Gateshead Collective tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2011://1 2011-08-03T10:14:57Z Movable Type 4.23-en Get an App - i Pad winner tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2011://1.52 2011-08-03T09:46:28Z 2011-08-03T10:14:57Z The Which Way Now - Get an App Event recently held at the Metro Centre was a great success with hundreds of interested people coming along to find out more about Apprenticeships and getting paid while you learn the skills... David Leahy The Which Way Now - Get an App Event recently held at the Metro Centre was a great success with hundreds of interested people coming along to find out more about Apprenticeships and getting paid while you learn the skills you need. The lucky winner of the iPad was Jamie McEwen of Ryton who was presented with his prize by Susan Briganti. For more information about Apprenticeships please contact The Collective on 0191 490 4640. Which Way Now? - Get An App! tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2011://1.51 2011-06-24T10:16:48Z 2011-06-24T10:35:34Z The Metro Centre 9am - 7pm Saturday 2nd July 2011. Which Way Now? - Get An App! is where you can find out more about Apprenticeships and getting paid while you learn the skills you need. Come Along and win... David Leahy The Metro Centre 9am - 7pm Saturday 2nd July 2011. Which Way Now? - Get An App! is where you can find out more about Apprenticeships and getting paid while you learn the skills you need. Come Along and win an iPad!
  • Find out what's involved in doing an Apprenticeship.
  • Get advice on how to apply for Apprenticeship vacancies.
  • Speak to apprentices and find out what they think.
The Collective, a group of leading Gateshead based learning providers, will be at Town Square, Metro Centre 9am - 7pm Saturday 2 July 2011]]> Collective Partners tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2011://1.19 2011-03-29T15:01:39Z 2011-05-13T14:49:05Z the Collective is an exciting partnership made up of ten leading work based learning providers based in Gateshead. Formed in 2003, this unique collaboration is the first of its kind in the North East. Together, these training providers work with... Access Training Gateshead College General Physics Rathbone UK Neeta Ltd TDR Training Ltd ITEC North East Van Hee Access Training Centres Gateshead Adult Learning and Skills ]]> The shared vision of collective partners is to work in partnership to provide individuals and employers with the highest quality and widest range of work based learning provision in the North East Partners have agreed that the purpose of the Collective is to: • Grow our market • Create synergies between partner organisations to add value, create efficiencies and generate additional revenue • To provide a focal point for provision - improving the image and perception of Work Based Learning • To influence the Learning agenda across Tyne and Wear, particularly within Gateshead The Collective does not hold training / delivery contracts and its income is derived from: • Members fees and contributions • External funding for collaborative activities (joint bids for single programme, LSC funds etc) The Collective has a formal constitution, which embraces its values. Members have developed a business plan including a clear accommodation strategy and policies for collaboration across sectors. The Collective is always open to expanding membership to any other Gateshead - based Training Provider If you are interested in becoming a member please contact David Leahy Collective Co-ordinator on 0191 490 4640 or e-mail info@gatesheadcollective.co.uk Schools tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2007://1.18 2011-03-29T14:59:06Z 2011-05-13T14:49:50Z Why choose the Collective The Gateshead Collective is a partnership of leading Work Based Learning providers based in Gateshead. We currently provide services to over 20 schools in the Tyne & Wear area, and we would like to expand this... Why choose the Collective The Gateshead Collective is a partnership of leading Work Based Learning providers based in Gateshead. We currently provide services to over 20 schools in the Tyne & Wear area, and we would like to expand this further. Together the Collective has helped thousands of young people find employment, undertake training and prosper in their chosen career. Many have gone on to become company directors, managers, supervisors and high level technicians. Three of our partners Access Training, ITEC North East and Gateshead College have been awarded Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) status in Business and Management. Similar to Specialist College status, this award recognises particular expertise in a vocational area. Gateshead College also has CoVE status for Automotive Technology & Logistsics. NEETA and Rathbone have particular expertise in helping those young people most at risk of dropping out of learning. TDR Training has been at the forefront of school science and engineering programmes for a number of years. ]]> Help for your school The collective currently provides a number of services to schools in both Gateshead and Tyne & Wear Parents/Careers information evenings We are happy to support your events and discuss with parents and pupils the various options available to them. Open days/evenings The Collective partners host open evenings for young people, parents and teachers to visit the various centres, see facilities available and talk to staff about the various programmes offered. Work-based learning presentations We can visit your school during a PSE lesson, in small tutor groups or during assembly. Saturday Taster Programme sat1.jpg The Collective has successfully run a number of taster programmes since 2005. The aim of tasters is to provide young people with an opportunity to gain practical work experience in a particular occupational area before making important career choices.
