02 June 2020
Students, young people, businesses looking to recruit graduates, and Islanders seeking work or changing careers can receive online and virtual support from Skills Jersey.
Skills Jersey’s team of careers advisers, Trackers apprenticeship organisers and the Student Finance team have developed their online presence to assist those in need of their services online and virtually.
Young people aged between 16 and 25 are also being offered support with their employability skills, career options and education. In collaboration with the Jersey Youth Service and Highlands College, Skills Jersey has developed a mixture of live and pre-recorded information videos and tutorials, Q&As, quizzes and interactive online sessions. Content will include links to free online courses through Highlands College, video tutorials on CV building and interview tips, and videos on different careers in industries such as digital, hospitality, finance and construction, with employers outlining the skills they are looking for.
The Assistant Minister for Education, Deputy Jeremy Maçon, said: “It is evident that due to COVID-19 pandemic, young people may find themselves without the range of employment options that would have been available to them in normal circumstances.
“With many university students returning home before the end of term, and limited prospect of summer and short-term employment, many find themselves financially disadvantaged. The virtual support provided through this combined response for 16 to 24 year olds aims to help those considering their options for short or long-term employment, skills development and training needs.”
As well as the virtual service, Islanders can still speak to Skills Jersey advisers by video call appointments or by emailing or telephoning the team. Skills Jersey can also help support businesses with employment or internship opportunities for recent graduates and undergraduates.
Deputy Maçon added: “This is a combined effort to support the employment and career opportunities for Islanders supported by offering skills development where needed. We know that many businesses, employees and individuals at all stages of their career will be facing challenges as to how to prepare for success during these uncertain times.
“Skills Jersey have been working on their virtual services and resources to support both businesses and individuals across the Island, regardless of residency or employment status, to support you with your ideas for education, employment, university or an apprenticeship through tailored information, advice and guidance.”
Skills Jersey operational manager Stuart Penn outlined the Skills Jersey services: “Our careers guidance team are here to help you navigate your next steps while offering free, confidential and impartial careers guidance to people of all ages including school pupils, students and adults. Our team can advise on interview preparation, including mock interviews, as well as offer advice on study options and creating career action plans.
“Our Trackers team supports people aged 16 and over in their chosen apprenticeships as well as offering apprenticeship support for businesses.
“Our Student Finance team are available to help Jersey students looking for financial help for university or college to study for their first undergraduate degree or other recognised higher education course. Students and parents can make appointments for video or telephone calls or email the team with any queries.”
There is information about careers guidance online, as well as resources for exploring careers and preparing a CV. The Trackers team can be contacted by emailing trackers@gov.je, and there is further information online. There is Student Finance information online or the team can be contacted at studentfinance@gov.je. University students can also access online resources with information during Covid-19.
Islanders can arrange a telephone or video appointment with Skills Jersey by completing a booking form. Further information can be requested by emailing skillsjersey@gov.je.
gov.je