If you're thinking about learning a trade with Access Training, you might be wondering if the courses we offer are too good to be true. Is Access Training really a legitimate training option for those looking to learn new skills and become qualified tradespeople?

We'll spare you the suspense: the short answer is a resounding YES!

For the longer answer, keep reading.

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AI has become a much debated topic over the past few months, with many people feeling concerned about the impact that AI will have on them and their job security. Whilst many industries are feeling the pressure of job uncertainty because of AI, the plumbing industry is not. 

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Losing your job can be a real punch to the gut, but don't worry, there are always other paths to explore. Think of it as a chance to learn new skills, get a fresh start, and rekindle your career with the right support. At Access Training, we are here to guide you every step of the way, especially if you're thinking about switching to the trades after getting laid off.

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The UK's job market for skilled electricians is on the rise. With a predicted shortage of 104,000 electricians by 2032 and average salaries soaring above £39,000, choosing a career in this field is like flipping the switch on your long-term financial security.

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If you're thinking about a career in the trades in the UK, you'll likely need some qualifications to get your foot in the door. But why are qualifications so important? And what kind of qualifications do you need?

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1. Update your CV and online profiles.
2. Network with other plumbers and professionals in the industry.
3. Speak to a recruitment specialist. 
4. Be prepared to interview.
5. Consider specialising in a particular area of plumbing.
6. Stay up-to-date on the latest plumbing codes and regulations.
7. Get involved in your local plumbing community.
8. Apply for a paid apprenticeship.
9. Never stop learning.

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From Solicitor to Plumber: How People Are Retraining to Cope During the Coronavirus Pandemic

ITV News, 24th September 2020

Access Training was recently featured on a special edition of ITV's Tonight. Titled 'Can We Save Our Jobs?' and presented by Robert Peston, the programme highlighted the trials and tribulations that people have endured while on furlough during the coronavirus pandemic: the stress of having no work, the strain of having to provide for your family, and the hopelessness of a jobless future.

But it's not all doom and gloom.

"Anybody who's lost their job... my advice is don't be afraid. With hard work and the right training... you can do anything that you want."

Access Training tutor Jimmy Adkins, speaking to ITV's Robert Peston

The programme featured several Access Training students - people from a variety of backgrounds who felt the economic impact of the pandemic and made the wise decision to pursue a career in the trade industry. Chefs have become gas engineers, cab drivers have taken up plumbing, and even solicitors are jumping on the bandwagon.

Talking to Peston, our gas tutor Jimmy Adkins gives an excellent summary of the situation, detailing the enormous spike in demand for construction courses that followed the COVID-19 crisis:

"It went absolutely crazy. Guys have come from all sorts of backgrounds - taxi drivers, entertainment, even to the point where I've had some solicitors because they're unsure of whether they're ever going to go back to working in the office."

Access Training tutor Jimmy Adkins

One of our students, Chris Kruger, was also interviewed for the programme. Chris recently left his job as a chef, citing job uncertainty as the main reason for this decision. He speaks of the "very stressful and very worrying" threat to his job, and indeed the whole catering industry:

"Not knowing whether things were going to go back to normal, whether I would still have a job, the situation at home - expecting a baby and so forth - and my partner also being in the hospitality industry... both of us sitting on furlough, you can imagine the stress."

Access Training student Chris Kruger

ITV Tonight: Can We Save Our Jobs?

Chris very wisely decided that retraining as a plumber would secure his young family's future in these increasingly unsettling and unstable times. Instead of sitting back and letting everything crumble around him, Chris took it upon himself to prepare for the future: "I just said, no, I need to utilise this time to study."

If Chris can do it, so can you. The furlough scheme has now ended, but the pandemic is ongoing and there is still a lot of uncertainty about the future - especially in sectors like entertainment and hospitality, which were hit especially hard by Covid and which will bear the brunt of any future lockdowns.

The Access Training students who appeared on ITV's Tonight programme took the right steps at the right time to become qualified tradespeople. They invested in their careers, and made the choice to be proactive and determined.

Access Training can be your stepping stone to a secure and fulfilling career; the safety net you need in these unforgiving times.

Demand is high, and the time is now. Take the initiative today - get in touch now to speak to a course advisor.

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Learn your trade. Get qualified. Make it happen.