The programmes, held on Saturdays 9am - 1pm, consist of practical work experience linked to an NVQ related programme and are open to year 9, 10 and 11 students of Gateshead schools. sat2.jpg Successful students are chosen on the basis of their commitment to learning, their enthusiasm and above all their desire to use the programme as an indicator of whether this occupational area is suited to them. Tasters are currently being delivered in IT - Computer Build by ITEC North East, Hairdressing by NEETA and Motor Vehicle Repair by Gateshead College's Automotive Centre of Excellence. [images: Students displaying their skills on a recent Saturday Taster Programme delivered by NEETA Ltd]
Young Apprenticeships These programmes are aimed at committed and able young people keen to explore a vocational route to higher qualifications. Programmes usually include at least one day per week for two years in a work placement or training centre and will lead to NVQs and other qualifications. The Young Apprenticeship Programme is currently being delivered for St Thomas More and Kingsmeadow Schools in Business Administration through Access Training and ITEC North East and in Engineering for St Thomas More, Joseph Swan and Thomas Hepburn schools through TDR. School Links Programme This programme is ideal for learners between the ages of 14 - 16 who are unsuited for whatever reason to a classroom environment. Usually working on a reduced/flexible school curriculum we will arrange for the learner to work with a suitable employer to develop valuable employability skills through work experience. In addition pupils may work towards key skills, an Employability Award or units of a relevant NVQ qualification. With many years of experience of delivering vocational programmes in a variety of areas, we are well placed to respond to school and individual needs. Your next step Contact the collective and see how we can work together. Telephone us on 490 4640 or e-mail us at info@gatesheadcollective.co.uk ]]> Young People tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2007://1.17 2011-03-29T14:39:15Z 2011-05-13T14:50:52Z When you reach 16 you've got some decisions to make about your future. Should you stay on in full-time education at college or in 6th form? Or would you prefer to start work and get training while you earn. Learn... Learn while you earn If you are aged 16 to 24 and want a job that guarantees excellent training an Apprenticeship could be for you. Apprentices learn on the job - developing skills and knowledge, gaining qualifications and earning money at the same time. ]]> What is an Apprenticeship An Apprenticeship is a programme of learning and qualifications, completed in the workplace that gives you the skills, knowledge and competence you need to progress you chosen career An Apprenticeship is made up of the following: • An NVQ, National Vocational Qualification, which proves your competence in day-to-day work and is assessed in the workplace. • Key Skills which are the soft skills require for work, such as communication, numeracy and working with others. • Technical Certificate which provides and test the knowledge required for the collective can offer a whole range of apprenticeships including:
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If you are already employed and would like follow an Apprenticeship route, the collective can discuss things with your employer. Your next step Contact the collective and see how we can help you Telephone us on 490 4640 or e-mail us at info@gatesheadcollective.co.uk Links www.apprenticeships.org.uk www.edge.org.uk www.connexions-tw.co.uk Not ready for an Apprenticeship, further education or work? If you're 16-18 and are not ready or able to access an Apprenticeship, further education or a job, you may be interested in Entry to Employment (E2E). E2E is a learning programme which through training and support aims to help you build up skills and confidence and progress to an apprenticeship, further education or a job. Following a period of initial assessment, a personal plan is developed for you to follow, with targets to help you to progress. On E2E you are able to apply for an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA). From 30th June 2008 all new entrants on to E2E will be eligible to claim £30 per week. Young people already on E2E prior to 30th June will not be able to re-apply until their current contract expires. In addition, your expenses will be met in full. You'll also get bonuses for starting E2E and for positive outcomes such as completing your training plan, progressing with your learning or gaining a qualification Two Collective partners NEETA and Rathbone have successfully supported hundreds of young people to progress to an Apprenticeship, further education or a job. Your next step If you would like to find out more about E2E please contact NEETA on 0191 490 4686 or Ratbbone on 0191 495 4830 Links www.neeta-ltd.co.uk www.rathboneuk.org www.connexions-tw.co.uk ]]> Employees tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2007://1.16 2011-03-29T14:37:42Z 2011-03-29T12:26:33Z How we can help you the collective can offer work-based training and qualifications to employees aged 16 to 60, in whatever size company. Whatever your job, you can make it better by getting: Planned training in the skills your job... How we can help you the collective can offer work-based training and qualifications to employees aged 16 to 60, in whatever size company. Whatever your job, you can make it better by getting:
  • Planned training in the skills your job needs
