Everyone Is Talking About Tuition Fees But What About Those Who Aren’t Going To University?

Sept. 6, 2011 - PRLog -- For one reason or another, half of all young people in the UK will not go to university, so what options are available for them once they have left education? With one in five young people out of work, they will be facing a competitive job market and will be looking for innovative ways to get work experience.

Recent research from Dr Andrew Rothwell from DeMontford University revealed that experiential learning, such as volunteering abroad, can boost young people’s job prospects and gain skills that employers are looking for. The survey of more than 400 young people aged 17 to 24 taking part in a Raleigh International expedition discovered that 95 per cent are now more supportive, co-operative and helpful team players and 77 per cent agree or strongly agree that they are now able to plan and lead group projects.

The survey also revealed that 71 per cent of Raleigh International volunteers don’t think there could be any better work experience at their time of life than Raleigh International. The youth and sustainable development charity is urging young people to take the time to think about their options available to them once they leave school.

David Morton, 19, from Knightswood in Glasgow left school last year and didn’t know what to do. He heard about Raleigh International through a friend and went to Costa Rica in July 2010. He said: “During the expedition, the whole point is to work as a team and pull each other through every moment. No matter how hard the challenge, you get it done. Through this, I have learnt that I can be a team leader and I cope very well when there is a difficult situation to get through.” David is now an apprentice electrician and says his time overseas with Raleigh International helped his confidence: “Now I’m a lot more confident and happy to speak to other people, which really helps when working on building sites and with others.”

Akiem Millar 21, from London, was at College studying electrical engineering and youth work before he joined Raleigh International. He’s now doing an electrical apprenticeship with network rail. He said: “You start building the skills as soon as you call up Raleigh International. For example, communication skills, working to a deadline, fundraising, writing. I would say to other young people to get involved. Whatever’s going on in your life can wait. It will still be there when you get back. Raleigh International gives you more options in life. For me, it gave me something concrete to offer an employer. When you go for an interview it’s something they can grab hold of and see for what it is. Plus, it’s the most fun you will ever have.”

Stacey Adams, Raleigh International’s CEO commented: “Overseas travel is an appealing option for many young people but at Raleigh we encourage young people to make constructive use of their time abroad. During a 10 week expedition, Raleigh volunteers will work on a variety of projects with people from all different backgrounds – through this, they can expect to gain highly valued skills such as teamwork, communication and decision-making, as well as a boost in confidence.”

Applications for autumn have now drawn to a close but young people are advised to apply as soon as possible if they want to join an expedition in spring 2012. Bursaries are available for young people who would find the fundraising a challenge too far. For more information visit http://www.raleighinternational.org.