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Apprenticeships
What constitutes a Develop Apprenticeship?
The Develop Apprenticeship is a work-based training programme designed by the Sector Skills Council, for your current and future employees. The programme consists of workplace experience supported by technical training, carried out by Develop at their specialist facilities or partner colleges. The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) provides funding for the training of apprentices.
How are they developed?
Apprenticeships are designed by the Sector Skills Council, with support from business representatives from the relevant industry sector. Together they hold a genuine understanding of your business, which helps them decide on appropriate course content.
Are there different levels of Apprenticeship?
Yes, Develop can offer Apprenticeships at two levels:
- Apprenticeships - NVQ Level 2 (average completion time is 12 months + Technical Certificate)
- Advanced Apprenticeships - NVQ Level 3 (average completion time is 15 months + Technical Certificate)
The Develop Apprenticeship also includes functional skills and theory and practical training courses designed to provide the underpinning knowledge apprentices need to do their job well.
What are functional skills?
These are the essential skills that learners need to support them in their job:
- Communication
- Application of number
- Information and communication technology
- Working with others
- Improving own learning and performance
- Problem solving
Do they lead to further qualifications?
Apprentices can progress to higher education (including university degrees).
What does Develop do?
Throughout an Apprenticeship, Develop will provide continuous support to both you and your apprentices. Assistance will be given to help you decide which Apprenticeship is right for your business.
Develop will also carry out a skills assessment on each apprentice, to devise a suitable programme that will support their development in the workplace. Learning representatives will continuously train and coach apprentices to ensure that they are getting the most out of their programme. What's more, you will be regularly updated on how each apprentice is doing, so that you can monitor their performance.
Develop can also offer a Managed Contracts Service across all Apprenticeships.
What do I need to do as an employer?
An apprentice will be your employee so you need to adhere to good employment practice and law, provide a contract of employment and a safe and supported working environment.
As a supportive employer you will allow time for training and assessment and work with Develop to monitor and plan the apprentices progress. You may decide to appoint a workplace mentor to support and guide the apprentice. We can provide mentor training if required.
Can I get help with funding?
The Learning and Skills Council contributes towards the training costs. The size of its contribution, per individual, varies from £1,500 - £3,000 up to £10,000 - £15,000 depending on your industry sector as well as the age and current qualifications held by the learner. This is paid directly to Develop, unless you are a large employer with a direct contract with the Learning and Skills Council.