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Week 4 – Preparing for an Interview

Getting an apprenticeship with a law firm can seem daunting and so we are sharing some useful tips to help you kick start your legal career. So far we have looked at:

• Week 1: How to identify the right role and register for vacancies.
• Week 2: CVs and covering letters.
• Week 3: Work Experience.

This week we are looking at; preparing for interview.

Before we start though, key points to remember:

• An apprenticeship is not a course; it is a job with training.
• To be an apprentice you need to get a job.
• A specialist legal apprenticeship provider can help, but can never guarantee, to get you a suitable job role.
• Apprenticeships in popular sectors such as law and accountancy are over-subscribed, making competition fierce.
• There is no apprenticeship funding for graduates and so if you are a graduate an apprenticeship is unlikely to be for you.
• Almost all law firms are looking for good GCSEs (at least 5 A* to Cs) and many look for good A levels as well.
• Think about a backup plan if you are not successful. This can make you feel less stressed and actually help you during the application process.

Preparing for an Interview

If you have followed our tips for previous weeks then hopefully you will have been able to secure at least one interview with a law firm. It may be for a clearly defined, advertised job vacancy or a response to your request for some work experience. Either way your preparation will be very similar; treat the following points as a check list and assume that you are not ready until you have covered each of them.

• Carefully analyse the job description (if one is available/provided). This will provide you with key information about the job and will give you clues as to what you may be asked.
• Re-read your CV and covering letter. Ensure you know exactly what you have written and that you can back up what you have said if asked during the interview. Whilst re-reading your CV try think about those things which might set you apart from other candidates as well as any possible areas of weakness.
• Research the firm and, if you know who it is, the interviewer. Ensure you know the basics such as the areas of law that the firm practices, the size and growth of the firm and what the firm sees at its key attributes (this will be on the website). Read any latest news whether on the whether on the website or elsewhere. All of this shows the interviewer that you are committed and well-motivated but also capable of doing thorough research.
• Once you have thoroughly researched and revised these three areas start considering your answers to possible questions. From the job description and research on the firm you should have been able to identify what the most likely questions will be. Let’s look at a few things that that will come up in most interviews:
  • Why you want to work for the firm.
    • A bit of flattery can help: use the research you have done – its reputation, commitment to staff development, the fact that it is growing…
    • You like the areas of work that it specialises in. Be careful with this one: if you say you are interested in, say, commercial litigation, you will be asked why and what you know about it.
    • Be honest – there is nothing wrong with saying that you don’t yet know what type of law will interest you in but that you want to work in a legal environment.
    • Link you answer to the job role: if it is for a legal administrator for example you might be interested in it because you are well organised, like systems and processes and enjoy working as part of a team.
  • Your previous experience.
    • “Relevant experience” doesn’t mean you have done the job before. Think about what you have done that shows:
      • Teamwork: sports teams, being involved in a group project or club.
      • Determination: examples of where you have had to work hard for a sustained period (eg exams) or have kept a part time job going alongside school/college work.
      • Responsibility: managing an event, project or club. Think about any financial responsibility you may have had.
      • Dealing with customers. Part time or voluntary work is good here. Think especially about customers you have dealt with successfully who were very different in age or background and any difficult situations you have dealt with successfully.
  • Where you hope to progress to
    • It’s OK to say you don’t yet know but that, in the medium term, you want to build your experience and successfully achieve your apprenticeship. If you have your heart set on becoming a barrister or a corporate lawyer that’s fine but for the time being the firm will want to see how you get on in a more junior role.
  • Your reliability and determination
    • For reliability you may be able to point to your absence record at school/college or in previous jobs (provided it is true)
    • For determination see comments above. If you have managed to get yourself the interview mention this – it takes determination to research different employers, write letters to them and follow up.
  • Your weak points
    • Everyone has some and so, if asked, don’t say none. If you have got an interview then the employer hasn’t spotted any glaring weaknesses on your CV and so you mustn’t worry if asked this. Think of some weak points that can also be strengths. For example being “a bit of a perfectionist” means that you may take too long sometimes but it isn’t necessarily bad.

By preparing for the interview you are getting ready to put yourself in the best possible light for your future employer. However this doesn’t mean that you should stretch the truth or make something up. An employer will usually speak to your referees and finding out (either before you start work or after) that an employee has not been truthful undermines (often fatally) the relationship of trust between employer and employee.

Don’t forget, if a firm that you contact has any questions about legal apprenticeships by all means put them in touch with Damar – we would be happy to speak to them or let them have further information.

Good luck!

