24+ Archives | GMACS Inspire, Explore, Apply Tue, 12 May 2026 13:06:38 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://gmacs.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png 24+ Archives | GMACS 32 32 How a Career in the Construction and Green Economy Gateway Could Help Save the World https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/how-a-career-in-the-construction-and-green-economy-gateway-could-help-save-the-world/ Sun, 26 Apr 2026 19:45:11 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=363577 The post How a Career in the Construction and Green Economy Gateway Could Help Save the World appeared first on GMACS.

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How a Career in the Construction and Green Economy Gateway Could Help Save the World

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Want a job that could help save the planet? Well, a job in the Construction and Green Economy gateway could be for you. We hear a lot about construction careers; however, the term ‘green sector’ is newer. In this article, we’ll explore jobs from the green sector as well as the broader Construction and Green Economy gateway.

So, what is the green sector?

Having a job in the green sector means you work with the environment. The emphasis is on the word green, as it refers to anything environmental.

There are lots of different jobs in this field. They range from those who work practical roles, like a park ranger, to those who work in offices, like policy makers or data analysts. As long as it’s to do with the environment, it’s a green job.

Why should I aspire to work in the green sector?

A green career means you’ll be playing your part in a global effort to fight against climate change. It can be very rewarding knowing that the work that you do has such a positive impact.

After more information about what the climate crisis is? Check out this blog on Curriculum for Life for more.

Making a difference in Greater Manchester

Here in Greater Manchester, we’re trying to reverse the impact of climate change, and one way we’re doing that is by building a workforce.

That means the Construction and Green Sector is growing, so there are lots of opportunities to kickstart your career in the sector. More jobs = more opportunities.

Here are some pathways you could consider if you want to work in the Construction and Green Economy gateway.

T Levels

T Levels are a great way to study and gain practical work experience. If you’re wondering what kind of T Levels are available within Greater Manchester that are related to Construction and the Green Economy, we’ve got you covered!

Here are some courses that you could explore:

  • Design Surveying and Planning – this could lead to a career as an Architect or Project Manager
  • Building Services Engineering for Construction – for a career as a Heating and Ventilation Engineer or Electrician
  • Agriculture, Land Management and Production – this course could lead to a job as a Tree Surgeon or as a Farmer

It’s important to remember that there are many jobs in Construction and the Green Economy that you wouldn’t necessarily think of when considering a career in the sector.

Your job role might require you to study a specific course, but then later in your career, you might use those skills in another sector. For example, you could study finance and become an accountant but then work for an environmental company. This would count as a green job too! It’s always good to keep your options open.

Apprenticeships

Learning on the job is another way to boost your skills and get real life experience of the industry you want to work in. The construction and green economy have a lot of vocational roles available, and apprenticeships are great way to get your start!

A tram track in GM covered with grass between the lines and Manchester's skyline in the background

Considering an apprenticeship in Manchester?

If you’re looking for some job options in construction and the green economy, here are some of the roles that you can do an apprenticeship in:

  • Carpenter
  • Bricklayer
  • Joiner
  • Plumber
  • Engineering Technician
  • Landscaper

Apprenticeships offer you the chance to not only learn skills in your chosen specialised field, but develop the ‘soft’ skills that employers love.

Want to learn more about this? Check out our blog on the skills you can develop from an apprenticeship for more.

Want to discover more about the Construction and Green Economy?

If you’re wondering what other pathways are available within this sector, we have just the right tool for you. Explore the Construction and Green Economy gateway on Beeline.

Your dream career is a click away!

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What Could I Do With My Qualification? Jobs You May Not Have Explored: Maths   https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/what-could-i-do-with-my-qualification-jobs-you-may-not-have-explored-maths/ Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:21:28 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=363095 The post What Could I Do With My Qualification? Jobs You May Not Have Explored: Maths   appeared first on GMACS.

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What Could I Do With My Qualification? Jobs You May Not Have Explored: Maths  

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Love a subject in school, but you’re unsure what a career in the field would look like? You think that you’d thrive in the sector, but don’t know what job role you could do? Well, we’ve got you covered. This blog is a part of our series that focuses on different subjects, and what job roles you could pursue with a qualification in the topic. If maths isn’t for you, check out our other blogs on a range of different subjects, including art and design, history and music.

What could I do with a maths qualification?

People with strong mathematical skills are assets to many organisations. Understanding how numbers work, how to manage them and how to use them to analyse a situation or even predict the future, when done right, can help any individual or business thrive.  Think you might be the person that could do that? We’ve picked three careers that will allow you to use your maths skills every day.

A chalkboard with white maths equations.
A selection of plastic numbers in a range of colours

Actuary

As an actuary, your job is to analyse numbers, normally in the form of data. You’ll then determine future risks to organisations or individuals. As part of this role, you’d also consider how future events could impact on people financially. Once you establish what these could be, it’s your role to try to prepare for this, and you’d do this by creating a plan. Your work is there to support people and organisations, so they can be assured they’re making informed decisions to protect themselves or their businesses.

There are multiple routes to becoming an actuary. Starting with the University route, you could do a degree in a maths-related subject first. Perhaps in maths itself, or accounting, economics or something similar. Which would put you in a great position to apply for graduate schemes. If an academic pathway is for you, have a look at your options and what actuary graduate programmes are asking for. It will give you an idea of what they’re looking for.

If you’d prefer to immerse yourself in the world of work as you learn, there are also apprenticeship routes to the role. The apprenticeships begin at level 4 and could be titled Actuary Technician or something similar. There are also options to do degree apprenticeships to become an Actuary. Not sure how apprenticeships work? Check out our blog on technical courses to get the information you need.

Lastly, there’s the work experience route. You might be studying or working in a relevant field and aspire to change pathways. If you have experience that an employer thinks are transferable, you could cross over into the field. Although if you did want more concrete experience in the field, you might want to research opportunities that will let you volunteer or give you access to people working in the field who can advise you further.

