Education

Expert Tips for Getting a Job After You Graduate

Published

1 year ago

June 21, 2022

University is a stepping stone to your future, and for some, it is something of a safety net: a few years before you have to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life (or at least, the next ten years or so!) But third-year rolls around all too quickly and – unless you stay on to do a master’s – you will soon have to start the hunt for your dream job.

How to Get a Job After Graduate

Know What You Want

University degrees are excellent tools in your search for a career, and they are not as limiting as some people might think. A degree in science does not mean that you cannot work in the arts, and a degree in English literature does not preclude your moving into another – perhaps a more science-based field. Many law qualifications can be taken with an undergraduate degree. This means that even if you are doing a degree through clearing, it does not have to mean the end of your dreams – your university experience will give you so many benefits that the subject of your degree is almost immaterial. So, try to ascertain, as early as possible, what you would like to do with yourself, and begin to craft your CV in that direction as soon as possible.

Use Your Uni

Most UK universities have student guidance and careers and employability departments where students can go for in-depth chats about the future, take aptitude tests and see if there are any partnerships between the university and companies that they might like to work for. Work-based learning modules are excellent for providing students with real-life work experience without the stress of interviews and being alone in the experience: students will have the support and advice of their tutors, the above-mentioned guidance departments, and the fact that their peers are in exactly the same situation, which is excellent for soothing nerves and anxieties.

Start Looking Early

Depending on where you are in your university career, you should start meeting with career guidance counselors as early as the first year if you really have no idea about what you would like to do with yourself. The long summer holiday between the second and third years is an ideal time for work experience, short-term jobs, or internships. This allows you to go into the third year, knowing where you are heading and able to speak to headhunters recruiters about setting up a series of interviews for when you have graduated. With luck, you will graduate with both a diploma and an employment contract in your possession!

Be Fussy

Having said the above, how do you make sure that you end up in the right place? The simple answer is to be exceedingly fussy. Intensively research your chosen career and read employee reviews. Work to a shortlist of maybe five companies that would be ideal for you to work for, and limit yourself to that list. This will allow you to tailor yourself to their specifications, so they can be equally fussy with their candidates and give you the best chance of ending up high on their positive radar.

Work Shadow

Once you have arrived at a short list of possible companies, get in touch with them and ask if you can shadow someone at work, preferably in a position that you would like to hold one day. Work shadowing essentially is what it sounds like: you tag along with someone for several hours as they do the job, giving you an idea of how they manage their day, the high points, and the lows. Doing this through a university or employability program is best as it ensures that the person you are shadowing is happy to have you there and will take the time to explain things in more depth than they might otherwise be inclined to.

Network

Finally, network. The phrase might smack of the eighties, with conventions and up-selling, but networking simply means getting out there and introducing yourself to people who are in a position to guide your career, mentor you, or simply point you in the direction of an upskill that you might need to get ahead. The more people you know in the industry, the better your chances are of being brought to mind when a position opens up.

Education

The Role of Schools in Parenting

Published

1 month ago

October 27, 2023

Rahul Shukla

When we think about a child growing up, schools are one of the main places where they learn and change. In the UK, schools do more than just teach subjects. They help shape a child’s personality, teach them right from wrong, and prepare them for the future. Parents and schools work closely together in this journey. With so many school options and different exams in the UK, parents have a lot to think about.

Primary vs. Secondary School

Navigating the UK’s education system necessitates understanding the fundamental distinction between primary and secondary schooling. Primary schools, catering to children aged 4 to 11, focus on laying the foundational blocks of education. The curriculum here is broad, fostering a general understanding of subjects like maths, science, English, and humanities. Extracurriculars at this stage are explorative, allowing children to discover their interests.

Secondary schools, cater to the age group of 11 to 16 (or 18, if the student proceeds to Sixth Form). The curriculum becomes more specialized, and students delve deeper into chosen subjects. Extracurriculars here are often more intense, honing specific skills, whether that’s in sports, the arts, or other fields.

