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Not sure what to do? Explore subjects, locations, universities, and colleges

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Interested in an apprenticeship? Find out what you need to know, from entry requirements to salary and get inspiration from other apprentices. From UCAS.

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Study for a qualification over an extended period, or take a short course to gain specific knowledge or develop skills in leadership and management. These could be:

a programme or short course run by a college or university

a practitioner qualification awarded by a specialist training provider

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Study for a qualification over an extended period, or take a short course to gain specific knowledge or develop skills in leadership and management. These could be: a programme or short course run by a college or university a practitioner qualification awarded by a specialist training provider

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GCSE is the qualification taken by 15 and 16 year olds to mark their graduation from the Key Stage 4 phase of secondary education in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

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Skills for All with Cisco Networking Academy

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Free online tech courses backed by Cisco's expertise and connected to real career paths. Discover your future today.

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The skills required to advance your career and earn your spot at the top do not come easily. Now there's a more rewarding approach to hands-on learning that helps you achieve your goals faster. Earn points, levels, and achieve more!

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Technology | Latest News & Updates | BBC News

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Get all the latest news, live updates and content about Technology from across the BBC.

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Register your profile, search vacancies and apply for an apprenticeship - you must be 16 or over

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The latest breaking news, comment and features from The Independent.

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New Imperatives For IT: Driving Success in a Changing World

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New Imperatives For IT: Driving Success in a Changing World

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This is a critical time for IT teams. The investments you make today must empower a modern digital business that is agile, adaptive, resilient and secure. This means technologies that enable you to maximize the value of your data; leverage consumption-based models from the edge to the cloud; and empower your customers, workers, supply chains and ecosystems with solutions that are resilient, service-oriented, easy to scale and highly secure. The articles in this special section focus on a wide range of digital solutions from edge to cloud, featuring real-world examples of successful organizations that are modernizing IT to transform their businesses.

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New Imperatives For IT: Driving Success in a Changing World

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This is a critical time for IT teams. The investments you make today must empower a modern digital business that is agile, adaptive, resilient and secure. This means technologies that enable you to maximize the value of your data; leverage consumption-based models from the edge to the cloud; and empower your customers, workers, supply chains and ecosystems with solutions that are resilient, service-oriented, easy to scale and highly secure.

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Highfield - Creating a Free Personal Development Plan

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Highfield - Creating a Free Personal Development Plan

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What is a Personal Development Plan?

A personal development plan (or PDP) isn't just a mandatory something that managers makes you do before a yearly appraisal; they're also that firm rock that helps your dreams and desires stay in sight.

A good plan provides focus; it helps you map out a path towards your version of success; it allows you to make better decisions, and it prevents you from taking backwards steps. A good plan also allows you to strategise and get back on track when things do go wrong.

A clear plan is also beneficial for your mental health as a sense of purposefulness can often help reduce stress and anxiety.
Download Free PDP Example/Template
So if you haven't considered where you want to go or if you've ever thought that a five-year plan isn't for you, now is the time to start thinking about who and where you want to be in your future.

If you're struggling after finishing university or the job market just isn't what you thought it would be, it's easier than you might think to get organised and discover what you want.

Writing a Personal Development Plan

There are seven steps to writing a PDP:

1. Set yourself goals.

2. Prioritise those goals.

3. Set yourself deadlines for when you want to achieve them.

4. Recognise threats and opportunities.

5. Develop your skills or increase your knowledge.

6. Use your support network.

7. Measure your progress.

1. Set Yourself Goals

Search for the things you really want in life, these are your long-term goals.

As a twenty-something, you're in one of the scariest phases of life. Everything feels chaotic, and there are many frustrations. Figuring out what you want is not only the first step in planning, it's also the hardest. Once you've figured out what you want to do, that dream acts an emotional anchor; it provides stability and structure in a time of chaos.
By the way, your life goals should be difficult; they should feel enormous, and scary, and totally overwhelming.
You're going to break them down into tiny baby steps, and that will make them feel manageable and achievable, and you will achieve them.

But, before you do that, your goals SHOULD overwhelm you. This is because you're thinking and planning for your future. And, it's normal and natural to feel scared; it's your life you're planning, and that's a serious matter indeed.

2. Prioritising Your Goals

Next, you need to consider all the little steps that will help you achieve your big goals. And you'll need to prioritise these short-term goals. Remember that you can't do everything at once and trying to will lead to failure.

Consider what step needs to happen now.
Download Free PDP Example/Template
In your PDP, set yourself mini goals to make the big ones happen.

For example, say you want a career in academia as a senior lecturer and someday a professor. First, you're going to need a PhD to make that happen. So there's a big goal, now break it down into steps like this:

1. Learn about the PhD application process.

2. Find a suitable university and supervisor for a PhD.

3. Look at routes for funding.

4. Find studentships to apply for/or apply to your university of choice.

5. Write and submit your PhD application.

3. Set Yourself Deadlines

Knowing when you want to achieve a goal is crucial and picturing your future is an important source of motivation and inspiration.