Statistician

Another data role! Data is appreciated in most organisations. By looking at the facts and figures, it allows individuals or organisations to improve their work. This is why data-related roles are so sought after.  As a statistician, this job is less about predicting and more about dealing with the present, though there is still a bit of prediction too. This job does come under different titles, so it might be called a statistics analyst or a statistics officer. The process of collecting data can be lengthy, and a statistician is present for a lot of that journey.  You’ll arrange ways to collect data, through experiments and or using certain resources. It’s then your job to interpret the data and communicate the findings to your team or clients. Statistics use their mathematical skills to understand the data and use their findings to help others.

To pursue this route, it’s expected that you have some training or have completed a learning programme to work as a statistician.  Suppose you aspire to go to university, by choosing a course in maths, statistics or economics. You could then be considered for a graduate scheme or entry-level roles. However, other courses can provide you with the same knowledge.

The apprenticeship route is an option to become a statistician, and this can be done at a degree level too. The apprenticeship can sometimes be more personalised to the industry you want to go into as a statistician, so do your research. Especially if you’d prefer a course that allows you more flexibility. Although if you’d prefer to learn on the job, by choosing a T Level in Digital Data Analytics, the industry placement may give you the experience you need to apply for entry-level roles as soon as you leave education. To learn more about industry placements and their benefits, check out our blog on game-changing industry placements

Other ways to gain experience are through volunteering or in related job roles. Although even with this experience, some employers may still request a relevant qualification.  Make sure you do your homework!

Software developer

This one is for the math and digital lovers out there.  As a software developer, you’ll be responsible for creating and testing digital services. The software you’ll build and/or manage could be things like apps, operating systems for workplaces or even a video game.  Software developers are some of the people who made it possible for you to be reading this blog right now! Where does maths come into it? Well, to understand the programmes that they use to design and maintain software, a lot of the language is mathematical. This is called code.

So, now you can see why having strong maths skills is so important to being a software developer.  Routes to becoming a software developer vary. You could pursue the university route, studying maths, although there are more specific courses such as software development or computer science. From there, you could do a graduate training scheme, or straight into employment.

There’s also the apprenticeship route. These start from level 3 and are usually titled something along the lines of ‘software development technician’ or ‘digital and technology’. They begin from level 3, and you can go on to do degree apprenticeships.

Want to start developing your digital skills? Our blog on upskilling digital skills can help you develop your skills and enhance your CV.

person coding on one laptop, with another laptop left with tabs open on the other side of the desk.

What more is out there?

As we mentioned earlier, maths skills are an asset to many organisations. There are plenty of jobs roles that exist that have maths incorporated into them. And there are lots of employers who you wouldn’t normally associate with maths, but need people with maths skills to help them run their businesses efficiently. 

Your skills can be an asset!

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National Careers Week 2026: Celebrating Our Industrial Past – How You Can Continue Greater Manchester’s Story With a Career in Engineering and Manufacturing https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/national-careers-week-2026-celebrating-our-industrial-past-how-you-can-continue-greater-manchesters-story-with-a-career-in-engineering-and-manufacturing/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:53:56 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=363462 The post National Careers Week 2026: Celebrating Our Industrial Past – How You Can Continue Greater Manchester’s Story With a Career in Engineering and Manufacturing appeared first on GMACS.

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National Careers Week 2026: Celebrating Our Industrial Past – How You Can Continue Greater Manchester’s Story With a Career in Engineering and Manufacturing

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Something many people don’t realise about Greater Manchester is that it wasn’t just important during the Industrial Revolution, it was actually the first industrial city in the world!

Those famous worker bees you see across the city? These are a symbol of the thousands of Mancunians that worked hard during the Industrial Revolution. They all came together to make the city what it is now.

What’s Greater Manchester’s industrial story?

Fast-forward to today, Greater Manchester has transformed into a city region full of advanced engineering, cutting-edge manufacturing and new technology that is shaping the future.

The region produces aerospace components, medicines, textiles, robotics, and yes even the cereal in your cupboard!

It’s also where many major brands call home, like Kellogg’s, Siemens, Heinz and THG. These are just some of the companies based in Greater Manchester, companies that are known across the world.

But behind these massive brands is a huge community of skilled people keeping everything moving, with approximately 8-9% of the population of region working in manufacturing as of 2025. That means, there’s lots of jobs to be had!

How could you fit in?

If you enjoy problem-solving, building and fixing things, understanding how the world works, or studying STEM or design subjects, then manufacturing could be the path for you.

There are so many different roles that exist in the world on manufacturing, it all depends on what you’d like to do.

Some roles that we’ve highlighted are:

  • Production designers, who design how products work
  • Machine operators, who keep machines running safely
  • Manufacturing engineers, who help to build and fix machines

Perhaps you know that you want to work in manufacturing, but you’re not sure what job you’d like to do just yet. If that is the case, researching routes into the industry is a great place to start.

Black and white aerial shot of the area around St Peters Square in Manchester

What educational options do I choose if I want a career in Manufacturing?

There are so many ways to get your career in manufacturing started. Technical educational courses are a particularly popular way to get started.

Unsure of what technical education is? Check out our blog on technical education to get informed.

If doing a T Level interests you, a course that could help start a career in manufacturing is Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing.

It’s 2-year program that offers you the opportunity to cover a wide range of different topics in engineering and manufacturing and provides you with a 45-day placement to gain industry experience.

Maybe an apprenticeship is something you’ve considered. The option to earn while you learn and gain real life experience can be really useful to someone beginning their career.  The appeal of an apprenticeship is that it can be specific to a certain role or multi-disciplinary.

Whether you want to train in a particular role like Mechanical Fitter or Welder, or you’d rather keep your options broader and opt for a course that covers a range of engineering or manufacturing skills, there a plenty of different options.

The best thing about these courses is that they give you to skills to continue your development in the workplace or possibly carry on your educational journey. The choice is yours.

Check out our T Levels and Apprenticeships pages to discover more. You’ll find inspiration for your future career and how technical education can get you there.

