AS young people await their GCSE results, Hampshire County Council is supporting anyone who would like to continue their learning journey in the work environment via traineeships.

One of the options, called First Traineeship, offers opportunities for people who fail to achieve a grade D or better in their maths and English GCSEs.

Peter Edgar, the council’s executive member for education, said: “We know from experience training in the workplace is a positive option that leads many people into successful, fulfilling careers.

“We are committed to providing all the opportunities we can to support Hampshire’s young people to find work, and continue their learning journey in a way that is practical and enjoyable for them, such as traineeships, apprenticeships and work experience placements.

“No matter what a young person’s GCSE grades are, a traineeship could provide the inspiration, motivation and skills they need to achieve their ambitions.”

Hampshire County Council offers two traineeships.

First traineeship is for 16 to 19 year olds (or individuals up to 24 years old with an educational health and care plan), who have a grade E or below in maths and English GCSE. It includes work experience, volunteering, support to develop the maths and English skills that are crucial to the workplace, and help with employability skills such as CV writing and presenting well in an interview.

Traineeship Plus is for 16 to 24 year olds who gain grade D or above in maths and English GCSE. It includes a high-quality work placement for 20 weeks and support with employability skills and preparation for work.

To be eligible for either of the traineeships, young people need to be committed and enthusiastic about learning and working.

Both traineeships lead to a nationally-recognised employability qualification, supported by Reed Employment Agency. Bursary payments are available for participants in both traineeships, which are calculated according to individual circumstances.

The types of work placements usually available include business administration, health and social care, construction, and other industry sectors such as highways, countryside and catering.

Applications for the current round of both traineeships will close on Monday, August 29, and the two courses begin on September 12.

To apply, email [email protected] or call (01962) 846193.