  • NVQs, Key Skills and other qualifications recognised by everyone everywhere
  • Better promotion prospects
You can get an NVQ or other suitable qualification for most jobs. the Collective can offer you and your employer support with training in:
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If you're under 25 training is available through an Apprenticeship or an Advanced Apprenticeship. If you're over 25 funding may be available to your employer through Train To Gain or the Adult Apprenticeship Programme. the Collective can carryout a confidential assessment of your interests and abilities to help you plan your training and your future career. Use our expertise to help you decide what's right for you and your company. Your next step Contact the Collective and see how we can help you Telephone us on 490 4640 or e-mail us at info@gatesheadcollective.co.uk]]> Employers tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2007://1.15 2011-03-29T14:28:36Z 2011-03-29T12:25:37Z The Offer Our aim is to link with employers to understand training needs, to provide relevant training and develop a talented workforce for Tyne & Wear and its businesses. Whether you want to train and develop existing staff or take... The Offer Our aim is to link with employers to understand training needs, to provide relevant training and develop a talented workforce for Tyne & Wear and its businesses. Whether you want to train and develop existing staff or take on new people to strengthen your workforce, the collective can help. We will work with you to analyse your individual training needs and to design flexible solutions to meet those needs. Having the right people can make or break a business. How successful and profitable you are depends on the people that work in your business. The Training Developing your existing staff can help to motivate them and help with retention. One of the advantages of the collective is the wide range of programmes we can offer, everything from accountancy to administration, construction to customer care, hairdressing to hospitality, management to motor vehicle repair/service and team leading to transport and logistics. The training is delivered both on and off the job by qualified trainers, using the latest computer based training techniques, and is customised to your needs. We offer Apprenticeships, National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), bespoke short courses and Adult Apprenticeships, all delivered to national standards. Our training is delivered via our specialist vocational training teams. Web Links Apprenticeships NVQs Train To Gain Recruitment We can help you find high calibre, well motivated Apprentices to join your business Our service includes:
  • Advice on staffing needs
  • Screening potential applicants
  • Assisting with interviews
  • Arranging work trials to assess potential applicants
  • searching for staff to meet your individual needs
  • Help you to introduce apprenticeship programmes into your company
the collective can help you find the right people and develop them in the right way. the collective can assist you in accessing a wide range of funding. With funding available through Apprenticeships, Train to Gain and Business Link, we can usually source a solution which meets your needs. the collective will help you develop a team of employees with the skills and qualifications that you need to be successful. Our training solutions are simple effective and developed in collaboration with employers. the collective in is a single point for all your workforce development needs. - a 'one-stop' solution. Some employers currently working with the Collective include Newcastle Football Club, Express Engineering, British Gas, Springfield Motors, Benfield Motors, Sherlocks Hairdressing, Harkers Transport, Gateshead Council and Gateshead Housing Group. Your next step Contact the collective and see how we can help you Telephone us on 490 4640 or e-mail us at info@gatesheadcollective.co.uk]]> Gateshead Council become the 10th member of The Collective. tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2011://1.49 2011-03-29T13:20:02Z 2011-03-29T14:33:44Z We are pleased to announce that Gateshead Council Adult Learning and Skills has joined The Collective.... David Leahy We are pleased to announce that Gateshead Council Adult Learning and Skills has joined The Collective. Adult Learning and Skills aim to remove barriers to learning and support residents of Gateshead to achieve their full potential. More information is available at www.gateshead.gov.uk/adultlearning. ATC join The Collective tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2011://1.48 2011-02-21T13:40:00Z 2011-02-21T13:47:49Z We are also pleased to announce that Access Training Centres Ltd (ATC) has become the ninth partner of the Collective. ATC is a national provider for Apprenticeships, Training and Skills. Founded in 2002 it operates a multi million pound Government... David Leahy We are also pleased to announce that Access Training Centres Ltd (ATC) has become the ninth partner of the Collective. ATC is a national provider for Apprenticeships, Training and Skills. Founded in 2002 it operates a multi million pound Government contract to provide access to training. ATC has grown commercially and in partnership with regional institutions to offer a range of training in a variety of sectors including Health and Social Care and Construction. ATC work with leading companies such as UK Coal, Four Seasons and Sir Robert McAlpine and each year secure