Greater Manchester’s industrial future

The industrial story of Greater Manchester continues to this day.

As a constantly evolving industry, the world of engineering and manufacturing is always in need of fresh talent who can bring something new. Maybe this is you?

To be a part of Greater Manchester’s Industrial Future, use Beeline to explore the Engineering and Manufacturing gateway.

The post National Careers Week 2026: Celebrating Our Industrial Past – How You Can Continue Greater Manchester’s Story With a Career in Engineering and Manufacturing appeared first on GMACS.

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National Apprenticeship Week 2026: The Skills You Can Develop From an Apprenticeship That Employers Will Love https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/national-apprenticeship-week-2026-the-skills-you-can-develop-from-an-apprenticeship-that-employers-will-love/ Wed, 04 Feb 2026 21:25:30 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=363335 The post National Apprenticeship Week 2026: The Skills You Can Develop From an Apprenticeship That Employers Will Love appeared first on GMACS.

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National Apprenticeship Week 2026: The Skills You Can Develop From an Apprenticeship That Employers Will Love

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Many people choose to do an apprenticeship because it gives them the opportunity learn the technical skills whilst on the job as well as gaining a qualification in their chosen field.

But apprenticeships don’t just lead to qualifications and industry specific skills, they also build soft skills that employers love to see.

What are soft skills?

Soft skills are skills that can be adapted to any role and are even transferrable to everyday life. Having a strong set of skills is helpful as it makes it easier for you to adapt to new situations and to build stronger relationships with others.

Although there is a lot of value in having strong technical skills or being academic, soft skills can be as equally powerful. Having soft skills does not just make you a more likeable person, but a more respected and professional person in the eyes of others.

So, what are these soft skills? Read on to find out more.

Communication skills

We use our communication skills almost every day but it’s important to refine our communication skills to adapt to the workplace. This does not mean we have to change who we are, just that we need to use our skills to communicate clearly with others.

How do apprentices develop this skill?

As a part of your role, you’ll almost certainly have to use your communication skills one way or another.

It might be common for your team to have team meetings. This is a great place to develop your ability to speak in front of others, whether you are contributing to a conversation or even presenting.

A key factor of learning is the ability to listen. This is also a great communication tool. Being present and participating in a lesson by listening will help your progression.

Being able to build a good rapport quickly with others is also helpful. As an apprentice you’ll have the opportunity to build relationships with people in different roles and from different backgrounds. Being able to effectively communicate with fellow team members, people from other departments or collaborating businesses, as well as clients or customers will not only create a more harmonious work life for you, but for others.

A young man in a suit pointing at information on a bulletin board

Why do employers love this skill?

Good communication builds trust. When apprentices learn to communicate professionally it can cement their reputation as an approachable and confident person within the workplace, but these skills will also benefit them if they choose to move on.

Teamwork

Working well within a team can be attributed to many things, but generally it means being dependable, respectful of others and eager to contribute.

How do apprentices develop this skill?

As an apprentice, you are going to be learning from industry professionals. This means you’ll be working within a team. It might be a small team, or there may be so many people that you lose count.

This means you’ll be working with people who are at different levels in their career or may work in a different job role to you completely. But what matters is that you work together effectively and can identify each other’s strengths and capabilities so you can achieve a shared goal.

Having the opportunity to experience the workplace will also allow you to learn workplace etiquette. This can be as important as participating in shared work projects.

Every workplace has different rules and expectations. When you have experience working in those environments as apprentices do, that can help you navigate new spaces a lot easier as you have a rough idea of what to expect.

Why do employers love this skill?

People who have done apprenticeships have learned that success at work is not always from individual effort. Effective teamwork has helped them achieve their goals.

Bering able to prove to a future employer that you can work in a team will help them visualise where you might be able to fit into their organisation.

A young man in an office on a zoom call

Problem solving skills

A problem at work could be a range of different things. This might mean missing deadlines, extra work coming in last minute, or something being more difficult than it first looked. These things might not be your fault, but being able to make plans to solve these kinds of workplace problems is a great skill to develop.

How do apprentices develop this skill?

We’re all accustomed to having to deal with problems, but apprentices are in a privileged position as usually they’re learning from the best.

As an apprentice, there’s a high chance you might have lots of opportunities to shadow other employees. Being able to watch how they manage problems is a very insightful experience and will inform your ability to manage similar situations.

As most apprentices are entry level roles, you’ll be responsible for tasks that you have never done before. Although we try and avoid it, making mistakes is a part of working. But we learn from our mistakes, and it contributes to our ability to spot possible issues or not repeat errors we’ve made in the past. It can even help us learn how to handle a situation that hasn’t gone to plan.

Why do employers love this skill?

Apprentices have experienced things going wrong, whether that’s to do with their own work or by watching their team deal with an issue.

However, as a result they can identify issues and then plan to solve them. This skill can be a great help to an employer.

Organisation and time keeping

Being able to plan, manage your tasks and keep to deadlines is a useful way to work efficiently and keep your stress levels down.

How do apprenticeships develop this skill?

As an apprentice, whether your tasks are completed individually or within a group, you’ll have to work towards a deadline. Learning how to organise your schedule and work plan to meet deadlines is an important skill.

As part of an apprenticeship, you are also expected to work and to dedicate time to your studies. This experience teaches an apprentice how to balance their tasks. What needs to be practised and how much time they need so they can complete everything.

Lastly, whether you’re heading to work or attending college for your learning days, you need to manage your time keeping. It can be as simple as making sure you leave enough time to get to work on time in the morning. Apprentices quickly find out that they are the ones accountable for organising themselves.

Why do employers love this skill?

Employees who manage their time well and who are organised are seen as more reliable. Knowing that your employee will meet the deadlines that you set, or turn up to meetings on time, is reassuring to an employer.

Strong soft skills + technical skills = the perfect candidate

Apprenticeships create confident, skilled, and adaptable employees.