Next week - Interview technique

Week 6 – Becoming an apprentice if you already have a job in the legal sector.

Week 3 – Work Experience

Getting an apprenticeship with a law firm can seem daunting  and so we are sharing some useful tips to help you kick start your legal career. So far we have looked at:

• Week 1: how to identify the right role and register for vacancies.
• Week 2: CVs and covering letters.

This week we are looking at work experience.

Before we start though, key points to remember:

1. An apprenticeship is not a course; it is a job with training.
2. To be an apprentice you need to get a job.
3. A specialist legal apprenticeship provider can help, but can never guarantee, to get you a suitable job role.
4. Apprenticeships in popular sectors such as law and accountancy are over-subscribed, making competition fierce.
5. There is no apprenticeship funding for graduates and so if you are a graduate an apprenticeship is unlikely to be for you.
6. Almost all law firms are looking for good GCSEs (at least 5 A* to Cs) and many look for good A levels as well.
7. Think about a backup plan if you are not successful. This can make you feel less stressed and actually help you during the application process.

Work Experience/shadowing

For most firms, legal apprenticeships are very new. This means that:

• They may not have a vacancy for a legal apprentice… yet!
• They might not know how the programme is structured and tailored to fit the needs of the firm and the apprentice.
• They might not know about the other benefits (eg Government funding and, for some, grants for recruiting apprentices).
• There may be some apprehension about taking on younger employees.

One way to get a firm interested in having an apprentice is for them to see who you are and to give them a sense of the contribution you could make. Unfortunately, for some employers, “work experience” can sound a bit like hard work. However, if you ask a firm if you might be able to come and “shadow” one of their fee-earners for a day or so you might have a better chance of success. This could involve sitting in on meetings with clients, “conferences” with barristers, attending court or simply sitting with the lawyer as they work. As well as giving you a flavour of what working in solicitors’ firm is really like it gives the firm a chance to see what you are like…

So, how to get a day or two’s experience in a law firm…

First, follow the advice that we gave in week 1 about finding law firms – and don’t forget to use any connections you, your family and friends, your school or teachers may have!

Second, follow the advice we gave in week 2 about getting a really good CV together and making sure you have the right contact name at the law firm.

Third, write a really good covering letter to the law firm, using the advice we gave in week 2. In particular:

• If your handwriting is good write it by hand. If it’s not, use a computer.
• Drop the covering letter and your CV off by hand if possible (make sure you are dressed smartly). If it’s a small firm don’t be afraid to ask for the recipient by name – you have nothing to lose!
• Tailor you letter and, because the firm might not know about apprenticeships, mention some of the key advantages. You might want to say something like:

“I am writing to see whether it might be possible to spend a day shadowing one of your fee-earners during [the Easter holidays, which this year are from [date] to [date]]. I am [16] and am currently a student at [school/college] and am hoping to do a legal apprenticeship when I leave [school in July 2013]. I am particularly interested in [criminal/family/personal injury] law, hence my approaching your firm].

If you have not come across legal apprenticeships before, they are a new way for firms to recruit ambitious people into support roles and then receive training that can enable them to progress to fee-earning positions in the future. The initial training costs are usually met in full by the Government and I believe that a grant of £1,500 is also available in some cases.

A copy of my CV is enclosed. Please do not hesitate to call me if you have any queries.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely ”

NB – you will need to tailor this, particularly the bits in square brackets!

If a firm that you contact has any questions about legal apprenticeships by all means put them in touch with Damar – we would be happy to speak to them or let them have further information.

If you don’t hear anything within a week or so, don’t be afraid to call and check that you letter has been safely received.

Good luck!

Next week – Preparing for interview

Week 4 – Interview technique

Week 5 – Becoming an apprentice if you already have a job in the legal sector.

Week 2 – CVs and covering letters

Getting an apprenticeship with a law firm can seem daunting but over the next few weeks we will be sharing some useful tips to help you kick start your legal career. Last week we looked at how to identify the right role and register for vacancies. If you haven’t read it yet click here.

This week we are looking at CVs, covering letters and how to “get through the door” of a potential employer.

Before we start though, key points to remember:

1. An apprenticeship is not a course; it is a job with training.
2. To be an apprentice you need to get a job.
3. A specialist legal apprenticeship provider can help, but can never guarantee, to get you a suitable job role.
4. Apprenticeships in popular sectors such as law and accountancy are over-subscribed, making competition fierce.
5. There is no apprenticeship funding for graduates and so if you are a graduate an apprenticeship is unlikely to be for you.
6. Almost all law firms are looking for good GCSEs (at least 5 A* to Cs) and many look for good A levels as well.
7. Think about a backup plan if you are not successful. This can make you feel less stressed and actually help you during the application process.

