Chesterfield College: Lockdown period is a chance to focus on the future

If school leavers, or anyone who wants to retrain or further their studies, feels like the uncertainties of the current situation are making it difficult to make plans for shaping their future career or study plans, I want to offer some reassurances.

My message is that their future is safe and that there is plenty of support out there to make sure they can make the right choice.

At Chesterfield College we are still teaching, still supporting students and apprentices, still processing applications and making plans to help everyone return back to classroom and work-based learning as soon as we can.

Our promise to existing and future students is that there’s a place for you now and in the new academic year.

Taking some practical steps now to secure plans for September will help to make sure that transition into life after lockdown will be more positive.

Not only that, it will help with mental wellbeing if you have a firm plan for the future in place.

Tutors and teachers can help you explore your options and there is plenty of independent advice out there too.

You can also visit the virtual open days of colleges and training providers to see what courses and options they can offer you.

For example, Chesterfield College’s virtual open day takes place on June 3 from 4pm to 6pm.

You could use the National Careers Service website or the college’s online careers coach tool to help you explore your options and find out about the local job market.

You could also use the time you have to think about what you love to do and explore if those skills could be applied to a job in the future.

My final piece of advice is; don’t wait until you know your exam results or lockdown is over.

The earlier you apply for a course or an apprenticeship, the more likely you are to have your first choice.

You’ll also feel great when you know you have a plan in place.

Use the time you have to focus on the future – you’ll be glad you did.

Katie Tarrant is director of career planning and progression at Chesterfield College.