Being able to communicate well can land you the job when you go for an interview, showing that you’re a problem solver could prove you’re responsible and lead to a promotion, being a good team player in your old job has convinced someone to start that business with you. The list is endless.

The combination of soft skills and technical experience makes apprentices highly attractive to employers, not just now, but throughout their careers.

Thinking about doing an apprenticeship? Check out the GMACS apprenticeship search to find out what’s out there.

The post National Apprenticeship Week 2026: The Skills You Can Develop From an Apprenticeship That Employers Will Love appeared first on GMACS.

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National Apprenticeship Week 2026: What Is a Degree Apprenticeship, and How Do I Get on to One? https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/national-apprenticeship-week-2026-what-is-a-degree-apprenticeship-and-how-do-i-get-on-to-one/ Wed, 04 Feb 2026 21:02:51 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=363244 The post National Apprenticeship Week 2026: What Is a Degree Apprenticeship, and How Do I Get on to One? appeared first on GMACS.

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National Apprenticeship Week 2026: What Is a Degree Apprenticeship, and How Do I Get on to One?

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A degree apprenticeship is where you work and study to achieve a degree in a certain field. This means you’ll be working in a job where the work that you do contributes to the running of a business or organisation, however you’ll be also be spending some of that time learning at a university and focusing on your studies.

They offer you the opportunity to have an alternative university experience, one that allows you the practical work experience as well as a university education.

This blog breaks down what degree apprenticeships involve, the benefits they offer, and how to apply for one.

Read on for more!

So, what is a degree apprenticeship?

A degree apprenticeship is a programme that combines paid work with university study. As an apprentice at this level, you’ll be working towards a Bachelor’s (Level 6) or Master’s degree (Level 7).

How do they work?

>As a degree apprentice, you’ll be employed in your workplace like any other member of staff. You’ll be paid and you are entitled to holiday leave, sickness and other possible benefits they might offer.

But, as an apprentice at any level, 20% of your time in work per week is dedicated to your studies. This can look different depending on your role.  It could involve attending university once a week, or a day focusing on completing university work. Alternatively, you might study on block release, where you spend a week or longer at university.

This something you’ll be able to establish with your employers and course providers once you’ve secured a role.

a man and a woman sitting staring at a computer screen

Why would you choose to do a degree apprenticeship?

There are many reasons why people choose to go to university, but why would you choose to do a degree apprenticeship as opposed to the more traditional route of studying full time?

One of the biggest appeals of doing a degree apprenticeship is that you’ll be able to earn while you learn. Working full-time will pay you a salary from your employer, and because your tuition fees are paid by your employer (or in some circumstances through government funding) you are not responsible for funding your studies. So, when you finish your degree, you’re not left with a large student loan.

Another reason that draws people to doing a degree apprenticeship is the multiple opportunities to develop your skillset. As an employee, you’ll have the opportunity to gain practical skills within your chosen industry, which are highly valued by employers. But you’ll also have the chance to work alongside professionals which is a great way to network and learn from experienced individuals.

To add to those skills, you’re also attending university and dedicating time to the academic side of your field. This gives you a deep knowledge of your field from your studies, as well as industry experience. This should give you lots of confidence to move forward with the next steps of your career!

a hand holding a phone displaying google

How to find and apply for degree apprenticeships?

You can do a degree apprenticeships within many different industries, but where do you find the opportunities?

Before you begin your job search, it’s likely you have an idea of what industry you’d like work and study in. Researching the different opportunities is a great way to start the process and to find specific roles you’d like to apply for.

As degree apprenticeships aren’t exactly like applying for a job, university websites like UCAS advertise programs you can apply for, the same way you’d apply to be a full-time student.

Alternatively, there’s sites like the Gov.uk apprenticeship search or other dedicated apprenticeships sites that advertise what apprenticeship roles are available, and you can usually filter these searches by region or apprenticeship level.

Because of the working element of a degree apprenticeship, these roles can also be advertised on employment websites that you’d use for other jobs.

Perhaps you’re already aware of some organisations you’d like to work for. If this is the case, it’s worth checking their websites as not all companies advertise their training programs on employment sites.

It’s important to keep an open mind when searching for a degree apprenticeship. Do lots of research, attend relevant events and careers fairs and remember that you need to check for new job listings regularly.

Am I eligible?

Every course is different, but all these jobs will advertise what entry requirements they have. For degree apprenticeships, you need to check that you’re applying for the program that’s right for you.

At a minimum, it’s likely that they’ll be searching for candidates who would also be eligible for full-time study at degree level.

Tips for a strong application

As we’ve already covered, applying to do a degree apprenticeship is like applying for a job, so that application process is similar.

As you would when applying for a job role, you need a CV ready that gives a good presentation of your skills and experience. It’s a good idea to also have a cover letter that demonstrates who you are. These can be adapted to each job role you apply for.

Alternatively, you might need to fill in an application and write a personal statement – you could adapt this from your cover letter!

Either way, it’s important to demonstrate who you are when making these applications. You need to make references to your achievements, prove that you’re passionate about the field you wish to work in and why you want the role in question.

Looking for further support? Check out our Curriculum for Life blog on how can I land my apprenticeship or job.

Could a degree apprenticeship be right for you?

Degree apprenticeships are a great choice if you want to kickstart your career as you learn.

The experience of working and studying at the same time can give you a clearer picture of what you’d like your future career might look like and will also help you morph into a knowledgeable and experienced professional in your chosen field.

The post National Apprenticeship Week 2026: What Is a Degree Apprenticeship, and How Do I Get on to One? appeared first on GMACS.

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Advice on How To Start Your Small Business From the Young People Doing It https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/advice-on-how-to-start-your-small-business-from-the-young-people-doing-it/ Thu, 18 Dec 2025 09:41:06 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=363039 The post Advice on How To Start Your Small Business From the Young People Doing It appeared first on GMACS.

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Advice on How To Start Your Small Business From the Young People Doing It

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As it was recently Small Business Saturday, it got us thinking about what being a young entrepreneur in Greater Manchester feels like.

