The health and wellbeing of HSBC’s work experience participants, employees and customers is its primary aim. However, due to the uncertainty of COVID-19 it is unfortunately unable to continue with the work experience programme in 2020.
While it’s a decision which has not been taken lightly, HSBC feel it is the responsible and correct thing to do in the circumstances. The Work Experience 2021 programme is being worked towards re-opening in November this year and is able to accessed and applied at: https://www.hsbc.com/careers/students-and-graduates/student-opportunities/uk-work-experience-programme
HSBC has provided links to external resources, tips and tricks for the lockdown and careers advice which can assist young people in these unpredictable times to ensure that all the support possible is being made available.
Wellbeing
HSBC believe in managing your wellbeing, making the most of your time and utilising the information/support that is available.
Here are some simple tips to ‘protect your mental health’, prepared by students on the HSCB graduate programme;
- Limit Screen Time – limit the amount of time you spend reading or watching things which aren’t making you feel better. Perhaps decide on a specific time to check in with the news.
- Avoid Misinformation – stay informed by sticking to trusted sources of information such as government and NHS websites.
- Stay Connected – set up video-calls and virtual coffee with friend and family.
- Avoid burnout – it is important to have down time. Mind recommends continuing to access nature and sunlight where possible. Do exercise, eat well and stay hydrated.
- Keep Active – use your one daily outdoor activity to enjoy some fresh air (adhering to government guidelines).
- Stay focused – switch off distraction and, where possible, work on to-do list that matters most to you now.
Typical activities when there is extra time on your hands;
- Baking and cooking
- Watch a movie/TV series
- Read a book
- Exercise
- Have a clear out/organise your room/books
- Get creative – drawing, arts and crafts
- Studying/self-education
- Spending time with family
- Yoga/meditation
- Learn new language (apps like Duo-Lingo and Babel can help)
Or research on different career options, apprenticeships, universities or other vocational qualifications, preparing your CV, interview tips and plan ahead…
Keeping informed on education:
Explore how the GCSE, A-Level or equivalent grading will be carried out this year?
https://www.gov.uk/government/...
https://www.gov.uk/government/...
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/938...
https://gov.wales/examinations-and-assessments-coronavirus
FE Weekly, DfE reveals how it will provide grades for GCSE, A-Level or equivalent students this summer: https://feweek.co.uk/2020/03/23/dfe-reveals-how-it-will-provide-grades-for-a-level-and-gcse-students-this-summer/
Universities and Colleges Admissions Service:
Finishing GCSEs or Nationals? Find out your options and start planning your next steps:
https://www.ucas.com/further-education/post-16-qualifications/post-16-qualifications-you-can-take
https://www.ucas.com/ucas/after-gcses/find-career-ideas/explore-jobs
Sign up for regular updates and explore your options: https://web.ucas.com/ug-signup
Apprenticeships and what they may mean…
Apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity to build a career path in various sectors, combining work-based learning with an industry relevant qualification. This means young people get essential hands-on work experience while also earning a real salary as well as obtaining a formally recognised qualification. Apprenticeships can be taken in almost every industry and can take place anywhere from huge global organisations to small family businesses.
HSBC offer their own apprenticeships at the bank which allow students to combine work and study, with the opportunity to work towards a formal qualification with LIBF (London Institute of Banking & Finance), an alternative to A-levels. More information can be found by visiting the following website: www.hsbc.com/ukapprenticeships
Pathway CTM are offering free Pre-Employment Programme to all students aged 15-18 across the UK.
Joining the programme includes gaining access to their weekly newsletters plus full information on all the digital events that are being hosted (informative Workshops covering everything from How to Create a CV; Preparing for a Video Interview; Work Experience; LinkedIn Masterclass, etc.), student inbox and 1-2-1 telephone coaching.
Many of the events are co-hosted by Employer Network, covering various sectors, for e.g. finance, tech, creative, health & social care, law, construction and many more. The programme helps students become job ready, and ensures that all the information and support for all career paths are available. Daily webinars also able to be signed up via: https://pathwayctm.com/webinar-and-virtual-event-sign-up/
Exploring career guidance - Scotland
For information, guidance and advice on careers, apprenticeships and pathways in Scotland visit https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/. This includes how to build a CV, advice on interviews, help exploring different job roles including pathways on how to start these and apprenticeship information.
Some inspirational quotes that HSBC graduates have put together to motivate their colleagues.
“The most efficient way to live reasonably is every morning to make a plan of one’s day and every night to examine the results obtained” (Alexis Carrel) – Hit the ground running by planning out your day the night before. Prioritize each task and block out time in your weekly agenda and stick to your schedule.
“Be happy in the moment, that’s enough. Each moment is all we need, not more.” (Mother Teresa) – Try to find contentment in what you do. Try not to think about how you’ve done in the past or what you expect to happen in the future. Simply be happy doing your best in the present moment and you will always be happy, regardless of the outcome.
“Try to learn something about everything and everything about something” (Thomas Huxley) – Learn something new this week. Whether it be reading a new book or listening to a podcast, find interest in something outside of your normal routine.
