Skillseekers

Skillseekers is a vocational training programme for young people who want to develop skills and equip themselves for the world of work. It's open to people who have left school and have a job or who are looking for work. However, the Scottish Government indicated in the recent 'Skills for Scotland' Strategy that the Skillseekers programme would be phased out in Scotland as the MA programme is extended to S/NVQ Level 2 (SCQF 5).

Who can take part?

Young people between the ages of 16 and 19 can take part in Skillseekers. The only exception is students who are still at school or who are in further or higher education.

What does it offer?

Skillseekers helps you train to nationally-recognised standards. The cost of your training will be covered. More details on qualifications and other questions are listed below.

Or take a look at the Scottish Training Directory to see the types of course on offer.

How do I get involved?

If you'd like more information, contact your nearest Careers Scotland Centre. There are 100 around Scotland. To find the nearest one, just call 0845 8 502 502. Alternatively, employers can also speak to Skills Development Scotland or their local Business Gateway outlet for information on training and staff development on 0845 609 6611.

Anything else?

Most Skillseekers are in work, but don't worry if you don't have a job. If you are between 16 and 19 you can still use Skillseekers to train for a job through work experience. This is called a work placement. Your local Careers Scotland Centre can help you find a work placement. Staff can also put you in touch with a training company who will arrange a placement with a suitable employer and organise your training.

Is there a qualification for every job?

Just about. There is a wide range of opportunities available through Skillseekers, including some you might never have thought about. Ask your guidance teacher or careers adviser for copies of case-studies featuring Skillseekers working in your area. Another route from Skillseekers is a Modern Apprenticeship.

Find out more on Modern Apprenticeships.

Can I use Skillseekers with any employer?

Yes, but only if your employer is willing to train you to at least VQ Level II. If you cannot find the type of job you want in your area, it may be possible to look for one further afield.

Contact your local Careers Scotland Centre for more information.

Skillseekers - guide for trainees (PDF, 504 kb)
Skillseekers - guide for employers (PDF, 421 kb)
Skillseekers - Stuart Chapman case study (PDF, 152kb)
Skillseekers - Paula Burns case study (PDF, 142kb)
Skillseekers - Scott Ramsey case study (PDF, 177kb)