hundreds of Apprenticeship placements for candidates. Access gains top award tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2010://1.47 2010-03-22T10:46:54Z 2010-03-22T10:55:22Z Access, a Collective partner has joined an elite band of organisations to achieve the coveted Training Quality Standard (TQS).... David Leahy Access, a Collective partner has joined an elite band of organisations to achieve the coveted Training Quality Standard (TQS). Access, based at the Gateshead Skills Academy, is the first independent training provider in Tyne and Wear to gain the award and become recognised as a top provider of high quality, high impact training to employers. They were presented with the award by Alastair McColl, Chief Executive of Business & Enterprise North East, at their Seaham headquarters. Managing Director, Malcolm Armstrong, commented: "Everyone here has put in a great deal of work to ensure that training programmes through Access really can make a difference to the performance of the businesses we deal with. Being the first independent training provider in Tyne & Wear to achieve this award is tremendous. Our staff can be very proud of their achievements." It is a mark to which training providers aspire because it is tough to achieve and through it, their performance is what really sets them apart from the competition. Apprenticeships - Your questions answered tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2009://1.44 2009-08-19T13:27:08Z 2009-08-19T13:47:20Z If you are 16-18 years old and considering an Apprenticeship or you are an employer interested in offering an Apprenticeship opportunity, the following may help... David Leahy If you are 16-18 years old and considering an Apprenticeship or you are an employer interested in offering an Apprenticeship opportunity, the following may help Frequently asked questions about Apprenticeships 1. What is an Apprenticeship? An Apprenticeship is not just a qualification, but is a package of learning and qualifications combined with practical work experience gained through employment in a chosen industry. Apprenticeships involve a partnership approach. They are designed by industry, developed by businesses, training providers and Sector Skills Councils, and therefore tailored to meet the needs of each specific sector. An Apprenticeship Framework contains the following separate components:  A knowledge-based element which tests the underpinning knowledge (a technical certificate)  A competence-based element (the NVQ type qualification)  Transferable or 'key skills'  A module on employment rights and responsibilities These component qualifications are achieved through:  On the job experience, an apprentice will work alongside other employees and learn the skills of the job working towards a work based qualification such as an National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).  Off the job learning, apprentices spend time with a learning provider, working towards a technical qualification which provides them with the underpinning knowledge and key skills required for their job. This can be on a day or block release basis. Both qualifications are usually at Level 2 or 3 and the amount of time spent studying varies; it can be anything from 100 to 1,000 hours over the course of an Apprenticeship, depending on the sector. Apprentices gain key transferable skills (key skills) - like working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology. 2. What are key skills? These are the essential skills that learners need to support them in their job. They include:  communication;  application of number;  information and communications technology;* *optional  working with others;*  improving own learning and performance;*  and problem solving.* 3. How long do Apprenticeships last? Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships last as long as it takes to achieve competence in the job for which the apprentice is training. This varies by sector and by level but, in general, Apprenticeships last between one and three years. 4. Do apprentices take exams?Most assessment is carried out in the workplace but there maybe a requirement to take some tests depending on the Apprenticeship - the key skills are tested via a short test. 5. Why is it a good idea for employers? Apprenticeships can help businesses across all industries by offering a route to harness fresh new talent. UK businesses consider skills shortages and recruitment difficulties a bigger threat to performance than soaring oil prices and declining consumer spending, and more than a quarter of these rate this form of vocational training higher than any other qualification. Apprenticeships ensure that your workforce has the practical skills and qualifications your organisation needs now and in the future. The mixture of on and off the job learning ensures they learn the skills that work best for your business. Over 130,000 companies offer apprentice places because they understand the benefits that apprentices bring to their business - increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a committed and competent work-force. 6. Is there a cost for employers?All employed apprentices must receive a wage of no less than £80 per week rising in August 2009 to £95. However, recent research found that apprentices earn an average of £170 net pay per week. The highest paying sector is Electro-technical at £210 per week. Where the apprentice is 19 or over, employers are expected to make a contribution towards the cost of training. The contribution does not necessarily have to be a cash payment to the provider but can be other contributions that reduce the cost of delivery. 