Consider entering work straight from school

Talking Point

Brian Richardson Chief executive, H&H Group

It is that time of year when sixth formers are planning the next few years of their life. This often means full-time college or university education as, for many, going straight into the workforce is an admission of failure. But with tuition fees, and the current economic climate, is this really the best choice?

If you have a clear idea of what you want to do and additional qualifications are needed, it’s absolutely right to follow that path. After studying, your career will hopefully pay a salary justifying the fees and inevitable student loan repayments.

Many students pick the wrong course and high dropout rates are the inevitable result, however. Guiding young people onto the right course is vital; it’s not the good social life or where your mates go that’s important, it’s about how you can best fulfil your own potential.

Higher tuition fees are forcing young people to make better decisions about their future. Within our companies at H&H Group, more students are looking to enter the workplace straight after leaving school. This is beneficial to both parties, as it provides us with a pool of young people we can mentor to develop a career in their chosen area, more closely aligned with our needs.

I am keen to see people join the business from all walks of life and experience. We may require specific qualifications and a minimum criteria, but we are also looking for good young people who we can train and develop ourselves. To choose between applicants, many larger employers are spending more time focusing on the character and potential of the individual and not just their degrees.

As the legislation and costs of employment become tougher, it’s important for employers to choose carefully and to create a working environment where employees are happy and want to stay. On-the-job training and extra vocational skills can all support the development of staff and it is important for businesses to invest in training for business growth and to help staff progress.

So if you have a clear idea of your career path and the academic tools needed to get to your goal, make sure you get on the right course and enjoy the experience. If you are uncertain about the future and whether or not further education will really take you forward, do consider going straight into work.

The job market is not easy at the moment and may not be a lot better in five years’ time. Grasp what’s available out there now. Don’t just wait for a job to be advertised, write to companies about what you want to do. If it’s about reaching your potential, there may be more profitable ways to do this than university – in more ways than one.

Brian Richardson is chief executive of H&H Group, Carlisle, whose companies include Harrison & Hetherington and H&H Bowe.

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