The Examination System in The UK

As students progress through their education, they encounter key milestones in the form of examinations. The most prominent of these is the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams, usually taken at age 16. They are subject-specific and test the comprehensive knowledge gained during secondary schooling.

The foundation of the Examination System In the UK, formal examinations become prominent during secondary schooling, serving as a yardstick to assess students’ grasp of the curriculum and their readiness for subsequent academic stages.

1. General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)

Age Bracket: Typically taken by students aged 15-16, marking the culmination of compulsory schooling.

Subject-Specific: The GCSEs cover a range of subjects, from core ones like English, Maths, and Science, to optional ones depending on the student’s interest and the school’s offerings.

Assessment Style: They incorporate a mix of coursework, controlled assessments, and final exams.

2. Advanced Level (A-Levels)

Further Specialization: Following GCSEs, students who wish to continue their education before university take A-levels around ages 17-18.

Depth Over Breadth: A-levels require students to choose fewer subjects (typically 3 or 4) but study them in much greater depth.

University Admissions: These qualifications are critical for university entry, with institutions often having specific grade requirements for their courses.

Alternative Qualifications: Besides A-levels, students might also consider vocational qualifications like BTECs, which are more practically oriented and can also lead to university or direct employment.

Revision Period: As exams approach, students undergo intensive revision periods. This involves revisiting content, practicing past papers, and reinforcing key concepts.

3. Parental Support

Academic Backing: Hiring tutors, creating study schedules, and providing necessary resources can significantly impact a student’s performance.

Emotional Support: Recognizing the stress that exams can bring, parents are encouraged to offer emotional and mental support, ensuring a balanced study-life routine for their child.

Exam Results and Post-Examination Options: After exams, results dictate the next steps. For GCSE students, it could mean pursuing A-levels, vocational qualifications, or apprenticeships. For A-level students, results can influence university admissions, gap years, or entry into the workforce.

Continuous Updates: The UK examination system, while rooted in tradition, is not static. Changes in curriculum, assessment methods, and grading are introduced periodically. Parents and students are advised to stay updated with any modifications made by examination boards.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing the Right School

1. Location and Proximity

Commute: The distance between the school and your home can influence daily routines, with longer commutes potentially leading to early mornings and late evenings.

Community Ties: Proximity often means the school serves the local community, allowing for stronger neighborhood connections and easier arrangements for playdates or study groups.

2. Historical Performance in Examinations:

GCSE and A-Level Results: Reviewing a school’s historical examination performance can offer insights into its academic strengths.

Consistency: Look for schools that maintain consistent performance over the years, indicating stability in teaching quality.

3. Ofsted Ratings

Overview: Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, regularly inspects schools in England, providing ratings ranging from ‘Outstanding’ to ‘Inadequate.’

Beyond the Rating: While the overall rating is vital, the detailed Ofsted report offers insights into specific areas like leadership, teaching quality, and student behavior.

4. School Ethos and Values

Mission Statements: Most schools have a mission statement or ethos description. This gives a glimpse into the school’s philosophy and its priorities.

Alignment with Family Values: It’s essential that the school’s ethos mirrors the values you wish to instill in your child.

5. Extracurricular Activities

Broadening Horizons: Extracurriculars offer students opportunities to explore talents outside the standard curriculum.

Variety: Look for schools that offer a diverse range of activities, catering to different interests.

6. Facilities and Infrastructure

Modern Classrooms: Check if the school has up-to-date facilities, including technology-enhanced classrooms.

Amenities: Libraries, sports fields, science labs, and art rooms can significantly influence a child’s overall school experience.

7. Student Support Systems

Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support: If your child requires additional support, ensure the school has robust SEN provisions.

Pastoral Care: Schools with strong pastoral care systems help in addressing non-academic issues, ensuring students’ well-being.

8. Feedback from Current Parents

Firsthand Experience: Conversations with parents whose children currently attend the school can offer invaluable, unfiltered insights.

Open Days: Attend school open days or tours, allowing you to witness the school environment and interact with staff and other parents.

