ST HELENS Chamber has now launched its new Fast Track to Employment Programme.

The programme is designed to give the skills and work experience needed to reach a range of career goals.

Fast Track to Employment will support those wanting to start an Apprenticeship, and those wanting to find employment in other roles.

Lisa Weir, Head of Apprenticeships and Quality, at St Helens Chamber said: “We’re excited to launch this new course, which combines employability training with sector specific qualifications, short training courses and work experience placements to create well-rounded and work-ready candidates.

“Course content varies depending on age, or career goals, but there are plenty of amazing benefits to joining this programme.

“We’d encourage anyone getting their exam results this summer, or just wanting to upskill to reach their career goals, to enrol.”

Alongside general employability support and a choice of short training courses, the programme will also offer sector specific training in Construction, Hairdressing, Business Admin, Childcare, Customer Service, Accountancy and Adult Care.

Over 12 weeks, students on this exciting new programme will: • Develop their employability skills • Get skills and qualifications relevant to their chosen industry • Have access to qualified Careers Advisers for advice and guidance • Access CV and interview support • Complete a work experience placement to add to their CV • Take part in enrichment days • Have priority access to job vacancies and jobs fairs with local employers • Have priority access to Sector Based Work Academies, with guaranteed interviews on completion of the course Lisa continued: “This course provides everything a young person could need to get their career off to a great start. The Chamber works closely with local employers to secure exclusive vacancies including Apprenticeships, and run regular jobs fairs to connect people to local employers.

“Alongside this, our qualified Careers Advisers will be on hand to help with CV writing, interview preparation and applications. All this, mixed with the work experience placement and sector specific qualifications/training – students on this new programme will have the best possible chances of success and standing out to employers.”

Courses are enrolling now – and anyone interested can attend a range of upcoming open days to chat to the team and discuss their options.

Lisa added: “Everyone is welcome to come along to an open day and find out more about the programme – we also have two Careers Fairs running on A Level and GCSE results days with local employers attending, so make sure to come and see us and find out how we can help you start your career!”

To find out more about the Fast Track to Employment Programme and see upcoming open day dates, email info@thestartingpoint.org or visit sthelenschamber.com/startingpoint/fast-track-to-employment/