Starting your own business can feel like a scary prospect, especially if you don’t have anyone in your life that works as a freelancer or runs a business of their own.

Knowing where to start and what to expect can feel the one of the biggest obstacles to starting your own business.

That’s why we’re talking to young entrepreneurs in Greater Manchester who have pursued their passions on their own terms, and are now giving advice to the next generation of future business owners – you!

Meet Keiran, Graphic Designer and Owner of Katchee Gifts

How do you stay motivated and organised day-to-day?

This is something I find really hard because I am neurodiverse, however having a written list of things I have to do and by when, can help with staying organised.

My working patterns are not the standard 9-5 work day, most weeks I am working from 10am to around 8pm, with a break in the middle to do non-work things, like the washing or food shopping.

I also find having a set deadline motivates me to get things done. If you’re working for someone else or a client, ask for your deadlines to be adjusted before the actual deadline, so you have time for feedback and changes, don’t do it all the day before like I used to!

If you’re reading this and you are also neurodiverse, just know that it’s okay to take a break or to bitesize your work into do-able chunks. Don’t try and do everything at once because you will burn out!

How has running a business changed you as a person?

Running a business has made me so much more confident in myself and my own abilities, as well as knowing my own strengths and weaknesses. I know I am not great with numbers, so I have friends or business people I know who can check it for me.

Online, I really like making content and connecting with other small businesses as well as my customers. 5 years ago I would never have had the confidence to even talk to a customer, let alone another business owner.

When I first started Katchee, I didn’t really care to know about the numbers or my audience.

Nowadays, I am constantly on top of the numbers, constantly wanting to improve margins and understand my audience better, what makes them tick, why would they buy from me, what other products would they like?

What skills have you developed that you didn’t expect to?

I have developed so many skills I didn’t even realise I would need, from content creation to product photography and SEO, to working out margins on a spreadsheet, as a sole trader you really do have to do it all.

I think I have gained valuable transferable skills like customer service, interpersonal skills, problem solving and so many other things. I will also admit I don’t know everything about business and probably never will. If there is a day where I am no longer learning something new, that’s the day I retire.

What’s a piece of advice you’d give to young entrepreneurs?

Learn the fundamentals of business before you grow, know your audience and what they need, what problem do you solve for them? Don’t be afraid to ask for help from someone who knows their stuff, sometimes you’d be surprised what you learn from a mentor, more experienced business person, or an organisation like The Kings Trust or The Growth Company.

Meet Lucy, Nail and Beauty Therapist, and owner of Lu Lotus

What inspired you to start your business?  

At first, nails were just something I enjoyed on the side to get me through university. But over time, I realised I didn’t fit inside traditional jobs. I wanted work that didn’t drain me but nurtured me. 

What began as something small, slowly grew because people believed in me before I fully believed in myself. Clients shared my work, told their friends, and little by little, it became clear that I was allowed to build something different. 

How do you stay motivated and organised day-to-day? 

Not every season is about growth, and I try to lean into that. I conserve energy when I need to, and grab inspiration whenever it hits. Then, when I have the time and energy, I dive into the new things I’m most excited to try. 

On days I don’t bounce out of bed ready for work, I remind myself I’ve had days like these before -and most often, I end up feeling lighter, brighter, and quietly proud by the time I finish.  

Organisation-wise let’s just say I’m a work in progress.  Morning rituals like lighting incense, softening the lights and setting the mood via music help me stay grounded. Not an organisation queen, but I know how to deliver a playlist that brings the vibes! Beyond that, I live by my calendar and Notes app. (Tips welcome -I’ll take all the hacks!)

How has running a business changed you as a person?

I’ve become more resilient. I’m less scared to try new things, because even if they fail, I know I’ll learn something along the way and give my clients a good giggle.

Running my business has also shown me how much I really love people – my people. My vibe has attracted my tribe, and it keeps attracting them! I’ve learned to trust myself and my intuition more, and to honour my own pace. Taking time for me actually adds to my business.

Slowing down helps me show up for myself, my business, and my clients, feeling rejuvenated and fully like me.

What skills have you developed that you didn’t expect to?

Well, I didn’t know I had this much resilience! I’ve also built confidence I never thought I’d have, just by showing up consistently for my clients and for the business in my own way.

I’ve discovered the magic of my own rhythm.  I don’t do things the ‘traditional’ way. And that works for me. Turns out, following your own pace, and giving yourself a break when needed, is a skill in itself.

What’s a piece of advice you’d give to young entrepreneurs?

Find your people (by being yourself)-mentors, workshops, communities of other small business owners -and soak up inspiration. The scary parts feel less scary when you know you’re not alone, and your tribe will help you trust yourself, keep your momentum, and enjoy the ride.

Don’t get stuck on soaking up the inspiration though. Do it wrong. Do it scared. But Do.

You don’t have to have it all figured out, and you definitely don’t have to follow a traditional playbook. Show up, take the leaps, make mistakes, and trust your intuition.

Where can I go for help?

If that’s got you excited about the idea of being an entrepeneur, why not check out our article on Curriculum for Life about how to set up your business?

Running a business isn’t easy, though. If you need more support, why not check out EnterprisingYou? They’re supported by the Business Growth Hub, and they’re all about helping entrepeneurs take things to the next level. All of the business owners featured in this blog received support from them – so you’ll be in great company!

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Coronation Street Turns 65: Could This Iconic Soap Help You Discover Your Career in TV? https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/coronation-street-turns-65-could-this-iconic-soap-help-you-discover-your-career-in-tv/ Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:30:58 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=362968 The post Coronation Street Turns 65: Could This Iconic Soap Help You Discover Your Career in TV? appeared first on GMACS.

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Coronation Street Turns 65: Could This Iconic Soap Help You Discover Your Career in TV?

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This week marks 65 years since Coronation Street first made it to our screens. As the world’s first and longest running soap, not only is it setting records, but it has also put Greater Manchester on the map.

