Apprentices Go Back To School
To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, on Monday 6th February 2012, Intermediate (Level 2) and Advanced (Level 3), TyneMet College Apprentices studying on the Business Administration programme visited one of TyneMet’s feeder schools, John Spence Community High School, to share their positive working experiences and explain the benefits of becoming an Apprentice, whilst focussing on the aspects of vocational training for pupils looking for alternative route to A levels.
Some of the Apprentices were of a similar age to the year 11 pupils at the session so they were able to relate to the challenges facing the year 11’s at the moment. They talked about how this time last year they were unsure of which path to take, but since starting the Apprenticeship programme they have gained a wealth of experience in the work place and will have a qualification and a more than likely a job to complement this at the end of the programme.
One of the Advanced Apprentices, who completed her Level 2 programme last summer, explained that just because you become an Apprentice doesn’t mean that you can’t go to university. When she completes her Level 3 programme she will have the qualifications which allow her to access Higher Education, just as if she has stayed on at 6th form, the difference being that she has been working, earning a wage, and learning skills and a trade which will put her above other candidates when she has finished university.
The lively session was enjoyed by all participants and the Apprentices answered questions relating to how Apprenticeships work, where they are employed and about their experience of learning at the College.
Levels 2 and 3 of the Business Administration Apprenticeship programme cover areas such as, The Principles of Effective Communication, Contracts of Employment, Equality and Diversity, Health and Safety, Risk Assessments, Innovation and Change and Planning and Reviewing.
Pat Blyth, Business Development Consultant, TyneMet College, said:
“It is important that school pupils are informed of all of their future education and training options so that they and their parents can make an informed decision if they are planning to leave school.
At TyneMet we are able to give excellent advice and guidance to pupils who are thinking of leaving school. We advise pupils and parents to gather as much information as they can before making any decision, however we do realise that this is a confusing time for all involved.
Our Employer Engagement Team is responsible for helping those who want to know more about how to become an Apprentice and also supporting organisations when they are thinking of expanding their workforce by taking on a new Apprentice or those who have existing staff who would benefit from an Apprenticeship qualification.”
The next start date for the Level 2 and 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship programme will be in March. For further information regarding this or any other Apprenticeship course at TyneMet College, please contact our Employer Engagement Team on 0191 229 5179 or email business@tynemet.ac.uk