7. What is the target number of apprentice uptake in England? There are 130,000 employers currently offering apprenticeships, with a target of 1 in 5 young people undertaking an Apprenticeship and an overall target of 400,000 people in learning by 2020. 8. Can apprentices claim additional benefits (such as child care)? For detailed information on claiming benefits, please contact the department for work and pensions. www.dwp.gov.uk/ 9. What industries are Apprenticeships available in? There are more than 180 career choices available in approximately 80 sectors of industry and commerce, ranging from accountancy to football, engineering to veterinary nursing, business administration to construction. They generally fall into one of two categories: 'Apprenticeships', equivalent to GCSE level or 'Advanced Apprenticeships', equivalent to A-levels 10. Are working hours/conditions the same as other employees? Apprentices are employed; they are therefore treated like other employees and are entitled to at least 20 days' paid holiday per year as well as bank holidays. 11. How will taking on an apprentice help firms cope with recession? 59% of businesses report that training apprentices is more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff, with 59% believing that Apprenticeships lead to lower overall training costs and 53% feeling that they reduce recruitment costs. 12. How are potential apprentices vetted? Do employers get a say in the final choice? Yes. The selection process is just like any other job application process and individuals are put through a series of interviews, and in some cases, tests, to establish if they are the right fit for the role. It may be the learner is already employed, so if the employer agrees, they can become an apprentice where they currently work. 13. What is the average age of an appentice? Apprenticeships are open to all age groups (above 16yrs) whether you are just leaving school, have been working for years or are seeking to start a new career. 14. What key factors encourage take up of apprenticeships?Apprentices will earn while they learn and will gain practical and transferable skills whilst keeping their options open. Career progression for apprentices is excellent and over the course of their career they can earn on average £100,000 more than those who don't do an Apprenticeship. Some Apprenticeships already attract UCAS points and the Learning and Skill Council are working with UCAS to extend this system and ensure that the qualifications gained during an Apprenticeship count towards an individual's university application. Depending on the Apprenticeship chosen, they may also study for a Technical Certificate which will give further knowledge and understanding of the job. This might be a BTEC National Diploma or a City & Guilds Progression Award. The apprentices will also learn about communications and application of numbers. These important transferable skills will help them in any job and make them more employable whatever career they choose to follow. Apprenticeships can be demanding but they are very rewarding. Because Apprenticeships train learners in the skills employers want, they give them choices in their career. When the apprenticeship has finished there is the opportunity to carry on working, maybe get promoted or go on to higher education in a college or university. 15. How do you find out what is available in your area? There is lots of information on the Apprenticeship website where you can find out what Apprenticeship places are available or an employer can register and advertise their vacancy: www.apprenticeships.org.uk/ 16. Is there a limit to the number of apprentices that an employer can take on? No they can take on as many as they can afford. The employer will be responsible for giving the apprentice an induction into their role and provide on-the-job training. They are also responsible for the wages of the apprentices. You need to take your own advice in relation to your rights as an employer as an apprentice will be classed the same as your other employees. 17. How often do apprentices attend college? This varies from programme to programme it could be one day, a week, block release or may be 100% work-based 18. Are Apprenticeships a cheap 'labour' option? No. New advances are constantly challenging businesses to keep pace or catch up. Apprenticeships can help your workforce master the latest techniques to fill the skills gaps you have and ensure against those that are likely to arise. By taking on apprentices, you develop the specialist skills you need to keep pace with the latest technology and working practices in your sector. Research recently conducted on behalf of the LSC (Populus. February 2008) to launch the first National Apprenticeship Week revealed:  77% of employers believe apprenticeships make them more competitive;  76% say that apprenticeships provide higher overall productivity;  80% feel that apprenticeships reduce staff turnover;  83% of employers rely on their apprenticeships programme to provide the skilled workers that they need for the future;  Two-thirds of respondents believe that their apprenticeship programme helps them fill vacancies more quickly, whilst 88% believe that apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce.  59% report that training apprentices is more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff, with 59% believing that apprenticeships lead to lower overall training costs and 53% feeling that they reduce recruitment costs;  In terms of the return on investment linked to apprenticeships, 41% say that their apprentices make a valuable contribution to the business during their training period, while a further third (33%) report that apprentices add value within their first few weeks (or even from Day One);  57% report a high proportion of their apprentices going on to management positions within the company.  