Day-dreaming is a vital motivation mechanism, and you should harness it to set a deadline on your goals. When you picture yourself buying your first home, how old are you? When you walk up on that graduation stage and get your doctorate, when will that be?

But dreams cannot be the only way to set deadlines; you need to make your dreams realistic. Otherwise, you could become discouraged.

Find out the likelihood of you achieving your dreams by speaking to other people about their experiences and researching the process so you get a realistic idea of what to expect.

Realism factors are vital because they prevent you from becoming discouraged when you do hit pitfalls, they also help you learn more about the things you want to achieve, and can help you predict future problems and plan how to avoid them!

4. Recognise threats and opportunities

There are going to be certain things - they could be external things or an element of yourself - that, if you let them, will prevent you from achieving your goals or delay you on your way.

These are your threats.

For example, a lack of motivation could be detrimental to applying for that PhD. But once you've identified your tendency to procrastinate or lose focus you can put in place methods that will keep you motivated on your dreams.
Download Free PDP Example/Template
There are also going to be things that you could do, and connections you could take advantage of that will help you on your way. These are things you should commit to doing; these are your opportunities.

For example, if there's a conference coming up. Take advantage of that situation. Go along and network, stay up to date on the latest knowledge, even present a paper!

5. Develop yourself

Once you have an idea of what could hinder you and what could help you, this is when you can capitalise on those opportunities you recognised. Make an action plan about how you'll make that progress.

So take that course, cut down on unnecessary spending or figure out a way to make sure you stay motivated.

Whatever it is that hinders you, there's a way to stop it, and your plan is the first step.

6. Use your support network

The next thing you need to realise is that:
You don't have to do everything by yourself.
And you shouldn't. The support network around you is a valuable asset, so use it and don't underestimate it.

In your PDP, list the people who can help you. This could be a financial advisor, a friend, a colleague. People are often so happy to help you, more than you might realise.

7. Measure progress

Whether it's big or small, after you've achieved some progress take time to reflect on how far you've come.

Recognising what has gone well is a way to bolster your motivation and remain dedicated.
Download Free PDP Example/Template
And after a setback, this is another time to take stock.

Wallowing - briefly - is a good way to feel what you need to without holding on to it. Holding onto sadness, anger or frustration, however, will only deter you. These emotions will take you nowhere and will only hinder you.

You should also spend a little time figuring out why it went wrong. Can you identify a skills or knowledge gap? If you can, then you can get yourself back on track by focusing on your next little step; this will reignite your sense of purpose and help you regain control which is integral to making progress.

Further Resources:

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Free Personal Development Plan (PDP) Example Template PDF

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A personal development plan (or PDP) isn't just a mandatory something that managers makes you do before a yearly appraisal; they're also that firm rock that helps your dreams and desires stay in sight. A good plan provides focus; it helps you map out a path towards your version of success; it allows you to make better decisions, and it prevents you from taking backwards steps.

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Many organisations offer free online learning in a range of subjects and levels. You can explore providers, the subjects they offer and the levels available before choosing. For advice on what to look out for, see our guide to choosing an online course.

As well as online only providers, you might also find courses with:

state funded colleges and training organisations

universities - you can search UCAS to find these

large employers in a range of sectors like finance, IT, business and engineering

Courses offered by state funded universities and colleges are inspected and approved by the government. Private companies offering online learning are not, so you'll need to check to make sure that courses are of good quality.

The Open and Distance Learning Quality Council's guide may help you to find good quality online courses.

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Where to find free online learning | National Careers Service

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Many organisations offer free online learning in a range of subjects and levels. You can explore providers, the subjects they offer and the levels available before choosing. For advice on what to look out for, see our guide to choosing an online course.

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Non-Clinical is the backbone of the NHS, making up 18% of the total staff. We at NHS Professionals (NHSP) are always looking for people to join the bank and work flexibly in Admin and Clerical, Estates and Facilities, and Corporate Function roles. Below are some of the types of roles we recruit for:

Whether you have skills and experience in one of these areas, or would like a career in healthcare, we can help you find the right opportunities.

If you have not yet enquired about joining NHSP, you can register your interest below and a member of the team will be in contact to discuss your skills and any potential opportunities for you.

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Non-Clinical is the backbone of the NHS, making up 18% of the total staff. We at NHS Professionals (NHSP) are always looking for people to join the bank and work flexibly in Admin and Clerical, Estates and Facilities, and Corporate Function roles.

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Exercises in every lesson

TryHackMe goes way beyond textbooks and focuses on fun interactive lessons that make you put theory into practice. You'll get an immersive learning experience with network simulations, intentionally vulnerable technology based on real world examples and more.

Beginner Friendly

New to security? No problem! We have learning paths that will teach you the fundamental cyber security skills, which will help set you up to land a job in cyber security.

Start Hacking Instantly

We give you all the tools you need to start learning. Access a machine with the security tools you'll need through the browser, and starting learning from anywhere at any time. All you need is an internet connection!

Real-world Networks

Take your cyber security training to the next stage by learning to attack and defend computer networks similar to those used by various organisations today.

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TryHackMe is a free online platform for learning cyber security, using hands-on exercises and labs, all through your browser!

