CXK increases provision for supporting the unemployed

CXK has launched its own Careers Adviser training programme, with the first set of trainees completing their 6 week initial training period last week.

The launch of the initiative follows CXK’s success in securing the new National Careers Service delivery contract for the south-east region last year, which will see the charity deliver careers information, advice, and guidance services to 44,000 adults in 2019. The contract has seen CXK’s expansion of its service across the counties of Kent, East and West Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and Isle of Wight; creating the need for the training of the new crop of Careers Advisers.

“All of our careers advisers are trained to a minimum of Level 4”

Vicki Love, CXK’s Guidance and Development Manager, who coordinated the programme, commented on the Trainee’s journey. “To qualify in the role of a professional careers adviser requires extensive training. It also requires the ongoing development and maintenance of skills and knowledge. All of our careers advisers are trained to a minimum of Level 4. With the need for greater provision across Kent and East Sussex, we felt it was necessary to design a rigorous training programme. This will allow us to develop the very best careers professionals.

“I’ve been hugely proud of the way the trainees have come together as a group. They’ve supported each other and shared experiences. Their commitment and enthusiasm for both the organisation and the role has been evident throughout. This will stand them in good stead for their future development.”

“I’ve been hugely proud of the way in which the trainees have come together as a group”

Trainee Graeme Dutch said: “This has been a really interesting induction. It’s been a good mix between learning the foundations of the role and observing the job day to day. I’ve gained confidence and although there is a long way to go I feel excited and motivated to go out and do a great job.”

The 7 trainees will now go on to complete a further 16 months training. This will see them go out into the field and deliver careers advice to clients across Kent and East Sussex.

The National Careers Service provides free careers information, advice, and guidance services to anyone aged 13+. The service is available via individual and group face-to-face sessions, over the telephone, and through digital and social media platforms. The service places particular emphasis on priority groups who may need more help in developing their career management skills and progressing in work or learning.

For more information call 0800 100 900.