Worcestershire residents who are keen to learn about working with children can benefit from a free introductory programme organised by the Worcestershire County Council's Early Years and Childcare Service.

The 'Choices' programme is appropriately named as it provides information on a number of careers available to people wishing to work with children, young people and their families. This free programme covers the range of employment opportunities available, provides practical information from people working in the sector and advice on how training can be accessed. It also identifies the next steps required by individuals who decide that they want to pursue a career in this sector.

This free 10 hour introductory programme is available at different venues throughout Worcestershire. To find out the venue of the next session in your area visit www.earlyyearsandchildcare.org.uk or call 01905 790560.

Andrea Williams, Workforce Support Team Co-ordinator, said: "This programme is a great opportunity for Worcestershire residents to learn about a possible future career, all completely free of charge. There are so many benefits to working with children, young people and their families, not least the personal satisfaction of being in a rewarding job.

People may be surprised at the number of options available and following the programme, they should be more aware of the career path that would best suit them. The feedback that we have received from attendees of the 'Choices' programmes has been positive and people have gone on to enjoy working with children."

For further information, contact the Children's Information Service on 01905 790560 or visit www.earlyyearsandchildcare.org.uk You can also visit the Children's Information Service's stand at the 'Every Child Matters Careers Fair' for people looking to work with children, young people and their families which is being held at Fownes Hotel on 8 June 2006.