Start your career in retail

Bath’s biggest shopping centre is calling for young people in the city to take the first step in their retail careers by registering for its free training programme - Bright Lights Starting Out in Retail. The five-week programme starts on Monday and will give young people in Bath access to high quality training, including advice from industry experts, support with interviews and CV writing, as well as a personal mentor. They will also gain valuable onthe-job experience by spending time at some of Southgate’s biggest brands. All those who complete the training will receive formal qualifications, including BTEC Level 1 Retail Knowledge, which will be presented to them at a celebration event on Friday November 9. Dianne Wainwright, head of operations at The Source Skills Academy, said the free training programme would be a great chance for young people in Bath to gain nationally recognised qualifications, as well as first-hand experience working with some of the UK’S biggest retail brands. She said: “So far, more than 330 people have progressed through our Bright Lights Starting Out programme, with almost 70 per cent moving on to paid employment following their training. “It’s a great opportunity for young people in the area.” Guy Henderson, centre manager at Southgate, said: “This programme could have a real impact on the lives of young people in our community and can help them to discover their potential and gain valuable experience about what it’s like to work in a fast-paced retail environment.” For more information email brightlights@thesourceacademy.co.uk or call 0114 263 5619.