Over three-quarters of respondents expect apprenticeships to play a bigger part in their recruitment policy in the future. 19. Are there specific skills in demand and are there shortages in different parts of the country? Unlike some sectors, the environmental and land-based sector is distributed across the length and breadth of England. Employers in the sector are currently reporting that high levels of their vacancies are hard-to-fill; however, the sector is becoming increasingly skilled and there is high demand for individuals with skills at an Apprenticeship level. 20. If a company has to make redundancies, aren't apprentices most at risk? No. Apprentices are treated the same as other employees. 21. What advice would you give to an employer who says they would like to help but can't afford to at the moment? The Collective suggests that they find out more details about Apprenticeships so they are fully informed and keep in touch so they receive information on any new developments. 22. Do apprentices take jobs away from 'full time' employees? No. Apprenticeships provide the opportunity for full time/ experienced employees to pass on their skills to the apprentice, therefore maintaining the skills of the workforce and ensuring these are replaced as the workforce gets older. 23. What are the benefits to employers? Apprenticeships ensure that your workforce has the practical skills and qualifications your organisation needs now and in the future. The mixture of on and off job learning ensures they learn the skills that work best for your business. Over 130,000 companies offer apprentice places because they understand the benefits that apprentices bring to their business - increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a committed and competent work-force.  Improve your productivity Because apprentices receive relevant training, they can have an immediate effect and make a real and more meaningful contribution to your business. Their training is 'on the job', so they can directly gain from the skills and experience of those around them.  Motivate your workforce Apprenticeships are available to both new and current employees. As a result of their training, apprentices are highly motivated and eager to know more. The extra responsibility also makes them feel more valued and they are easier to retain in the long term.  Give them relevant training Apprenticeships provide your workforce with expertise that's not only specific to your industry, but also directly relevant to your business. They are literally designed around your business needs by industry specialists who genuinely understand what you do.  Avoid skills shortages Change and innovation are always with us. New advances are constantly challenging us to keep pace or catch up. Apprenticeships can help your workforce master the latest techniques to fill the skills gaps you have and insure against those that are likely to arise. By taking on apprentices, you develop the specialist skills you need to keep pace with the latest technology and working practices in your sector. 24. Are there financial support/incentives to employers especially in the current economic climate? Does the support vary depending on the age of apprentice and does it impact on their wages? If the apprentice is aged between 16 and 18 the Government fully funds the training costs of an Apprenticeship programme. Where the apprentice is 19 or over, employers are expected to make a contribution towards the cost of training. The contribution does not necessarily have to be a cash payment to the provider but can be other contributions that reduce the cost of delivery. ]]> Metro gets Megan's career on track tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2009://1.43 2009-07-03T12:55:04Z 2009-07-03T13:02:25Z Sixth form student Megan Snowdon has grabbed the chance to get her career prospects on track by timetabling some studies with the Tyne and Wear Metro. And thanks to a programme between her school - St. Thomas More in... David Leahy Sixth form student Megan Snowdon has grabbed the chance to get her career prospects on track by timetabling some studies with the Tyne and Wear Metro. And thanks to a programme between her school - St. Thomas More in Blaydon - and training provider Access, the signals look good for the 17-year-old from Lobley Hill. Megan is one of 12 students to be given the chance to experience the real world of work while studying for a recognised qualification through the special arrangement between the school and Access. She said: "I have always felt I would enjoy an administrative job and I am taking a business course at school. But the chance to work in a real office environment with the Metro has been fantastic. It has made me certain that this is what I want to do and given me the chance to gain a Level 2 Business Studies NVQ, all of which should help me find work when I leave education." The St. Thomas More School's tie up with Access offers sixth form students on the Vocational Business course (equivalent to two 'A' levels) an opportunity to complete an NVQ level 2 qualification