The Retail industry offers a varied selection of jobs and businesses to work for. General duties for Retail Sales Assistants include liaising with clients, maintaining stock levels and processing sales, although duties can vary depending on the type of outlet.

Retail Sales Assistants work in a variety of outlets, from computer stores to fashion outlets and in a number of different locations, from High Street stores to Retail Parks. Working conditions are comfortable – most shops are bright and airy although bear in mind you will be expected to spend a lot of time on your feet. Generally the working hours are good but are likely to include some work in the evenings or at weekends.

If you have a keen interest in retail, are easy going and would love being around people then this is the course for you.

Whether you are currently working or looking for employment, joining the Retail course will help you to succeed in the retail industry.

The course is interesting and includes both theory and practical elements. Examples of the kind of activities you will do include projects on sales, marketing and advertising, market research, product knowledge, understanding finance, stock control and running your own shop. You will also be taken on visits to major retail outlets and given key skills for job searching, preparing your CV and interview skills.

• Understanding the business of retail.
• Understanding the retail selling process.
• Understanding how individuals and teams contribute to the effectiveness of a retail business.
• Understanding the handling of customer payments in a retail business.
• Marketing & Branding
• Customer Service
• Product knowledge
• Understanding profit
• Handling stock control, rotation & payments
• Entry 3 City & Guilds Retail Skills qualification
• Level 1 City & Guilds in Retail knowledge
• Explore Retail career opportunities
• Work Experience and opportunities to progress onto an Apprenticeship or employment
• Employability Skills
• Develop a trade as well as your personal and social skills
• Personal & Social Development Level 1
• Gain qualifications in Functional Skills. English, Maths & ICT
• Prepare for real work

There are numerous opportunities in the retail industry, you could work in any area that interests you – clothing, beauty, motoring, homewares to name just a few. The pay is average although there are good opportunities to earn high salaries if you are hard working and keen to get on. Generally the hours a

You could also continue to study while you work and progress your career to a position in Retail Management, retail purchasing – generally known as a Buyer or become your own boss and open your own shop.

You do not need any formal qualification to join the course, although having a cheery outlook and enjoying working with people and retail in general will be a bonus.

The course is free of charge and in certain cases you may be eligible for help towards your travel costs.

Once you have successfully completed the training you will be awarded the Level One Diploma in Retail as well as certificates in Functional Skills, Personal and Social Development and Employability.

Interested in this course? Then why not get in touch with Ridgemond to find out more. Courses start throughout the year so it’s never too late. Simply fill in the form below, call or drop us an e mail and we’ll get straight back to you.