CVs and application forms

Having a well-written CV is vital. Sadly, many good applicants never get beyond the first stage because their CV is poorly set out, contains spelling mistakes or doesn’t include relevant information. Fortunately the National Careers Service has some excellent support materials to help you write your CV or complete an application form here. Just a few tips from us though:

• Get a few people you trust to read it – a teacher or, even better, an employer.
• Include any relevant skills. Employers are looking for people who:
  • Are organised
  • Can work as part of a team
  • Can build relationships
  • Can cope with responsibility

It doesn’t matter if you haven’t yet been able to demonstrate these skills in a job. But you might have:

• Organised an event
• Played in/managed/coached a sports team
• Done some voluntary or charity work

It’s the skills that count, not where you obtained them!

Finally: read it, read it again, get some people that you trust to read it and don’t send it to anyone until you know it is perfect. You won’t get a second chance to make a first impression!

Covering letters

This is your opportunity to really stand out. Some applicants send their CV to employers with no covering letter or email or (even worse) a standard letter that has clearly been used for lots of different jobs. It does take time, but it is worth it. Again, there is really good advice on how to write a covering letter on the National Careers Service website here. You can also see how to lay out your letter.

Some extra top tips:

• Parts of the legal sector are quite traditional. If your handwriting is clear, write your covering letter by hand and send it by post or, even better, drop it in personally. If you are smart and well presented this might be fed back to the decision maker!
• Most law firms are (or were) partnerships rather than companies. If you are writing to a firm of solicitors always talk about your “firm” not your “company”. Attention to detail is vital for lawyers and even something as apparently small as this needs to be right!
• Always research who you should send the letter to and address it to that person. If you are not 100% certain, send it to the senior partner or managing partner of the firm (you will usually find this on the firm’s website).
• Legal apprenticeships are new and the firm may not have heard of them. If it is a speculative application you may want to add an initial paragraph such as:

“I am writing to see whether you may have any opportunities for legal apprentices with your firm? The legal apprenticeship pathway is a new way for firms to recruit ambitious people into administrative roles and then receive training that can enable them to progress into fee-earning positions in the future. If you were to take me on the cost of the training would be [met by the Government in full] [if you are under 19][subsidised by the Government] [if you are 19+ with no qualifications higher than A level]. Your firm may also be eligible for a £1,500 grant if you haven’t recruited apprentices in the last year.”

Good luck!

Next week – work experience.

Week 3 – Preparing for interview

Week 4 – Interview technique

Week 5 – Becoming an apprentice if you already have a job in the legal sector.

Week 1 – The Basics

Getting an apprenticeship with a law firm can seem daunting but over the next few weeks we will be sharing some useful tips to help you kick start your legal career.

Before we start though, key points to remember:

1. An apprenticeship is not a course; it is a job with training.
2. To be an apprentice you need to get a job.
3. A specialist legal apprenticeship provider can help, but can never guarantee, to find you a suitable job role.
4. Apprenticeships in popular sectors such as law and accountancy are over-subscribed, making competition fierce.
5. There is no apprenticeship funding for graduates and so if you are a graduate an apprenticeship is unlikely to be for you.
6. Almost all law firms are looking for good GCSEs (at least 5 A* to Cs) and many look for good A levels as well.
7. Think about a backup plan if you are not successful. This can make you feel less stressed and actually help you during the application process.

As with all job hunting, good planning is essential and can greatly increase your chances of success. Over the coming weeks we will guide you through the process to give you the best possible chance of finding a legal apprenticeship.Once you have done your research on the legal sector and have decided first, that it’s for you and, second, what kind of law firm you want to work for, you need to find some potential vacancies. Your first step is to think about the kind of role that will suit you at the outset and then to find a law firm that might have a vacancy…

Identifying the right role for you

It is far better applying for ten vacancies at the right level than one hundred at the wrong level. Although your aim will likely be progression to the Higher Apprenticeship in Legal Services and perhaps beyond, most entry level roles are not at this level.

For most GCSE and A level leavers, the work that you will be carrying out in year one is likely to focus on administrative support to more senior staff and solicitors. This may include some legal work such as research and work on case files but you will not be managing cases or advising clients. Consequently your starting point may well be either an Intermediate Apprenticeship in Legal Administration or (once it is launched in mid-2013) an Advanced Apprenticeship in Legal Services.