in either Business Administration or Customer Services, while on a weekly work placement. Each student is interviewed before being allocated a placement with local businesses which, as well at the Metro, include the Marriott Hotel, Rok Engineering, Arco and Lloyds TSB. Claire Rainbow, Head of the Vocational Business Department at the school, said: "We recognise the value of work related learning and through these placements our students are able to develop not only their business skills, knowledge and understanding but also their generic employability skills. This aids their career planning and progression and helps them to grow in confidence. These placements are now a key part of our curriculum and complement the work done in the classroom." John Kear, Metro Safety and Training Standards Manager, added: "We are delighted to be able to help local students wanting to learn more about working life and Megan has been a great asset during her time with us." Stuart Shackleton, Skills Advisor with Access, said: "This is a fantastic programme which not only provides the students with a universally recognised qualification but allows them to get in depth experience of the type of work they have chosen to do when they leave education. This provides them with a platform not only to find employment but also to further vocational learning such as an apprenticeship." The real apprentice! tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2009://1.41 2009-06-16T15:25:33Z 2009-06-16T15:27:39Z Just two days after Sir Alan Sugar hired Yasmina Siadatan as his new apprentice, he came face to face with the real thing when he met an Access apprentice at a major event in Gateshead. Sir Alan is heading up... David Leahy Just two days after Sir Alan Sugar hired Yasmina Siadatan as his new apprentice, he came face to face with the real thing when he met an Access apprentice at a major event in Gateshead. Sir Alan is heading up the national publicity campaign for apprenticeships and was in Gateshead to host the last of 4 national employer events to herald the launch of the National Apprenticeship Service. 16 year old Jade Bruce was one of three apprentices from across the region selected to meet Sir Alan and government ministers, and to answer questions from some of the 300 businesses present at the event, held at Gateshead's Lancastrian Suite. Sir Alan and Under Secretary of State Lord Young both said how impressed they had been with the apprentices they had met, and commented particularly about Jade's background as a Young Apprentice, gaining valuable experience from the age of 14 through the programme delivered by Access, ITEC North East and Kingsmeadow School. Jade, and her employer Laura Fox from Rok Build, impressed everyone so much that they were snapped up for interviews with the press and both featured on BBC and ITV local news later that night. Managing Director of Access Malcolm Armstrong added "we welcome the launch of the National Apprenticeship Service and were pleased to be part of this event. Jade and her employer did an excellent job in explaining the benefits of apprenticeships to those present and then again through the press interviews. It was plain to see how much Jade has developed in the last few years - what confidence and such great communication skills in somebody so young!" For more information about apprenticeships visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk or contact the Access Business Solutions team on 0191 490 4651 MEDICAL CENTRE ENDORSES ADULT APPRENTICESHIPS tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2009://1.37 2009-02-13T14:41:51Z 2009-02-13T14:46:00Z With limited funding Carolyn Power, Human Resources Manager at Seaton Park Medical Group in Ashington, welcomed an approach by ITEC to train staff through government funded Adult Apprenticeships. Facing the challenge of merging two local GP practices, structured vocational training... David Leahy With limited funding Carolyn Power, Human Resources Manager at Seaton Park Medical Group in Ashington, welcomed an approach by ITEC to train staff through government funded Adult Apprenticeships. Facing the challenge of merging two local GP practices, structured vocational training is an excellent opportunity to give her team positive focus, working together for mutual gain and individual achievement for their Level 2 NVQ’s. Staff responsible for reception and prescriptions are studying Customer Service, whilst administrative and medicine management staff are studying Business & Administration. The practice benefits from a member of staff who as an assessor has given invaluable help overcoming initial teething problems, scheduling visits into an established weekly time-slot for staff training and development allowing ITEC’s assessor Mike Holmes, to meet with 15 candidates. Carolyn was delighted as a training practice for GP’s and clinical staff to be able to offer non-clinical staff the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications that were totally relevant to their day-to-day responsibilities. “It’s proving a huge benefit for the practice that staff remain in the workplace and are all able to work at their own pace.” An additional benefit of bonus payments to not only the staff, but also the practice will enable additional future investment into the training budget upon successful completion of each qualification. Rathbone tag:www.gatesheadcollective.co.uk,2007://1.20 2007-11-06T13:27:05Z 2007-11-27T16:33:06Z Please visit the Rathbone UK website... Please visit the Rathbone UK website]]>