Don't miss out on the benefits of taking on an apprentice
Apprenticeship programmes are designed around individual business needs and timetables, allowing employers to mentor and the college to train the employee.
The college already specialises in providing award winning public sector apprenticeships and has recently expanded its apprenticeship training programme, a framework that combines a qualification with a flexible mix of on the job training and theory work for a set period, usually a calendar year.
College staff explore which qualification is best suited to an employer’s vacancy, develop the vacancy advertisement and then use the college’s recruitment tools and contacts to find the right applicant. Help is also provided with short listing and candidate interviews. 16-18 year old apprentices, paid a wage, are supported by Government funding; Employers agree to share the costs of training those over 19.
Two apprentices hired by The Lancaster School in Westcliff, which caters for up to 70 students aged 14-19 with a range of complex support needs, are working towards an Apprenticeship framework in Health and Social Care.
Holly Bellamy, 18, who has previously worked in customer relations and volunteered with MENCAP, said: “I heard about these opportunities through Connexions and went into the college. It’s been excellent, very rewarding and exciting.”
Kieran Baker, aged 21, said: “I’ve always wanted to get into this line of work so I love it. I just feel like I’m doing something worthwhile. We’re kept informed by the college and the tutor for our lessons is good. I’d like to go on to university and perhaps train to be a special needs teacher.”
Acting Head Teacher Rachel Dennis said: “This is the first time we’ve taken on apprentices and it’s working very, very well. Our apprentices have settled into their roles and this is being enhanced by their training. I’d encourage any employer to consider giving a young person an opportunity of becoming an apprentice,”
For more information on how to get involved in the college’s apprenticeship programme, call 01702 445736 or e-mail trainingforbusiness@southend-adult.ac.uk