Registering for vacancies

1. Register with the National Apprenticeship Service’s “Apprenticeship Vacancies” site here. NB: because the legal apprenticeship pathway is new you won’t find many opportunities here yet but it is still wise to register.
2. Register your interest in the Higher Apprenticeship in Legal Services here.
3. Follow @LegalApprentice on Twitter for news on legal apprenticeships.
4. “Like” Legal Apprenticeships on Facebook to receive updates concerning legal apprenticeships, particularly vacancies.

Increasing your chances of finding a vacancy

With 10 or more applicants chasing every vacancy, the basics won’t be enough to get many apprentices a place. Here’s how to increase your chances:

1. Use your school or college. Ask whether your school/college knows any firms of solicitors. Are any of the governors solicitors? If your school/college has a law or careers department start here.
2. Research firms of solicitors near you. Find out who is in charge of recruiting trainee solicitors (it’s usually on their website). Do not forget the smaller solicitors’ firms. Although they may have fewer vacancies there is also likely to be less competition.
3. You can find law firms near you by searching the Law Society’s database here.
4. Ask friends and family whether they know any solicitors and see if you can get an introduction to them.
5. You never know who has a vacancy and is yet to fully advertise it; you have nothing to lose by asking!

Next week - CVs and covering letters, how to make the approach.

Week 3 – Work experience

Week 4 – Preparing for interview

Week 5 – Interview technique

Week 6 – Becoming an apprentice if you already have a job in the legal sector.

NICOLE – Administration/Customer Service, Central Stockport, Central Manchester, South Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A very sweet natured and well presented young lady with over two years works experience.  Her previous vocational area is hairdressing in which she has already achieved a Level 2 qualification and is part way through Level 3.  However, she has made a definite decision that hairdressing is not for her and she would like to transfer her notable organisational and customer service skills to a business environment.
Qualifications:  Level 1 and 2 NVQ hairdressing (5 A-C equivalent), Key skills English and Maths, Art GCSE B
Other:  She enjoys swimming, cinema and shopping.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
SAM – Business Administration, Customer Services, Stockport, Central Manchester
Person Specification and Experience: An extremely confident individual with experience in customer services and sales. Very well presented and a good telephone manner. Qualifications include a GCSE Grade C in Business Communication Systems.
Qualifications: 5 GCSEs Grades A*-C
Other: Travel and Tourism
Contact:  Mike, 0161 480 8171, e-mail Mike@damartraining.com
ADEELA – Accounts/Business Administration, Longsight, Levenshulme, Stockport, Central Manchester
Person Specification and Experience: This candidate is a very reliable individual with lots of experience in the workplace. She is fluent in Urdu and Punjabi and very keen to work in the legal sector:
Qualifications: Gained a Merit in Business Studies at GNVQ and BTEC Levels.
Other: Reading, listening to music.
Contact:  Mike, 0161 480 8171, e-mail Mike@damartraining.com
EMILY – Business and Administration, Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Stockport and Central Manchester
Person Specification and Experience: This reliable candidate has had some experience in customer service and has demonstrated great ability to work in a team. She is friendly and very keen to learn and meet new people.
Qualifications: ICT Level 2 at GCSE
Contact:  Mike, 0161 480 8171, e-mail Mike@damartraining.com
JEMMA – Business and Administration, Prestwich, Manchester Central
Person Specification and Experience: A very outgoing candidate with good motivation and great customer service skills. She has previous experience in customer service roles and a good academic background.
Qualifications: 9 GCSE’s at A*-C.
Contact:  Mike, 0161 480 8171, e-mail Mike@damartraining.com

All these candidates have been pre-screened by Damar and are available to start now.
 
