skills needed for the carpentry industry, and you will be an essential part of their learning journey. Aged 16-24, the People 1st learners are studying for their Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ Assessments in Site Carpentry on our Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Part of your role will be carrying out initial and diagnostic assessments which will help inform group learning plans and allow accurate tracking of each participants progression towards the required target level for each NVQ.

We are also looking for someone who is an active participant in the company’s quality improvement processes, open to self-evaluation and proficient in paperwork and organisation as you will be tasked with administrating all the necessary Department for Economy forms as well as other appropriate documentation, compliant with departmental guidelines.

Personal Specification
Essential

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in site Carpentry
  • Site experience attained across first fixing, second fixing and roofing
  • GCSE grade ‘C’ or equivalent in Math and English. 
  • Either hold, be working towards or happy to work towards a recognised teaching qualification, i.e., PGCE, B Ed, Certificate in Teaching (UUJ), or Diploma in Teaching and Management of Essential Skills.
  • A current driving licence and access to a car.
  • An effective communicator, sympathetic and understanding to the needs of young people.  
  • A high degree of commitment, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to develop and promote ideas effectively.  

Desirable

  • Experience in the delivery of accredited programmes
  • Assessor award (Can be obtained in house)

Behaviours/Capabilities

  • Positive, enthusiastic approach to problem solving with a “can do” attitude
  • Confident and professional approach
  • Organised and efficient methods of working
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload and adapt rapidly to changing priorities
  • Systematic approach to data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the personal and occupational success of the long 
          term unemployed
  • Creative and innovative approach to problem solving

To apply please send a copy of your cv to our Jacqueline Mc Stravick in our rectruitment team on [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 2nd December, 2022. 
Best of luck to all applying!

If you are interested in working part time for People 1st, then please read on as we have a fantastic opportunity to join our Barbering team in Belfast.

At People 1st we have a large team of ‘associate’ tutors. Being an associate tutor offers more flexibility to those who are looking for part-time work to suit personal and professional circumstances, while still earning an attractive hourly rate. At People 1st we are focused on developing our team and support our associate tutors with the opportunity to progress and engage in Continuous Professional Development.

The most important thing for me that as a People 1st associate, you are still part of a team where you have excellent support and guidance when needed and are included in the company’s wide range of CPD provision and progression opportunities.  I started as an associate tutor and am now IQA and Curriculum lead for CCLD.  You also have flexibility with working, gain the benefits that come with being self-employed and also job satisfaction with teaching and achievements of learners.” 

Jennifer Boyle, CCLD IQA and Curriculum Lead

ASSOCIATE BARBERING TUTOR/ ASSESSOR:

Are you an experienced barber and ready for a change? Do you like explaining to others how to do things? Then how about working in a teaching role with People 1st? We have a fully operational teaching salon environment in the Hairdressing and Barbering Training Academy at our Ormeau Road branch, and we need a Barbering NVQ Assessor to join the team!

  • Location: Ormeau Road, People 1st Hairdressing and Barbering Training Academy
  • Responsible to: Centre Manager
  • Hourly Rate: £20-25
  • Hours currently available: between 6 and 12 hours, Mondays to Wednesdays ( can be flexible)
  • WORKING HOURS: Full day =6 hours
  • Job closing date: 12 noon, Friday 2nd Dec 2022
  • How to apply? Email your CV to Jacqueline McStravick on [email protected]

It is at this training facility where our young people learn the skills needed for the barbering industry, and you will be an essential part of their learning journey. Aged 16-24, the People 1st learners are studying for their Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ Assessments in Barbering on our Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Part of your role will be carrying out initial and diagnostic assessments which will help inform group learning plans and allow accurate tracking of each participants progression towards the required target level for each NVQ.

We are also looking for someone who is an active participant in the company’s quality improvement processes, open to self-evaluation and proficient in paperwork and organisation as you will be tasked with administrating all the necessary Department for Economy forms as well as other appropriate documentation, compliant with departmental guidelines.

Personal Specification:

Essential

  • A minimum of Level 3 qualification in subject area plus minimum of 2 years salon experience
  • Assessor award 
  • GCSE grade ‘C’ or equivalent in Math and English. 
  • Hold, be working towards, or happy to work towards a recognised teaching qualification, i.e., PGCE, B Ed, Certificate in Teaching (UUJ), or Diploma in Teaching and Management of Essential Skills.
  • A current driving licence and access to a car.  
  • An effective communicator, sympathetic and understanding to the needs of young people.  
  • A high degree of commitment, excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and promote ideas effectively.  

Desirable

  • Qualification and experience in hairdressing.  
  • Experience in the delivery of accredited programmes

Behaviours/Capabilities:

  • Positive, enthusiastic approach to problem solving with a “can do” attitude
  • Confident and professional approach
  • Organised and efficient methods of working
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload and adapt rapidly to changing priorities
  • Systematic approach to data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the personal and occupational success of the long 
          term unemployed
  • Creative and innovative approach to problem solving

To apply please send a copy of your cv to our Jacqueline Mc Stravick in our rectruitment team on [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 2nd December, 2022.
Best of luck to all applying!

For over 25 years we have been training school leavers on the main government youth training programme, which is currently known as Skills for Life and Work. This programme provides 16 and 17 year olds, with some amazing life skills and training in a vocational area of their choice. They can chose from over 15 different subject areas to study so there is something for everyone, from Business to IT, Hair to Beauty, Catering to Retail, Joinery to Plumbing and much more – plus all classes are small, friendly groups, taught by kind and supportive tutors.

We have invested a lot over the last few years to create amazing facilities in-house for the students- we offer fully operational hair salons, barber salons, beauty academy, catering kitchen and construction academy for the more practical and hands on side of the course- the students spend a minimum of one day a week learning the practical skills of their chosen area and can also avail of time spent each week in a work placement too, once they are ready!!

We know too well that the jump from leaving school to the workplace can be a tough move and many are nervous about this, but we find they transition very well to People 1st this course gives students the skills to adapt – they learn so may new things, gain confidence, new friends and really just enjoy learning in a structured but relaxed environment. If they need support with essential skills of English, Maths and ICT we can also help with that!

We have 6 branches that offer the Skills for Life and Work school leavers training programme- Belfast South, Belfast West, Lisburn, Lurgan, Portadown and Newry. Enrolment is currently open for all courses and will run throughout the summer so if you would like to talk to a friendly face in your local branch then please contact the following team members, who are always happy to chat you through the options:

Belfast South- Conor on 07714433072 or [email protected]

Belfast West- Padraig on 9030 3986 or [email protected]

Lisburn- Tomás on 07856422489 or [email protected]

Lurgan- Sarah on 07999023125 or [email protected]

Portadown- Ciaran on 3886 8423 or [email protected]

Newry – Jason on 07999024913 or [email protected]

Apply online and find out more information here: https://bit.ly/3agfqOT