V
Victorcrane
Hello all, I do hope someone may be able to give me some advice.
I'm currently studying the C&G 2330, and am about to finish my second year. I decided to do the course full time in an effort to better my prospects, and after working as a mate for nine months I found the career an interesting and fulfilling one. Keep in mind I am the grand old age of 29.
The problem I have is that I am now looking to find work as of June and intended to work whilst doing my 3rd year of the 2330 which is only part time in the evenings, and every single contractor I have approached has turned me down on the basis that I'm too old!
I understand the governement provides funding for apprentices aged below 24 and this is attractive to companies. All the companies I spoke to said that because they won't get funding for me, they won't take me on. They will only consider an apprentice below 24 or a fully qualified spark.
I have pointed out that I have paid in full for myself to do the course and will continue to do so, but nobody wants to know. I have also pointed out that I have achieved a Distinction in every exam so far, and all of my practical assessments.
I'm very sad about this, as I'm now 2 grand down the line, more able and reliable than the other lads on the course, and yet they're grabbing apprenticeships left right and centre purely because they're young. Honestly, some of these lads still don't know how to select an appropriate cable and yet in three months they'll be running about in peoples homes.
So... what on earth do I do? Has anyone been in my position and can anyone tell me who I may approach. I just feel I have a lot to offer and nobody wants to give me a chance. It rather makes a mockery of all these 'change your career now' ads on tv!
Any advice greatly appreciated.
A very miserable Victor.
I'm currently studying the C&G 2330, and am about to finish my second year. I decided to do the course full time in an effort to better my prospects, and after working as a mate for nine months I found the career an interesting and fulfilling one. Keep in mind I am the grand old age of 29.
The problem I have is that I am now looking to find work as of June and intended to work whilst doing my 3rd year of the 2330 which is only part time in the evenings, and every single contractor I have approached has turned me down on the basis that I'm too old!
I understand the governement provides funding for apprentices aged below 24 and this is attractive to companies. All the companies I spoke to said that because they won't get funding for me, they won't take me on. They will only consider an apprentice below 24 or a fully qualified spark.
I have pointed out that I have paid in full for myself to do the course and will continue to do so, but nobody wants to know. I have also pointed out that I have achieved a Distinction in every exam so far, and all of my practical assessments.
I'm very sad about this, as I'm now 2 grand down the line, more able and reliable than the other lads on the course, and yet they're grabbing apprenticeships left right and centre purely because they're young. Honestly, some of these lads still don't know how to select an appropriate cable and yet in three months they'll be running about in peoples homes.
So... what on earth do I do? Has anyone been in my position and can anyone tell me who I may approach. I just feel I have a lot to offer and nobody wants to give me a chance. It rather makes a mockery of all these 'change your career now' ads on tv!
Any advice greatly appreciated.
A very miserable Victor.