STEVIE -  administration, Central Manchester,Central Wigan, Leigh, Bolton
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated. Undertook her work experience within an office environment.
Qualifications: 9 GCSE’s, NVQ Level 2 in Business & Administration.
Other: Stevie would like a role that gives her the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to achieve her Level 3 NVQ.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
SAMANTHA – administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Didsbury, Sale, Altrincham
Person Specification and Experience: Friendly, polite and well presented.  Sam has previous customer service experience.
Qualifications: 4 GCSE’s B - D, NVQ Level 1 in Beauty Therapy, Duke of Edinburgh Award in Life Skills.
Other: Would like to work in an admin role where there is scope to progress and gain further qualifications.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
DARREN – administration/customer service, Manchester/Oldham/Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Smart and polite young man, excellent communication skills. Currently working in a voluntary administrative role for a local community project.
Qualifications: Unable to complete his GCSEs due to illness in Year 11, he has made significant independent efforts to gain qualifications since leaving school. He has now achieved GCSE English Language and English Literature at Grade C and Key Skills Level 2 in Numeracy, equivalent to a Grade C at GCSE level.
Other: Hobbies include chess, football and creative writing.  He is strongly recommended for interview.
Contact: Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
GEMMA – Administration, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite young lady who has a determined attitude towards securing employment in Administration.
Qualifications: GCSE English (C), Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 2, Level 1 Diploma -  New Clait.
Other: Hobbies and interests include Swimming, listening to music and socialising.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
TERAJ – administration/customer service, Central Manchester, East Didsbury, Heaton Mersey, Stockport, Cheadle, Gatley, Wilmslow
Person Specification and Experience:  A very bubbly and bright young lady, neat and tidy presentation and confident communication skills.  Teraj has previous part-time work experience and particularly wishes to work within an office, ideally in administration or customer service.
Qualifications:  Teraj has 6 GCSEs grades A-C, including English and Maths
Other:  In her spare time Teraj enjoys playing netball and badminton.  She is also very interested in music and enjoys socialising with her friends and shopping.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ROBERT – Accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  An extremely well presented and charming young man.  Projects a very friendly and co-operative attitude and has achieved excellent GCSEs and  A Levels.  He has demonstrated a commitment to work through his part-time employment.
Qualifications:  11 GCSEs Grade A*-C, 1 AS Level, Grade C, 3 A Levels Grade B-C
Other:  Enjoys sports including football, golf and tennis.  Also enjoys attending music events.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANTIAA – Administration/Accounts, Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young lady with a very sweet nature and bright personality.  She is of very smart appearance and has a polite and endearing manner.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs A-C
Other:  Antiaa is engaged in a community youth dance project and also enjoys roller hockey, tennis and badminton.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
STEPHEN – Administration/Customer Service, Manchester Central, South Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  A very polite and confident young man with a very determined and focused approach to his job seeking.
Qualifications:  GCSEs x 3 A-C, AS Levels x 3 predicted grades C, C, B
Other:  Stephen thrives in a busy environment and is happy to work to deadlines.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANDY – Accountancy/Business Administration, All areas, Car Owner/Driver
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young man, very smart in presentation, most polite and extremely bright.  Andy has consistently held part-time jobs whilst in education and has demonstrated a dedicated work ethic.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs grades A*-C and 3 A Levels
Other:  Andy has a number of hobbies including football, badminton and tennis and he is a member of a local fitness centre.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
OLIVIA – Administration/Customer Service, Central Stockport,  Central Manchester, South Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  An extremely well presented young lady with confident communication skills and polite manner.  She has previous work experience on a part-time basis and as such has already acquired a number of transferable, work related skills.
Qualifications:  7 GCSEs grades A- C
Other:  Amongst her many hobbies, Olivia includes, dance, swimming and reading.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
NICOLE – Administration/Customer Service, Central Stockport, Central Manchester, South Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A very sweet natured and well presented young lady with over two years work experience.  Her previous vocational area is hairdressing in which she has already achieved a Level 2 qualification and is part way through Level 3.  However, she has made a definite decision that hairdressing is not for her and she would like to transfer her notable organisational and customer service skills to a business environment.
Qualifications:  Level 1 and 2 NVQ hairdressing (5 A-C equivalent), Key skills English and Maths, Art GCSE B

Other:  She enjoys swimming, cinema and shopping.Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com

All these candidates have been pre-screened by Damar and are available to start now.
 
STEVIE -  administration, Central Manchester,Central Wigan, Leigh, Bolton
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated. Undertook her work experience within an office environment.
Qualifications: 9 GCSE’s, NVQ Level 2 in Business & Administration.
Other: Stevie would like a role that gives her the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to achieve her Level 3 NVQ.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
SAMANTHA – administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Didsbury, Sale, Altrincham
Person Specification and Experience: Friendly, polite and well presented.  Sam has previous customer service experience.
Qualifications: 4 GCSE’s B - D, NVQ Level 1 in Beauty Therapy, Duke of Edinburgh Award in Life Skills.
Other: Would like to work in an admin role where there is scope to progress and gain further qualifications.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
DARREN – administration/customer service, Manchester/Oldham/Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Smart and polite young man, excellent communication skills. Currently working in a voluntary administrative role for a local community project.
Qualifications: Unable to complete his GCSEs due to illness in Year 11, he has made significant independent efforts to gain qualifications since leaving school. He has now achieved GCSE English Language and English Literature at Grade C and Key Skills Level 2 in Numeracy, equivalent to a Grade C at GCSE level.
Other: Hobbies include chess, football and creative writing.  He is strongly recommended for interview.
Contact: Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
GEMMA – Administration, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite young lady who has a determined attitude towards securing employment in Administration.
Qualifications: GCSE English (C), Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 2, Level 1 Diploma -  New Clait.
Other: Hobbies and interests include Swimming, listening to music and socialising.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
GARY -  administration, Central Manchester,Oldham,Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated outgoing young man with good interpersonal skills. Has prior office experience as an administrator for a company in Spain.
Qualifications: 10 GCSE’s A – C, 2 A’s, 7 B’s, 1 C.  AS Level grade C in ICT.
Other: Gary would like a role that gives him the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to progress once he has proved his ability.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
CHRISTOPHER - administration/accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport, Sale, Didsbury
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite, smart in appearance and a quite confident young man who is looking for employment in Administration or Accounts where he is able to undertake further qualifications.  Work experience has at Manchester University as an Administrator.  Whilst at school Chris has received over 30 certificates for hard work and attendance.
Qualifications:  Predicted – GCSE’s, 1 B, 1 C and 4 D’s.
Other:  Enjoys playing and watching football and going to the gym.

