School leavers hunting for their first step on the career ladder should look no further than t2 Skills.

The Newport-based training provider offers a five-week Foundation Modern Apprenticeship training course to help young people make the successful transition between school and full-time employment. And school-leavers who sign up for the course with t2 Skills get paid from day one.

The training programme will equip each candidate with a set of core skills, from IT, communication and interpersonal skills through to CV writing and interview techniques. As part of the course, trainees can access Learn Direct and achieve qualifications in Internet Technology or the ECDL (European Community Driving Licence) that will enable them to use any office-based software package. At the end of the course, t2 Skills finds each candidate a work-based placement and closely monitors their progress, advising on further training qualifications to further their development.

Rob Marr, managing director of t2 Skills, said: "Foundation Modern Apprenticeships are a great way to prepare those who have just left school for the world of work. We give them all the skills they need to handle the workplace environment, so it does not come as a complete shock to them when they start.

"When the trainee is ready, we find them a work-based placement so that they gain that all-important work experience. Many of our trainees often find that they really enjoy their placements and are often taken on as a permanent member of staff.

"Importantly, we offer help and support throughout the whole process, helping each of our candidates feel confident about starting work and providing advice and mentoring once they do."

For further information about the Foundation Modern Apprenticeship, please contact Mike Ross on 01633 212133.