There is no right or wrong way to start your career. If you talk to your friends or parents they've probably had lots of different jobs…..and training made it easier for them. You have the opportunity that was not available to them, you can try out different kinds of work before you make your decision.

It's easier now to get into learning and there's a lot more choice about where and how you can learn. Skill Build is one option which will help you develop your skills and confidence.

Increasing your skills will increase the opportunities available to you …. You can progress into other Skill Seeker options like National Traineeship or Modern Apprenticeship, Further Education or Employment.

Who are they for …….

You are eligible for Skill Build if you are aged 16 or 17 or over 25 years and want to gain the skills and qualifications you will need to give your career a good start. Before you decide, talk to the people you trust, like your parents, friends and your local Careers Wales centre… they are all there to help you.

What's in it for me?

Skill Build is all about helping you if you need support with your skills such as reading, writing or dealing with numbers, or if you like to try out a job to see if it's for you. It's also helpful if you're not sure about what job you would really like to do.

Training is available in a range of occupational areas and will depend on your circumstances. There are two options on offer to you on Skill Build: -

Option 1 - Skill Build

Option 2 - Skill Build NVQ 1

Depending on which Skill Build option you decide to take you can get: -

* Help with gaining the skills you need which will boost your confidence and your knowledge about jobs and training opportunities.

* Work placements which give first hand experience of different types of jobs.

* A training allowance at aged 16 to 17 or have a supplemented payment if you added to benefits paid by Department of Works and Pensions

* Training towards a least a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) level 1.

What's involved?

You will need to go to you local Careers Office or Jobcentre Plus and discuss this option further with your advisor. Once you have agreed your needs your advisor will be able to help you contact the people who will get you started on the right road.

Option 1 - Skill Build Preparatory Training

You will normally be provided with a range of support over a number of weeks which is designed to suit your needs.
Preparatory Training can offer you: -

* Work experience with an employer
* Appropriate Training in your chosen occupation
* Job tasters to try the job for yourself
* Practical support if and when you need it
* Helpful advice and guidance from qualified assessors and tutors
* The chance to transfer to NVQ Level 1, National Traineeship or Modern Apprenticeship.

If you prefer to train with an employer then Skill Build may be for you.

Option 2 - NVQ 1 Skill Build

On Skill Build you will receive training on the job with an employer. This can lead to you achieving a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at level 1, plus extra qualifications like Key Skills.

What Routes are Available?

Skill Build is available in a range of different careers. The choice will depend on your needs. We offer the following
NVQ's at level 1: -

* Business Administration
* Customer Service
* Distributive Operations
* Retail Operations
* Using Information Technology