Skillseekers

Take a look at some Skillseekers info to see if this training option is the best for you.

Skillseekers is a training programme for young people who want to develop skills and equip themselves for the world of work. Most young people involved in Skillseekers are in employment, but there are also training places for those having difficulty in finding a job.

You'll work toward a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) - qualifications relevant in the workplace, based on your needs and interests.

Non-Employed Skillseekers

Your training must involve a named employer. Wherever you're based, you'll have the chance to improve your job hunting skills and get extra help with things like going for interviews, letter writing, your written and number skills, as well as confidence building.

Taking part in Skillseekers as a non-employed trainee will increase your chances of getting a job. You will have the opportunity to gain work experience, improve your qualifications, develop new skills and get references.

Non-employed trainees currently get paid £55 a week.

Employed Skillseekers

As an employed Skillseeker you will be paid the usual rate for the job by your employer. Your training could take place at work or elsewhere (e.g. college or a training centre), or it could be a mixture of both.

Who can apply?

Young people between the ages of 16 and 18 can take part in Skillseekers. 

The only exception is students who are still at school or who are in further or higher education. In some cases, people up to the age of 25 can take part in the programme, especially if you are training for a job that needs higher skills.

Training can last up to two years, but this is flexible since it’s all based on your ability and needs, and the type of training you do. You may spend some of the time either at college or in a training company.

All your training and assessment is based on your practical skills and your ability in the workplace.

More Info

For more info speak to your Careers Adviser in school, or call at your local Careers Scotland Centre once you leave school. You can also go to the 'Contact Us' section of the Careers Scotland website to find your nearest centre (there are 70 around Scotland). 

If you have any questions then you can also call the Young Scot InfoLine on 0808 801 0338 (Mon to Fri 12pm - 8pm) - it's FREE from a landline and mobiles!

Last modified: 07/06/2010 17:00:12