Its popularity is all thanks to the drama it serves. The challenging storylines and memorable characters have turned the show into what we know it as today: nothing short of iconic.

But the show would not have reached icon status without all the people that worked to create it.

Perhaps you’ve wondered about a career in TV, but you’re not sure what that would look like.

That’s why we’re taking a look at all of the different areas of TV production, and the roles within them, so you can find the perfect job for you. Read on to get inspired about how you could be part of the next generation of television!

Actor

When you’re thinking about TV, actors are often the first people we think of. Maybe you love performing or have a natural flair for the dramatic. If so, acting is one way of getting into the industry.

You could look at a BTEC in Performing Arts to kickstart your creative career as an actor.

Writer

Lots of people discover the arts through performance. Many of those who work behind the scenes start their careers as actors because that experience gives them in depth knowledge of the industry. This includes writers too!

Screen writers work as a part of a larger team to think of engaging storylines, develop existing plots and ensure the voices and actions of the characters are specific to them and feel real.

Perhaps you’ve got a vivid imagination or enjoy the process of creating stories. If you aspire to write creatively for a living, there are different routes to do this. It all depends on what you want to do.

You could study Literature at A Level, or if you’re looking to write for screen, a T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production is a great way to understand what is required of screen writers.

Close up image of a pair of hands on a laptop keyboard.

Producer

A producer is a type of manager who is responsible for a huge variety of tasks. They might be scouting for a location for a particular scene or deciding how the budget for the show is being spent. They can also be involved in the creation of storylines. They are an overseer of all that goes on at every stage of TV development.

Experience and knowledge of producing is really valued, so choosing a course that can give your hands on experience is beneficial for anyone looking to find their start. This is why a T level in Media, Broadcast and Production can be so useful.

Crew

Working as a part of the crew can refer to a variety of different jobs. You’ve got the directors who oversee the creative direction of the shoot. To help them achieve the creative vision, there’s assistant directors and runners on set to ensure that things are running smoothly.

The photography team, who are in charge of the videography, includes the camera operators, electrical team and those responsible for lighting. There’s also sound operators and script supervisors who are make sure the continuity of the plot is protected, by ensuring everyone’s saying their lines right or intervening if any plot changes are made that don’t align with the story.

In addition to a T Level, apprenticeships are great way to find your start in the industry. You might be after a more generalised apprenticeship, however there’s plenty of specific schemes that allow you to work in the role that interests you.

Websites like the UK Screen Alliance and production companies advertise apprenticeships and other entry level opportunities, so check them out.

A rack of props for TV or movies. Most items on display are hats or boots, in an old fashioned style.

Art Department

Being in the art department means you’re responsible for all things visual. This can range from set design to the props used by the actors as well as the actors’ hair and makeup. Deciding what makeup, hair and costume the characters will wear is an easy way for audience to understand who they are. The tv and film industry depend on the art department quite frequently to present the world they’ve created without having to explain it to the audience through the dialogue.

Those working within the art department will also be present on set to make sure everything goes to plan!

If you think you’d enjoy bringing a story to life visually, by choosing to do a T level in Craft and Design, you could build the skills you need to develop into a career in screen. Again, apprenticeships are another popular route as they give you the chance to network and gain experience.

Editing

Now that all the footage has been captured, it is the job of an editor to bring the story together. They choose the best footage, stitch together the scenes and make changes when needed. This would include things like adding sound, music, or even removing background noise.

Using the script as a guide to bring the story to life, they would regularly consult with the team to ensure that the story is being told in the way the director imagined.

Like the other roles, T Levels and apprenticeships are a great way to get into a post-production role.

Other support

A career in media doesn’t always mean a creative career! It takes a lot of different people to make sure that a TV show is run efficiently.

There are people who work in finance, making sure that people are being paid and that money is being distributed to the right departments. There’s a legal team who deal with contracts and advise on any legal issues. There are even medics on set when there’s dangerous scenes being filmed.

The business team helps with the administrative tasks that need doing, and the marketing of the show. Marketing roles can be more creative, as you might be responsible for an advert you see on billboard or on social media.

Where could you fit in?

This blog has focused on some of the roles within TV. However, depending on the production there are even more job roles you can explore.

Jobs like casting, animation or music composition are just some of the other pathways you can pursue. Research what’s out there to find your future role – check out the Beeline page on Creative, Culture and Sport to find out more.

Remember the creative industry needs diversity within its workforce to create productions that really resonate, it can competitive but if it’s your dream to work in TV – go for it. Your voice deserves to be heard.

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Celebrating GM Greats – How Their Career Could Influence Yours: L.S. Lowry https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/celebrating-gm-greats-how-their-career-could-influence-yours-l-s-lowry/ Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:20:09 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=362865 The post Celebrating GM Greats – How Their Career Could Influence Yours: L.S. Lowry appeared first on GMACS.

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Celebrating GM Greats – How Their Career Could Influence Yours: L.S. Lowry

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Greater Manchester can proudly proclaim that it is the home of many talented people. Many individuals from GM are celebrated for the work they have done or are doing. This is a huge testament to the range of skills and abilities of the people belonging to the region.

That’s why we’ve created this new blog series, where we’re choosing different icons of Manchester and taking a deep dive into why they’re famous and what you could learn from them. We’ll be doing this either around their birthday or another special day they’re known for.

Our first icon? The Streford-born artist L.S.Lowry.

The icon

L.S Lowry was born on the 1st of November 1887. He was an artist whose work earned him worldwide recognition. His work and its influence have surpassed his lifetime. His pieces are celebrated for their ability to represent the working-class communities that he lived in.

Not too familiar with the work of L.S.Lowry?

The Lowry theatre (named after the man himself) has his work on display as well as an immersive experience of one of his most famous painting. Visit  the Lowry website to arrange your free visit.

Night picture of the Lowry illuminated by the quays.
Shallow Focus Photography of Paintbrush

Artistic Careers

Visual art can be much more than creating a piece of work that is pleasing on the eye. Lowry had the ability to represent the communities he knew and lived in with his drawings and paintings.

