FAQ's
How much notice do I have to give to book a course?Our most popular courses get filled up quite quickly so we suggest you telephone to check vacancies at least three months in advance. You can always make a provisional booking over the phone then send us your completed application form and booking fee once you have cleared things with your unit and resettlement adviser.
How soon before I leave the forces should I do my training?
Most people get a job as a direct result of our training and on-site placements. You need to make sure that if you are offered a job you will be available to accept. That means that training and placement should lead directly into your terminal leave. Our course dates are issued at least four months in advance in order to help you with your plans.
Do I need any previous experience or qualifications to join the Communications industry?
It depends on which sector you are looking at. With mobile communications we recommend that you should have knowledge and experience of radio communication systems. On the other hand, you do not need previous knowledge or qualifications before training for the datacommunications, CATV or Security Systems sectors.
Do I need to do any pre-course preparation?
Frankly no. Our comprehensive course notes (which you keep when you leave) will give more than enough information to enable you to get to grips with the subject and prepare you for what you will find in your specialised area. If you are thinking about our Mobile Communications Technician course then you need to be confident that your recent service experience meets the pre-requisites for that particular programme
What are the Communications employment prospects like in my area?
Severe skills shortages are forecast in the future for both UK & Europe. The employment prospects generally are good, but like other industries there are some areas, eg far Southwest or the highlands and islands of Scotland where there may be fewer opportunities. Remember t hat provided you prepared to be flexible and mobile, with the right qualifications you should not have much difficulty getting a job. We do advise you to check your local area to see whether there is more CATV or data work going on, for example.
What sort of pay can I expect to earn when I first join the industry?
Earnings and job profiles obviously do vary between the three main communications sectors. There are also likely to be regional variations but an average of £7-10/hour would be reasonable for a 'trainee' in datacommunications. You also need to look at the overall package on offer. After about three to six months, when you have shown your employer that you are competent then you might expect to gain more responsibility and the money to go with it. There are also likely to be excellent opportunities to boost your earnings with overtime.
What happens when all the data, mobile and CATV networks have been installed?
There is still a very long way to go before we reach saturation in any of the communications sectors. At the same time, the networks have to be maintained and there will always be technical problems to be sorted out. In addition, as new technology comes on stream skilled professionals will be required to keep pace with it. Once you are in the industry, we think you will find that there will always be a demand for your skills and dedication and you will be in the best place to take advantage of opportunities as they come along.
What qualifications do I need to take full advantage of a career in communications?
At this early stage and depending on your previous experience, the most important qualifications are those that will get you into the industry and a job. Basic practical qualifications like City & Guilds that are nationally recognised will do this but the unique CNet framework of internationally recognised BTEC awards offers the widest choice of qualifications that can take you from entry to a BSc Honours Degree in under 10 years. No other communications training provider can offer such a broad choice.
I am keen to work abroad; will my qualifications be recognised wherever I go?
BTEC qualifications are recognised in over 100 countries but you may still have to spell out your key skills in any CV used for job hunting abroad and you should seek the advice of a specialist agency. However, for example, if you plan to live in USA or Canada for example, then the best solution would be to get BICSI qualifications from the word go. CNet is the only BICSI licensed training provider operating in the resettlement field and as such we can offer BICSI qualifications as part of your resettlement package.