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Looking for the latest guidance on hiring, or information on how you can upskill yourself to land your next role? Look no further. Our eBooks, guides and tools have all been designed to make your life easier. Download one of our free resources to help you on your journey...

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Finding jobseeking tips you can actually use. That's how it feels to love Mondays.

Featured Articles

We want everyone to find a job that helps them love Mondays. That's why we've put together a wide range of tips - written by experts - in everything from CVs and interviews, through to finding the right job and career development.

So no matter what stage you're at in your career, we've got you covered.

Get clued up on your rights with our informative employment law guide, for both employees and employers alike. We've got a range of employment law advice, from information on employee rights and pensions, to money saving tips and advice on how to deal with jobseeking discrimination.

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Career Advice & Guidance | Job Tips & Resources | Reed.co.uk

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Expert career advice and guidance from Reed.co.uk. Read CV tips, cover letter advice, interview questions and more. Love Mondays and secure your dream job.

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Jobs and Recruitment on Reed.co.uk, the UK’s #1 job site

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The UK’s No.1 job site is taking the pain out of looking for a job. The app brings to market for the first time a new and powerful way to find and apply for the right job for you, with over 200,000 jobs from the UK’s top employers.

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Latest further education and skills news: breaking news, in-depth investigations and expert opinion on colleges, apprenticeships and FE in England

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Joined up thinking from education to employment, further education, skills and apprenticeship news. Thought leadership by FE community experts, FE News.

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Cyber security is how individuals and organisations reduce the risk of cyber attack.

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Offered £100 million and all you have to do is hand your bank details over? This complete guide by Money Saving Expert shows you how to spot and avoid scams - including liar Facebook ads using our name - how to protect yourself and what to do if you're a victim of a scam.

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The fictional profiles represent a range of voters in battleground constituencies across the UK, giving an insight into what content is promoted to different types of people. The profiles are private, with no friends. They just like, follow and watch content relevant to their character traits informed by the Natcen research.

I examined the feeds of the profiles of three of these fictional voters in the former "red wall" constituency of Bishop Auckland, a target for Labour which is currently held by the Conservatives - and where our Undercover Voters are younger.

Their social media feeds revealed that, while other sites have also experienced a flurry of political content, TikTok had the most lively conversation, particularly among younger voters.

TikTok has boomed since the last election. According to media regulator Ofcom, it was the fastest-growing source of news in the UK for the second year in a row in 2023 - used by 10% of adults in this way. One in 10 teenagers say it is their most important news source.

TikTok is engaging a new generation in the democratic process. Whether you use the social media app or not, what is unfolding on its site could shape narratives about the election and its candidates - including in ways that may be unfounded.

Content promoted to Undercover Voter character Jack, a disaffected 31-year-old, include TikToks misrepresenting remarks made by Labour politicians in speech bubbles. These include comments about immigration, transgender rights, Brexit - and false claims that the shadow international development secretary called to "abolish the Army".

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TikTok: AI fakes, abuse and misinformation pushed to young voters

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A BBC project investigates the election content promoted by social media by tracking dozens of phones.

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Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education

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We're building a joined up and high quality skills system in England.

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We are transforming and improving the skills system by putting employers at the heart and making it easier to navigate for all.

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Register your profile, search vacancies and apply for an apprenticeship - you must be 16 or over

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Information Technology (IT) Certifications & Training | CompTIA

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Start or grow your career in IT with an IT certification from CompTIA. Find everything you need to get certified - from exploring certifications to training to taking your exam.

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Below are some examples of how you might frame your experience into transferrable skills. The skills are highlighted in bold.

Meet Ben: the hustler

Ben works part-time as retail assistant in a supermarket at the weekends and in school holidays. He is also studying for his A levels at the same time. Ben could draw from this:

Meet Anna: the baking queen

Anna is currently studying in her last year at college. In her first year, there was an opportunity to go out to Kenya and volunteer with school. She needed to raise £1,000 to go. She organised a bake sale and ran a 10K race through her local town. She managed to raise the money, and some extra for the charity. Anna's transferrable skills might be:

Meet Jodie: the footie fanatic

Jodie has been part of her school football team for the past two years. She's very passionate about football and helps organise the transport for matches, as well as playing herself. She's always trying to boost team morale. Jodie could draw from this:

Meet Aki: the piano player

Aki has been playing the guitar since he was five years old and has reached his Grade 8. He also plays the piano and the clarinet. He's played in lots of school concerts and has recently decided to start his own band. Some of Aki's transferrable skills might be:

Meet Sam: the keen journalist

Sam has written for the school newspaper for two years. She was recently promoted to editor. She makes sure the paper gets out on time and manages a team of five other journalists. Some of Sam's key skills might be:

Meet Joel: the young carer

Joel has been caring for his dad since he was 11 and helps looks after his younger sister. He does most things around the house, takes his sister to school, and makes sure his dad has the medication he needs. Some of Joel's transferrable skills might be:

You can find out more about skills as a young carer from the Carer's Trust.

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How to identify your transferable skills

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How to write a CV, cover letter or apprenticeship application with no professional experience. How to identify your transferrable skills when you leave school. From UCAS.