Conclusion

Going through the UK’s school system, we see that schools aren’t just places to learn; they work hand-in-hand with parents to help kids grow upright. Parents learn a lot from schools, helping them make good choices for their children. Just like in a dance where parents lead and schools follow, they work together to give children a bright future. It’s important for parents and schools to work as a team so every child in the UK can do their best in school and in life.

FAQs

1. What role do UK schools play in a child’s overall development?

In the UK, schools serve as pivotal platforms for holistic child development. Beyond imparting academic knowledge, they actively engage in character-building, instilling societal values, and prepping students for real-world challenges. Activities, class discussions, and school ethos all contribute to shaping a child’s personality, ethics, and worldview.

2. How do UK schools support parenting efforts?

UK schools foster a partnership with parents. They regularly organize parent-teacher meetings, offer workshops on child development and the curriculum, and provide resources to help parents assist their children at home. Schools also frequently send communications about events, progress reports, and ways parents can be more involved.

3. What is the importance of location when choosing a school in the UK?

Location plays a multifaceted role. A nearby school simplifies daily routines, reducing commute stress for both child and parent. Moreover, closer proximity encourages community bonding, allowing children and parents to foster relationships with local families, and making social activities and study groups more feasible.

4. How does the UK examination system impact a child’s academic journey?

Exams like GCSEs and A-levels are pivotal in the UK. They not only test a student’s grasp of subjects but often set the trajectory for future education and career opportunities. These exams can influence university admissions, making them significant milestones in a student’s academic journey.

5. How can parents stay involved and engaged with their child’s school?

Active engagement is key. Parents can attend school events, be part of parent-teacher associations, and volunteer for school activities. Regular communication with teachers, attending workshops, and using school-provided resources also help parents stay connected and informed.

6. What are Ofsted ratings and why are they important for parents?

Ofsted ratings are evaluations given by the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills. They assess a school’s performance, focusing on aspects like teaching quality, leadership, and pupil welfare. For parents, these ratings and accompanying reports offer an unbiased look into a school’s strengths and areas of improvement.

7. Are extracurricular activities significant in UK schools?

Yes, Extracurriculars in UK schools offer students a chance to explore talents outside the regular curriculum, build teamwork, and develop leadership skills. They provide a balance to academic rigor and allow students to cultivate passions that can benefit their personal and future professional lives.

8. How do schools in the UK address children with special educational needs?

UK schools prioritize inclusive education. Many have dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) departments that develop tailored programs and support mechanisms. Additionally, teachers often receive training to ensure these students are integrated into mainstream classes while receiving the individualized attention they require.

9. What factors should parents consider when choosing between a public and a private school?

Beyond the obvious tuition fee considerations, parents should evaluate class sizes, available facilities, extracurricular offerings, the school’s overall philosophy, and the student-to-teacher ratio. It’s also beneficial to gauge the school’s approach to discipline, its values, and the potential networking opportunities it might offer.

10. How do UK schools promote values and character building?

Schools in the UK often have dedicated character education programs. Regular assemblies address moral values, societal issues, and global awareness. Moreover, schools encourage community service, fostering empathy and civic responsibility. The general school environment and its ethos also play a part in promoting core values.

11. How can parents help their children navigate the transitions between primary and secondary school, and then onto higher education?

Transition phases can be challenging. Parents can attend school-offered transition workshops, engage their children in conversations about the changes they’ll experience, and maintain an open dialogue with teachers for guidance. Familiarizing themselves with the new curriculum and being empathetic to their child’s concerns can also ease the process.

Education

7 Courses to Crack AWS Solution Architect Professional Certification

Published

1 year ago

July 14, 2022

Rahul Shukla

Courses For AWS Solution Architect Professional Certification

Amazon Web Service (AWS) is a leading cloud computing solutions provider for small and large organizations. With many people utilizing their services, there is a constant need for certified professionals to implement different cloud computing initiatives.

To take your career in cloud computing to the next level, you must demonstrate a high level of professionalism. One way of doing this is by getting certified. AWS solutions architect associate certification is the best way to start your journey as a skilled cloud computing professional. AWS being a global leader in this field, there is high demand for professionals who are well conversant with this platform.

