[L3nny]

If you start at the bottom rung on IT ladder you'd probably be on a helpdesk, you don't usually need any qualifications or IT certificates for this. Depending on the helpdesk you work on this can be quite interesting but can also be very boring.

I assume you have good customer service skills as you have worked in retail which can be more important that IT skills as these can usually be picked up quite quickly and you'll be first line support so if you are stuck with something there will always be someone who you can ask for help.

If you get in with a good company they will pay for you to attend courses and that will help you further your career.

The downside is starting pay is quite low (about 16k) and you may have to work unsociable hours (i work nights and weekends and do 12 hour shifts)

Just noticed you are in London so the pay will prob be a bit more, but there will also be more competition for jobs .

If you do take any courses let me know how you get on as I am looking into doing some of these myself.