You could do a college course, which may help you to find a trainee job. Courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in IT Support
• Level 3 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and computing

You could do an Information Communications Technician or Digital Support Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

You would learn how to install equipment and software, how to handle incidents and deal with requests for help.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You could start work as an assistant IT technician after taking GCSEs or A levels and train on the job.

You'll need:

• the ability to repair machines or systems
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• problem-solving skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

In this role you could:

• cost and install new IT systems to meet security regulations
• upgrade existing hardware, software and networks
• document systems so others can provide ongoing support
• set up new PCs for people and train staff
• carry out on-site maintenance to prevent future problems
• log and prioritise faults and queries
• fix faulty equipment and testing systems
• put back-up systems in place

You could work in an office, at a client's business, at a training centre, at a university or at a college.