A simple search on Google or other preferred search engines will reveal hundreds of training institutions offering AWS certified Solution architects certifications. Some are online; others are on-campus. However, not all courses are meant for you. You look for a course that best suits your learning needs. This article focuses on training you can take online because it offers flexibility.

Best Courses For AWS Solution Architect Professional Certification

AWS Certified Solutions Architect course – Associate by Amazon

Amazon offers extensive resources that can help you prepare for solutions architect exams. There is free and paid training. You can learn the fundamentals of ASW with the free AWS technical essentials course. It will give you a comprehensive overview of different AWS concepts, including security, monitoring, storage, and database. By completing the 4-hour training, you’ll be able to build scalable cloud solutions. After, you can do a practice test to gauge your understanding of different concepts. After completing AWS technical essentials, you may enroll in the exam preparation training.

If you feel inadequately prepared after going through all the free resources, you may want to enroll in the paid course. Expert AWS architect instructors deliver the course. It’ll take you through fundamental architecting practices, processes of designing AWS solutions, and other concepts so that you are grounded in AWS architecting and related cloud computing solutions.

Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate

You’ll find this course on Udemy. It has over 100 000 reviews with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5. This means most learners were happy with the course. This course is not only designed for people with an AWS background. People with no prior AWS knowledge can enroll in this course.

The course teaches AWS fundamentals, databases on AWS, serverless and traditional solution architectures, and other essential principles. There is a full practice exam to get you acclimatized with AWS solutions architect exams. Course materials are available 24 hours for reference and practice. I also like the fact that it is budget-friendly. It costs $84, but you may pay less considering Udemy is always running promotions. At the time of writing, it was at an 84% discount.

AWS: Learning and Implementing AWS Solution

If you are preparing for AWS solutions architect exams on an s shoestring budget, you’ll be glad when you come across a free course that will help you in this regard. When writing this article, this course was free on Udemy. This course teaches concepts like databases, computation, and storage. The instructor takes you through different principles, making it easy to follow. The downside of this course is that you should have some prior AWS knowledge to appreciate it fully.

Cloud computing with Amazon Web

This is also a free course. You’ll find it on Udemy. Most times, free courses get overlooked because most people assume free things have no value. Although this is a free course, it offers incredible value. It is designed for beginners. The course takes you through the basics of cloud computing on the ASW platform. You’ll learn essential concepts you must know to build your first infrastructure on AWS. You’ll clearly understand how to configure virtual servers, databases, CDN, and monitoring systems.

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect (CSA) course by Adrian Cantrill

Although it is crucial that you prepare for AWS certifies Solutions Architect exams, you should enroll in a course that provides knowledge that will help you beyond exams. After getting certified, you must face the real world of cloud computing. You’ll be able to practice for exams with full practice exams. After paying, you’ll be given lifetime access to course materials. You can always take lessons and practice when most convenient for you. If you try the course and decide that the course is not right for you for the first 30 days, you may ask for a refund.

AWS Solutions Architect Associate Certification by SimpliLearn

This course prepares you for AWS certification exams and gives you the skills to handle business and organization-related needs professionally. This course was created for people who have an IT background and are familiar with cloud computing.

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C02)-Cloud Guru

This course was developed for beginners with no prior programming and AWS experience. I like that all lecture videos are short (they take 5 to 15 minutes). The information is precise and easy for anyone to process. You’ll learn all essential ASW architectural concepts. Cloud Guru regularly updates this course to meet current Amazon Web service upgrades.

Conclusion

Cloud computing is constantly evolving to provide relevant solutions for businesses and governments. Professionals and people looking to join this industry must get the necessary skills to be in a position to offer credible cloud computing solutions. AWS certification courses prepare professionals for exams and give them relevant skills necessary to handle day-to-day AWS solutions for businesses.