Contact:  Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com 

TERAJ – administration/customer service, Central Manchester, East Didsbury, Heaton Mersey, Stockport, Cheadle, Gatley, Wilmslow
Person Specification and Experience:  A very bubbly and bright young lady, neat and tidy presentation and confident communication skills.  Teraj has previous part-time work experience and particularly wishes to work within an office, ideally in administration or customer service.
Qualifications:  Teraj has 6 GCSEs grades A-C, including English and Maths

Other:  In her spare time Teraj enjoys playing netball and badminton.  She is also very interested in music and enjoys socialising with her friends and shopping.

Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com

ROBERT – Accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  An extremely well presented and charming young man.  Projects a very friendly and co-operative attitude and has achieved excellent GCSEs and  A Levels.  He has demonstrated a commitment to work through his part-time employment.
Qualifications:  11 GCSEs Grade A*-C, 1 AS Level, Grade C, 3 A Levels Grade B-C
Other:  Enjoys sports including football, golf and tennis.  Also enjoys attending music events.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANTIAA – Administration/Accounts, Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young lady with a very sweet nature and bright personality.  She is of very smart appearance and has a polite and endearing manner.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs A-C
Other:  Antiaa is engaged in a community youth dance project and also enjoys roller hockey, tennis and badminton.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
STEPHEN – Administration/Customer Service, Manchester Central, South Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  A very polite and confident young man with a very determined and focused approach to his job seeking.
Qualifications:  GCSEs x 3 A-C, AS Levels x 3 predicted grades C, C, B
Other:  Stephen thrives in a busy environment and is happy to work to deadlines.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANDY – Accountancy/Business Administration, All areas, Car Owner/Driver
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young man, very smart in presentation, most polite and extremely bright.  Andy has consistently held part-time jobs whilst in education and has demonstrated a dedicated work ethic.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs grades A*-C and 3 A Levels

Other:  Andy has a number of hobbies including football, badminton and tennis and he is a member of a local fitness centre.  He is a car owner/driver.

Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com

All these candidates have been pre-screened by Damar and are available to start now.
 
STEVIE -  administration, Central Manchester,Central Wigan, Leigh, Bolton
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated. Undertook her work experience within an office environment.
Qualifications: 9 GCSE’s, NVQ Level 2 in Business & Administration.
Other: Stevie would like a role that gives her the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to achieve her Level 3 NVQ.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
SAMANTHA – administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Didsbury, Sale, Altrincham
Person Specification and Experience: Friendly, polite and well presented.  Sam has previous customer service experience.
Qualifications: 4 GCSE’s B - D, NVQ Level 1 in Beauty Therapy, Duke of Edinburgh Award in Life Skills.
Other: Would like to work in an admin role where there is scope to progress and gain further qualifications.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
DARREN – administration/customer service, Manchester/Oldham/Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Smart and polite young man, excellent communication skills. Currently working in a voluntary administrative role for a local community project.
Qualifications: Unable to complete his GCSEs due to illness in Year 11, he has made significant independent efforts to gain qualifications since leaving school. He has now achieved GCSE English Language and English Literature at Grade C and Key Skills Level 2 in Numeracy, equivalent to a Grade C at GCSE level.
Other: Hobbies include chess, football and creative writing.  He is strongly recommended for interview.
Contact: Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
GEMMA – Administration, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite young lady who has a determined attitude towards securing employment in Administration.
Qualifications: GCSE English (C), Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 2, Level 1 Diploma -  New Clait.
Other: Hobbies and interests include Swimming, listening to music and socialising.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
GARY -  administration, Central Manchester,Oldham,Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated outgoing young man with good interpersonal skills. Has prior office experience as an administrator for a company in Spain.
Qualifications: 10 GCSE’s A – C, 2 A’s, 7 B’s, 1 C.  AS Level grade C in ICT.
Other: Gary would like a role that gives him the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to progress once he has proved his ability.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
CHRISTOPHER - administration/accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport, Sale, Didsbury
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite, smart in appearance and a quite confident young man who is looking for employment in Administration or Accounts where he is able to undertake further qualifications.  Work experience has at Manchester University as an Administrator.  Whilst at school Chris has received over 30 certificates for hard work and attendance.
Qualifications:  Predicted – GCSEs, 1 B, 1 C and 4 Ds.
Other:  Enjoys playing and watching football and going to the gym.
Contact:  Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com

