MANY young people who have just got their GCSE results will suddenly be faced with some stark choices regarding their future.

For most young people the traditional decisions revolve around going to college, sixth form or university or going straight into a low-paid job, but there is another increasingly popular choice.

Vocational training gives teenagers the chance to work, learn and earn at the same time, as they build up a list of relevant qualifications.

For those who want to start forging successful careers as soon as they leave school, there are apprenticeships and national vocational qualifications.

Crucially, vocational training providers can offer young people the chance to continue studying and to gain new qualifications while earning.

Apprenticeships offer a fantastic range of training in 80 different sectors of industry, covering a vast range of subjects from accounting and animal care to construction and retail.

There are two types of apprenticeships. Foundation modern apprenticeships are aimed at 16-18-year-olds, usually last at least a year and rewards successful learners with a national vocational qualification at level 2, key skills and, in most cases, a technical certificate.

The key skills include communication, information technology and working with others.

Advanced modern apprenticeships are similar but usually last at least two years and cater for over 18s who have either completed a FMA or have comparable experience and qualifications.

AMA apprentices work towards a national vocational qualification at Level 3, key skills and a technical certificate.

Both apprenticeships are based on individual work performance and learners are assessed on their practical skills at work.

Employers know how valuable on-the-job training is and welcome apprenticeships, valuing the skills and knowledge attained through a structured learning programme.

Learners are often placed within different organisations while they study for their qualifications, giving the individuals the chance to put their training into practice.

Vocational training gives the opportunity to try different sectors before finding out what suits them best.

For more information, go to www.apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000 150600.