Education

10 Data Science and Machine Learning Certification Courses in London

Published

1 year ago

July 10, 2022

Rahul Shukla

Data Science and Machine Learning Certification Courses in London

As the world pivots towards automation, certified data scientists and IT professionals skilled in machine learning technologies are crucial. Large enterprises have the resources to collect data effectively, but they need skilled data scientists and I T professionals conversant with Machine learning to use this data well. It takes a lot of computing power and technical skills to analyze large amounts of varying data. Hence the increase in demand for professionals in this field.

Are you an IT professional planning to specialize in data science or machine learning? Are you highly skilled in machine learning and data science and require a certificate to uphold industry standards or demonstrate professionalism? If you said yes to any of the questions above, this guide was put together with you in mind.

We will explore 10 of the best data science and machine learning courses in London. by the time you go through the entire article, you’ll be in a position to select a course that is right for you.

What To Consider To Select The Right Certification Course For You

There are many data science and machine learning courses in London. Not all courses are meant for you. It would help if you were careful to select a course that will not divert you from your original plan; it should put you on a straight career path.

What are your interests?

What is it that you hope to achieve with the certification? Do you need a certificate to demonstrate professionalism? Are you looking to specialize in data science or machine learning? Choose a course that suits your needs and is within your budget.

What is your level of knowledge in the said field?

Courses are curated to meet the needs of different types of learners. If you are new to a particular field, you want to join a course designed for learners. If you are familiar with the basics of a particular field, you want to join a more advanced course.

The Quality of the course matters

a quick search online can reveal several reviews about a particular course. What former learners have to say about a course is telling. It’ll help you know whether the instructors are great trainers. You’ll also be able to know shortcomings related to the course.

What is your budget?

You want to get the best course money can buy. However, just because a course is expensive doesn’t mean it is high-quality. Select a quality course that fits right within your budget. Here are some of the top 10 data science and machine learning courses in London.

Definition of Data Science

Data science is the process of extracting knowledge and insights from data. Data science involves a variety of methods, including statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. Data scientists use these methods to answer questions, make predictions, and solve problems. Data science has been described as “the intersection of computer science, statistics, and domain expertise.” Data science is a relatively new field, and it is constantly evolving.

Data scientists must be able to adapt to new technologies and changes in the data landscape. Data science is an interdisciplinary field, and data scientists often have backgrounds in computer science, statistics, mathematics, and engineering. Data science is a powerful tool that can be used to improve businesses and organizations. Data scientists are in high demand, and the demand for data science skills is only increasing.

Definition of Machine Learning

Machine Learning is a method of data analysis that automates analytical model building. It is a branch of artificial intelligence based on the idea that systems can learn from data, identify patterns and make decisions with minimal human intervention. Machine learning algorithms are used in a wide variety of applications, such as email filtering and computer vision. Machine learning is often compared to other statistical techniques, such as deep learning, reinforcement learning, and unsupervised learning. Machine learning is sometimes conflated with data mining, although they are different concepts.

Machine learning focuses on the development of computer programs that can access data and use it to learn for themselves. Data mining, on the other hand, focuses on extracting useful patterns from large data sets. Machine learning is also related to optimization, which deals with the selection of the best element from some set of available alternatives.

Machine learning is sometimes split into two main categories: supervised learning and unsupervised learning. Supervised learning involves making predictions based on known labels or results. Unsupervised learning involves making predictions without known labels or results. Machine learning is not only about making predictions; it also encompasses the ability to learn from new data and improve the accuracy of predictions over time. Machine learning is an exciting field with immense potential; its applications are

Best Data Science and Machine Learning Courses in London

Data Science Training Course by Intellipaat

This is a self-paced data science and machine learning course for software engineers, information analysts, information statisticians, IT professionals looking to specialize in data science and machine learning, and anyone who desires to be an expert data scientist, or machine learning professional.

The course takes you through an introduction to python, fundamentals of data analysis using Excel and GIT, data wrangling using SQ, deep learning fundamentals, computer vision, natural language processing, and other essentials of machine learning and data science. The course has over 10,000 5-star reviews. This tells you that many people appreciate the course.