All these candidates have been pre-screened by Damar and are available to start now.
 
GARY -  administration, Central Manchester,Oldham,Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated. Has prior office experience as an administrator for a company in Spain.
Qualifications: 10 GCSE’s A – C, 2 A’s, 7 B’s, 1 C.  AS Level grade C in ICT.
Other: Gary would like a role that gives him the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to progress once he has proved his ability.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
SARAH – administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Friendly, polite and well presented.  Sarah was a member of the Blackpool pleasure beach junior board of directors where she regularly attended meetings.
Qualifications: 5 GCSE’s A – C, NVQ Level 1 in Engineering.
Other: Would like to work in an admin role where there is scope to progress and gain further qualifications.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
DARREN – administration/customer service, Manchester/Oldham/Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Smart and polite young man, excellent communication skills. Currently working in a voluntary administrative role for a local community project.
Qualifications: Unable to complete his GCSEs due to illness in Year 11, he has made significant independent efforts to gain qualifications since leaving school. He has now achieved GCSE English Language and English Literature at Grade C and Key Skills Level 2 in Numeracy, equivalent to a Grade C at GCSE level.
Other: Hobbies include chess, football and creative writing.  He is strongly recommended for interview.
Contact: Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
GEMMA – Administration, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite young lady who has a determined attitude towards securing employment in Administration.
Qualifications: GCSE English (C), Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 2, Level 1 Diploma -  New Clait.
Other: Hobbies and interests include Swimming, listening to music and socialising.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
MICHAEL - administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Hyde
Person Specification and Experience:  Outgoing young man, with good interpersonal skills, looking to enter employment with the admin field with a view to progressing and gaining the relevant qualifications. 
Other:  Currently plays football for Denton West End Club where he has won top goal scorer and goal of the season.
Contact:  Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
CHRISTOPHER - administration/accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport, Sale, Didsbury
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite, smart in appearance and a quite confident young man who is looking for employment in Administration or Accounts where he is able to undertake further qualifications.  Work experience has at Manchester University as an Administrator.  Whilst at school Chris has received over 30 certificates for hard work and attendance.
Qualifications:  Predicted – GCSE’s, 1 B, 1 C and 4 D’s.
Other:  Enjoys playing and watching football and going to the gym.
Contact:  Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
ROBERT – Accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  An extremely well presented and charming young man.  Projects a very friendly and co-operative attitude and has achieved excellent GCSEs and  A Levels.  He has demonstrated a commitment to work through his part-time employment.
Qualifications:  11 GCSEs Grade A*-C, 1 AS Level, Grade C, 3 A Levels Grade B-C
Other:  Enjoys sports including football, golf and tennis.  Also enjoys attending music events.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANTIAA – Administration/Accounts, Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young lady with a very sweet nature and bright personality.  She is of very smart appearance and has a polite and endearing manner.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs A-C
Other:  Antiaa is engaged in a community youth dance project and also enjoys roller hockey, tennis and badminton.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
STEPHEN – Administration/Customer Service, Manchester Central, South Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  A very polite and confident young man with a very determined and focused approach to his job seeking.
Qualifications:  GCSEs x 3 A-C, AS Levels x 3 predicted grades C, C, B
Other:  Stephen thrives in a busy environment and is happy to work to deadlines.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANDY – Accountancy/Business Administration, All areas, Car Owner/Driver
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young man, very smart in presentation, most polite and extremely bright.  Andy has consistently held part-time jobs whilst in education and has demonstrated a dedicated work ethic.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs grades A*-C and 3 A Levels
Other:  Andy has a number of hobbies including football, badminton and tennis and he is a member of a local fitness centre.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
LIZZIE – Administration/Customer Service, Manchester Central, Central Stockport, South Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A delightful and bright young lady.  Very confident and articulate with a polite and appealing manner.
Qualifications:  10 GCSEs grades A-C, 3 AS Levels and an ILEX Certificate.
Other:  Lizzie has achieved the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and has successfully held a number of part-time roles whilst in education.

Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com

All these candidates have been pre-screened by Damar and are available to start now.
 
GARY -  administration, Central Manchester,Oldham,Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Mature, responsible approach to work. Presentable, enthusiastic and highly motivated. Has prior office experience as an administrator for a company in Spain.
Qualifications: 10 GCSE’s A – C, 2 A’s, 7 B’s, 1 C.  AS Level grade C in ICT.
Other: Gary would like a role that gives him the opportunity to provide exceptional support to a busy team and where there are opportunities to progress once he has proved his ability.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
SARAH – administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Friendly, polite and well presented.  Sarah was a member of the Blackpool pleasure beach junior board of directors where she regularly attended meetings.
Qualifications: 5 GCSE’s A – C, NVQ Level 1 in Engineering.
Other: Would like to work in an admin role where there is scope to progress and gain further qualifications.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
DARREN – administration/customer service, Manchester/Oldham/Tameside
Person Specification and Experience: Smart and polite young man, excellent communication skills. Currently working in a voluntary administrative role for a local community project.
Qualifications: Unable to complete his GCSEs due to illness in Year 11, he has made significant independent efforts to gain qualifications since leaving school. He has now achieved GCSE English Language and English Literature at Grade C and Key Skills Level 2 in Numeracy, equivalent to a Grade C at GCSE level.
Other: Hobbies include chess, football and creative writing.  He is strongly recommended for interview.
Contact: Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
GEMMA – Administration, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite young lady who has a determined attitude towards securing employment in Administration.
Qualifications: GCSE English (C), Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 2, Level 1 Diploma -  New Clait.
Other: Hobbies and interests include Swimming, listening to music and socialising.
Contact: Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
MICHAEL - administration, Central Manchester, Stockport, Hyde
Person Specification and Experience:  Outgoing young man, with good interpersonal skills, looking to enter employment with the admin field with a view to progressing and gaining the relevant qualifications. 
Other:  Currently plays football for Denton West End Club where he has won top goal scorer and goal of the season.
Contact:  Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com
CHRISTOPHER - administration/accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport, Sale, Didsbury
Person Specification and Experience:  Polite, smart in appearance and a quite confident young man who is looking for employment in Administration or Accounts where he is able to undertake further qualifications.  Work experience has at Manchester University as an Administrator.  Whilst at school Chris has received over 30 certificates for hard work and attendance.
Qualifications:  Predicted – GCSE’s, 1 B, 1 C and 4 D’s.
Other:  Enjoys playing and watching football and going to the gym.
Contact:  Debbie Smith, 0161 480 8171, email debbie@damartraining.com

ROBERT – Accounts, Central Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  An extremely well presented and charming young man.  Projects a very friendly and co-operative attitude and has achieved excellent GCSEs and  A Levels.  He has demonstrated a commitment to work through his part-time employment.
Qualifications:  11 GCSEs Grade A*-C, 1 AS Level, Grade C, 3 A Levels Grade B-C
Other:  Enjoys sports including football, golf and tennis.  Also enjoys attending music events.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANTIAA – Administration/Accounts, Manchester
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young lady with a very sweet nature and bright personality.  She is of very smart appearance and has a polite and endearing manner.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs A-C
Other:  Antiaa is engaged in a community youth dance project and also enjoys roller hockey, tennis and badminton.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
STEPHEN – Administration/Customer Service, Manchester Central, South Manchester, Stockport
Person Specification and Experience:  A very polite and confident young man with a very determined and focused approach to his job seeking.
Qualifications:  GCSEs x 3 A-C, AS Levels x 3 predicted grades C, C, B
Other:  Stephen thrives in a busy environment and is happy to work to deadlines.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com
ANDY – Accountancy/Business Administration, All areas, Car Owner/Driver
Person Specification and Experience:  A lovely young man, very smart in presentation, most polite and extremely bright.  Andy has consistently held part-time jobs whilst in education and has demonstrated a dedicated work ethic.
Qualifications:  9 GCSEs grades A*-C and 3 A Levels
Other:  Andy has a number of hobbies including football, badminton and tennis and he is a member of a local fitness centre.  He is a car owner/driver.
Contact:  Maria Grimsley, 0161 480 8171, email maria@damartraining.com