Like Lowry, you might feel the drive to create art because of a feeling or message you’d like share. Perhaps it’s a way of expressing yourself, or you simply enjoy it.

Whatever your reason, a career in the arts can be incredibly fulfilling, and L.S. Lowry who chose to live in the Northwest his entire life, even after achieving global success, is testament to that.

Who in Greater Manchester can help nurture your talent?

Are you an aspiring early-career artist in Greater Manchester? There are various schemes, grants or groups that will allow you to invest time into your artistic craft. We’ve included a list of organisations that offer opportunities that could allow you to level up as an artist. Joining groups that allow you to focus on your art is not only a great way to develop your skills, but it’s also a way to meet like-minded people. There are also grants offered within Greater Manchester to support your journey.

HOME Young Artists Studio

The HOME Young Artists Studio a 12-month programme for young people ages 14 to 18 who want to take part in workshops and work with practising artists to learn about art, exhibitions, studio working, curation, and artists’ collectives. Find out more by visiting the HOME website.

Manchester Art Gallery Creative Consultants

Manchester Art Gallery have an informal group for 14-19 year olds which holds creative meetups and hosts bigger events and exhibitions. Learn more on the Manchester Art Gallery website.

If you’re interested in joining either group, contact each organisation to ask and check out their websites to find out more.

Arts Council England

Arts Council England offer a number of different funds which could support your artistic pursuits. You can explore open funds on their website.

Greater Manchester Combined Authority

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) offer some cultural funding that you might be able to access, either as an individual or as part of an organisation. Currently, there are three funds: Collaborate, Inspire, and the GM Culture Fund. Find out more about these on the GMCA website.

If you are thinking about a long -term career in the arts, knowing about the funding you might be eligible for in the future is really good information to have.

Modern skyline and canal in Manchester
Turned-on Gray Laptop Computer on Table

Opportunities

Being a part of schemes that provide training, experience or mentorship is a wonderful way to enrich your career as an artist. Many creatives kickstart or take their career to the next level after being involved in these schemes.

Fortunately, Greater Manchester is filled with creative organisations that nurture young people entering the industry.

Below, we’ve included organisations to keep an eye on. They don’t all have active schemes that they are currently running, however it’s worth checking their sites regularly this may change.

Top tip: Check to make sure you’re eligible for a scheme that catches your eye – some schemes are looking for specific candidates!

Think out of the box

Remember, all the organisations we have mentioned are just some of the opportunities available to young artists within Greater Manchester.

Your local area might have artist groups or organisations that can help you develop your skills. It’s important as a developing artist to look at all the opportunities available to you. The connections you make and the time you put into your craft, whatever level you’re practising at, will only enhance your profile as an artist.

Clear Light Bulb Placed on Chalkboard

Considering a career in art?

Perhaps a career as an artist isn’t something that interests you, but you still want to work in the world of visual art.  

If so, then check out this blog from another series we have. The jobs for you might be one click away. Click here to explore jobs you might not have thought about with an art and design qualification.

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Black History Month: Greater Manchester Organisations That Could Support You https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/black-history-month-greater-manchester-organisations-that-could-support-you/ Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:26:56 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=362687 The post Black History Month: Greater Manchester Organisations That Could Support You appeared first on GMACS.

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Black History Month: Greater Manchester Organisations That Could Support You

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Black History Month is an important time to reflect on the history of black people, and how their influence has shaped the lives of many today. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate not just individuals’ successes, but the organisations created by black people that support and educate on a huge range of topics.

If you’re eager to learn more about what black history month entails, the Black History Month Magazine website is a great place to start. Their site is full of resources and information.

Greater Manchester Organisations Making a Difference

In honour of black history month, we’ve highlighted some Greater Manchester based organisations that are championing young black people in education and employment.

Keep reading to find out more…

Sam Buah Organisation

The Sam Buah Organisation offers various programmes that support those from minority backgrounds with their careers. They run multiple schemes that support people with their career journeys. From mentoring, to training and networking opportunities, they are an organisation that are dedicated to investing in the next generations of workers.

To see how they might be able to help you, have a look at their website.

Louise Da-Cocodia Trust

Another organisation that supports young people in their educational and employment journey is the Louise Da-Cocodia Trust. They offer various resources of support to young people that aims to improve their self-development on a professional and emotional level.

To learn more, check out their website.

Black Creative Trailblazers

For the creative readers out there, Black Creative Trailblazers is an organisation that not only aims to create a more visible and accessible community for black creatives within Greater Manchester, but creates opportunities for them.

They host events and workshops that offer insight. Their platform also advertises the services of creative black people in the region and allows you to post your own opportunities.

They cover many creative roles, so if you’re an aspiring creative they’re a great organisation to check out.

Logos of 5 Charity organisations: The Sam Buah<br />
Foundation, the Louise Da-cocodia Education Trust, The Black Creative Trailblazers, The Afrocats, and the Blossom Foundation

Afrocats

Another one for the creatives!

Afrocats support young people through their mentoring schemes. They’re scheme offers the opportunity for creative to learn how they can use their talents to host workshops.

Not only do the mentee’s have the opportunity to flex their skills but they will also be taught how their creative talents can enrich the lives of others.

Blossom

This is one for the girls! Blossom is a Greater Manchester based organisation that provides women with the tools they need to navigate life. This includes support with their education. The organisation offers a placement scheme to young women of colour.

If you’re interested in learning more, have a look at their site here.

Further Support

If you are searching for financial help, Save the Student has a page dedicated to all the organisations that provide grants, bursaries and scholarships to young people from minority backgrounds.

It’s worth having a look, you might find something there for you.

Hopefully, this blog has provided you with some resources that can be helpful to your career. Greater Manchester has a wealth of organisations that support communities experiencing racial inequalities, in all different areas of life.

To learn more, check out the Manchester Community Central website. Here you’ll find a list of organisations making a difference within black communities in Greater Manchester.

