It's decision time for teenagers – but practical help is at hand

The formula has been released by Lifetime, a training provider in Leeds, as part of its Decision Day campaign.

Dr Arnall, a former Cardiff University lecturer and researcher, has created a formula of six variants: (V) views of family and friends, (I) independence, (E) examination timing, (Wpe) work placement experience, (A) attitude and (P) panic. It shows Decision Day would fall on the last Monday in June each year.

"The decision as to which training course or job to choose is clearly one of major importance. Students and their parents want to know that the selected course or workplace fits in line with their career aspirations and will provide sufficient stimulation, challenge, satisfaction and income in the future. What is also highly valuable to current students and their parents is the confidence that the training provider or workplace will supply high quality work-ready skills that are adaptable in the marketplace and attractive to prospective employers."

Additional research by Lifetime found that just seven per cent of parents say their teenagers have identified their career of choice and are training towards it. The poll, which questioned parents of teenagers aged 14-18 in Leeds, also found that one in three say low cost and free training to get on the career ladder is one of the most important factors to teenagers when planning their future career.

Nigel Wallace, director of training at Lifetime, says: "Whilst some young people have already made up their minds, there seems to be many more who haven't yet decided what career path they intend to pursue. What most do know, however, is that they need to find a course or job that is highly relevant to their career goals and provides them with the right level of education.

"It is also interesting to see that many young people crave independence. Self employment is highly attractive to them because of the freedom and flexibility associated with being 'your own boss'.

"Thanks to various shows like Dragons' Den and The Apprentice, young people are inspired by business role models to become independent and responsible for their own lives."

Lifetime is offering a free advice service for teenagers in Leeds thinking of training for a career in active leisure. Call on 0870 120 1209 for details or visit www.lifetimehf. co.uk for information on Lifetime's range of apprenticeships.