Skillseekers
Skillseekers is a vocational training programme for young people who want to develop skills and equip themselves for the world of work. It’s open to people who have left school and have a job or who are looking for work. However, the Scottish Government indicated in the recent ‘Skills for Scotland’ Strategy that the Skillseekers programme would be phased out in Scotland as the MA programme is extended to S/NVQ Level 2 (SCQF 5).
For the year ended 31 March 2007, 69 per cent of those participating on the Skillseekers programme achieved Level 2 qualification.
Skillseekers - Stuart Chapman case study (PDF, 152kb)- Skillseekers - Paula Burns case study (PDF, 142kb)
- Skillseekers - Scott Ramsey case study (PDF, 177kb)
Who can take part?
Young people between the ages of 16 and 19 can take part in Skillseekers. The only exception is students who are still at school or who are in further or higher education.
What does it offer?
Skillseekers helps you train to nationally-recognised standards. The cost of your training will be covered. More details on qualifications and other questions are listed below.
Or take a look at the Scottish Training Directory to see the types of course on offer.
How do I get involved?
If you'd like more information, contact your nearest Careers Scotland Centre. There are 100 around Scotland. To find the nearest one, just call 0845 8 502 502. Alternatively, employers can also speak to SDS or their local Business Gateway outlet for information on training and staff development on 0845 609 6611.
Anything else?
Most Skillseekers are in work, but don't worry if you don't have a job. If you are between 16 and 19 you can still use Skillseekers to train for a job through work experience. This is called a work placement. Your local Careers Scotland Centre can help you find a work placement. Staff can also put you in touch with a training company who will arrange a placement with a suitable employer and organise your training.
Questions asked by trainees
Which qualification will I be working towards?
In most cases, a Vocational Qualification - either Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ) or a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). VQs are a measure of the skills and knowledge you have developed in doing the job itself. They are assessed practically and not based on your ability to pass exams. VQs are recognised and accepted by industry throughout the country.
Which level will I choose?
The level of VQ depends on the type of job you are doing. Different jobs require different level of skill and therefore training. More complicated jobs need higher levels of skill of the people doing them. Typically, Skillseekers are learning skills at Level II, the equivalent of five standard grades.
A rough guide is:
- Level I - foundation or unskilled work
- Level II - semi-skilled / a broad range of skills and responsibilities
- Level III - complex / technical / skilled and / or supervisory work
- Level IV - managerial / specialist
- Level V - professional / senior managerial.
Is there a qualification for every job?
Just about. There is a wide range of opportunities available through Skillseekers, including some you might never have thought about. Ask your guidance teacher or careers adviser for copies of case-studies featuring Skillseekers working in your area. Another route from Skillseekers is a Modern Apprenticeship.
Find out more on Modern Apprenticeships.
How do VQs work?
You will work through units or modules until you achieve the level of experience and knowledge required for the job you are doing. You will be assessed on your ability to do the job either at the college or training centre or in your workplace.
Will I get a certificate?
Yes. There are various awarding bodies who issue certificates such as SQA, City and Guilds, Royal Society of the Arts (RSA). If you complete a Modern Apprenticeship, you will also receive a certificate to show you are qualified in your particular industry. VQs might also help you gain a full-time college place as an alternative to academic entry qualifications.
Skillseekers sounds complicated - who will organise the training?
Your employer, though probably with the help of a training company or college. They will agree your training plan with you which will give details of the VQ you are working towards. This will tell you how you will train, including what time will be spent in the workplace and college or training centre. Your training plan will also tell you how long your training will last. This is around two years - more if you are training to higher VQ levels - but the plan is flexible and can be changed as you progress.
Can I use Skillseekers with any employer?
Yes, but only if your employer is willing to train you to at least VQ Level II. If you cannot find the type of job you want in your area, it may be possible to look for one further afield.
Contact your local Careers Scotland Centre for more information.
What if I change my job?
If you are enjoying your training but want or have to change your job, it should be possible to start again.
What if I am not happy with my training?
First speak to your supervisor or employer. You can also tell the training company which is organising your training.
How much will I get paid?
If you are using Skillseekers to train in a job, you will get a wage or a training allowance.
What if I don't find a job?
Don't worry, if you are between 16 and 19 you can still use Skillseekers to train for a job through work experience. This is called a work placement. Your local careers office will help you find a work placement. Staff can also put you in touch with a training company who will arrange a placement with a suitable employer and organise your training.