Connecting teens to work and training

Connexions is an advice and support service helping young people as they prepare to leave school.

Connexions is seeing a rise in the number of young people asking for one-to-one support to help with their CVs, filling out job application forms and practical tips on interview techniques, giving them the best chance of getting a job.

Specially trained Connexions Personal Advisers are on hand to support those who are unsure of their next steps. Connexions has access to short courses run by local training providers where young people can gain work experience and work on their qualifications.

Connexions Personal Adviser Lucy Goodyer said "Connexions knows it is tough for young people but we aim to give them the best start in life, providing them with the support and the opportunities they need to develop their skills to help them succeed. There are opportunities open to young people like an apprenticeship, where they earn money but continue to learn new skills before they move onto the next stage like an Advanced Apprenticeship, skilled employment or higher education."

Connexions Personal Advisers can be found at the following schools and colleges or Connexions centre:

Aylesbury	14-16 Temple Street	0845 217 1366
High Wycombe	Thame House, Castle Street	0845 217 1368
Buckingham	Buckingham Youth Centre, London Road	0845 217 1366
Chesham	Way In Centre, Sills Yard	0845 217 1366

Connexions Personal Advisers offer advice and guidance to all aged 13 to 19 (and up to 25 for young people with learning difficulties or disabilities).

Connexions Personal Advisers are based in high street locations, youth clubs, schools and colleges. They give professional and confidential advice on a range of subjects from careers and education to drugs and alcohol, homelessness, relationships and teenage pregnancy.

More information on Connexions in Buckinghamshire is available from their website.