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Halloween 2025: Exploring The MBacc Gateways with Iconic Halloween Characters  https://gmacs.co.uk/blog/halloween-2025-exploring-the-mbacc-gateways-with-iconic-halloween-characters/ Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:28:50 +0000 https://gmacs.co.uk/?p=362696 The post Halloween 2025: Exploring The MBacc Gateways with Iconic Halloween Characters  appeared first on GMACS.

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Halloween 2025: Exploring The MBacc Gateways with Iconic Halloween Characters 

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As you know GMACS is a site that gives you information on all things education and employment in Greater Manchester. But as it’s spooky season, imagine if some of the most iconic Halloween were ready to start afresh and put their wicked ways behind them. Imagine they were back in school or college, researching the different pathways they can choose from the Beeline page. And just like you they were having to decide what they wanted to do in the future. Apart from being Halloween icons of course.

So, keep reading to find out which Greater Manchester Baccalaureate pathway these iconic characters would choose if they were a young person in Greater Manchester. And, to find out more about the pathways and see which ones you like the look of for your future, check out Beeline.

Creative, Culture and Sport – Pennywise – IT (1990/2017)

From appearance alone, Pennywise would be the perfect children’s entertainer. Paired with his love for performance, this would make him the perfect drama student.

Choosing the Creative, Culture and Sport pathway will give him the tools he needs to achieve his dream of being a children tv presenter in Media City.

The Creative, Culture and Sports pathway offers variety. Like Pennywise, your interests might be on the creative side of things. Or you might feel more drawn to the more cultural and sports related topics.  

To learn more about this pathway, and where you might fit into it, check out the Creative, Culture and Sport gateway page on Beeline.  

pennywise holding a balloon standing in front of a black background
a house with lights on in the night

Construction and the Green Economy – Nebbercrackers House – Monster House (2006)

As this character is quite literally a house, a career in construction seems like the natural next step.

Not only is Nebbercrackers House doing a brilliant job of scaring the neighbourhood children with its supernatural abilities, but it can also turn its hand to anything construction related.

Nebbercrackers House would thrive in a construction role, but maybe you would too.

Find you’re great at practical work? Can you spot an issue before it’s become a problem? Enjoy designing or building?

If this sounds like you, check out the career options available to you in the world of Construction and the Green Economy.

Education and Early Years – Morticia Addams – Addams Family (1991)

Morticia Addams is normally seen as the darkly glamorous matriarch of the Addams family. But beyond her enchanting looks, Morticia is an intelligent and caring individual who always champions others.

Her ability to plan well and her calm demeanour would make her wonderful mentor.  Her strong presence could command a room in a moment, and her knowledge would keep a classroom easily entertained.

Like Morticia, maybe you could thrive in the world of Education and Early Years too. Are you naturally nurturing? Want to teach the next generations? Or maybe you feel that you want to support children and young people in other ways.

See how you could make a difference in this sector – click to explore the

a woman holding an a rose
a man standing in front of an investigation board

Engineering and Manufacturing – Riddler – The Batman (2022)

Gotham City is a playground for villains like the Riddler. But it’s also a place for the Riddler to try out all his new contraptions to try and outsmart Batman. Despite his evil intentions, you’ve got to give it to the Riddler. He really does have a talent for designing traps!

This is how you know he’d choose a career in Engineering and Manufacturing. Applying his genius for design and building to a job in this field means he’d be an asset to any company – so long as he kept the office pranks to a minimum!

Maybe you too saw all the fun contraptions in the Batman franchise and caught yourself trying to work out how they’d been built.

If so, have you considered a career in Engineering and Manufacturing? Choosing this pathway would allow you to learn all about design, development and building products.

If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, check out the Engineering and Manufacturing gateway on Beeline.

Health and Social Care – Victor Frankenstein – Frankenstein (2025)

There are various reasons for those of you who are aspiring to have a career in Health and Social Care, you might naturally care for others. Or you have a scientific brain, like Victor Frankenstein.

His drive and need to experiment would allow him to thrive as a doctor or a biomedical scientist.

Like Victor Frankenstein, you might be more interested in the research side of the health and social sector. But depending on what you’d like to pursue, health social offers a wide range of career opportunities.

Learn more about your options in Health and Social Care on Beeline.

a graveyard in black and white filter
bats in the sky at sundown

Finance, Business and Professional Services – Count Dracula – Bram Stroker’s Dracula (1992)

Count Dracula has been around for a long time, and he’s utilised the time by building a very lengthy CV.

The fact he’s been alive for a couple of centuries, could be considered an unfair advantage to Count Dracula, as he’s had plenty of time to learn the tricks of the trade.

However, it’s his passion and talent for finance and business that has kept him in the field all this time.

Therefore, if he was a young person in Manchester, he’d chose the Financial, Business and Professional Services pathway.

But perhaps he’s not the only one. Maybe you revel in the idea of being a corporate type.

Whether you aspire to a career that financial, legal or business related, it’s worth checking out the gateway page on Beeline for more information.

Digital and Technology – M3gan – M3gan (2022)

M3gan exists because of Artificial Intelligence. So, what better pathway for her to pursue than the Digital and Technology route.

Not only would she learn more about the industry, but she’d probably learn more about herself.

You might not be a computerised doll, however that doesn’t mean you won’t prosper in the world of Digital and Technology just like M3gan.

Digital and Technology is forever developing and the roles within the field are constantly changing. If this appeals to you, check out the gateway on Beeline to find out more.

a white robot hand on a white background

What iconic Halloween character would be your classmate?

Thankfully, you won’t find yourself sitting next to Pennywise in your next lesson or being put to work on a group project with Nebbercracker’s house.

Although not knowing what you want to do could be as equally as stressful as one of those scenarios we just mentioned.

Perhaps you’re not sure what pathway is for you yet, and that’s okay!

Beeline has something for everyone. Look through all seven gateways, so you can get an idea of what your options are

Otherwise, Happy Halloween!

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