Online data science training by Datamite Global Institute for Data science

This is a 6 months online course that allows arrangements for classroom training. You’ll get to learn machine learning algorithms, statistics, and python. By the end of the course, you’ll be able to manage and analyze data projects and handle any related tasks assigned to you.

Data mites, a specialized institute, has extensive knowledge in the field of data science. You are sure to get current and relevant knowledge. You’ll be in a position to provide solutions to data-related problems businesses are faced with today. The certified data scientist course starts at $1,017.

BrainStation Data science course

Start your journey in data science with a course designed for beginners and advanced learners. This course will give you a solid foundation of data science concepts like machine learning, python, modeling, and computer vision. The courses are developed and delivered by top industry experts. This ensures learners get practical knowledge that can be readily applied to tackle everyday business data needs. At the end of the course, you can build a portfolio to showcase the skills you have gained. The downside of this course is that it has limited flexibility. It is offered on-campus only.

ExcelR offers data science certification training in conjunction with IBM

This course is aimed at professionals who want to enhance their careers in data science. It will give you a proper introduction to data science and related concepts. Towards the end, learners get to do a real-world project. You’ll benefit from this course if you want to learn the basics of MYSQL, R, Spark, Hadoop, and python. You’ll have access to practical/lie projects to help you master different concepts you have learned. Extra classes and support are offered to students who need extra help to master tricky concepts.

Machine learning certification course by SimpliLearn

This self-paced course will help you gain a deeper understanding of Artificial intelligence and machine learning. You’ll have no problem following through if you have basic knowledge of machine learning and artificial intelligence. The course was not designed for people with prior knowledge in this field. You’ll get a more comprehensive introduction to machine learning and related concepts before diving deeper into more complicated concepts. The course uses real-life examples to train learners in different concepts, including data classification, analysis, and utilization.

The content is well planned and methodological. It takes you from simple to more challenging concepts so that you are not shocked by new or strange information. SimpliLearn offers three packages to access this course. The self-paced learning package costs 749 pounds, and the online Bootcamp costs 71.25 per month.

Python Machine learning certification

Many businesses and organizations are increasingly applying machine learning to tackle operational challenges. Python is one of the key programming languages professionals in artificial intelligence and machine learning should be well conversant with. This course will teach you key concepts like machine learning algorithms, random forest, Q-learning, statistics, random forest, and other essential concepts that will ensure you are well-grounded with machine learning.

Edureka has a technical staff team to support learners 24 hours a day. The best courses help you to be grounded in both theoretical and practical aspects of concepts.

Machine learning: practical applications by London School of Economics and Political Science

This is an intensive 8-week course. You’ll learn the essential concepts and principles of machine learning and how to apply them in real-life business settings. You’ll learn different problem-solving techniques using machine learning.

The Quality of the course is indisputable. LSE is a reputable school with over 100 years of experience in education. You should be able to code in R language to do this course. The course is more pricey than most certifications, but it is worth it. It costs 1,800 pounds.

Machine Learning with Python by LSET

The London School of Emerging Technologies (LSET) is the one that designed this course. This course gives you a comprehensive introduction to python language. You’ll get well versed with plotly, Numpy, Pandas, and other vital python tools for machine learning. As the course progresses, you deep dive into complex machine learning concepts. The course is designed for people with IT knowledge, college students, and people looking to begin a career in data science.

Introduction to Data Analytics and Machine Learning with Python By City University of London

This is an introductory machine learning course offered by the City University of London. You’ll learn the basics of machine learning and data analysis. If you want a strong foundation in machine learning with python, this is the course for you. If you have no prior data analysis and machine learning skills, this course will get you up to speed.

Introduction to Machine Learning by Duke University

You will find this course on Coursera (an online education platform). Duke University offers it. It is for beginners. It’ll introduce you to the basic concepts in machine learning, such as logistic regression, neural network, multilayered perception, basics of image analysis, and other fundamentals.

Conclusion

Data analytics is an important component of doing business today. Companies gain crucial insights that enable them to make more informed decisions about different aspects of their business. When data is properly analyzed, businesses can identify key patterns concerning consumer behavior, which helps businesses