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Occupational Awards
Provide you with the knowledge and skills you need for a specific job. They tend to be very practical and are normally taken in a working environment.
NVQ (National Vocational Qualification)
There are over 900 NVQs ranging from travel services to key cutting. There are five levels of NVQ and most 16 to 19 year olds start on levels 1 to 3 depending on experience and qualifications.
NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) are nationally recognised qualifications based on standards connected to your performance within a proper working environment. They show employers that you are committed to your work and are seen as an appropriate and relevant qualification for building a career. Employers greatly value NVQs because they prove you can do a job to the standards their businesses require.
For further information on NVQs, click here.
Assessment
There are few formal exams but you will need to do some paperwork to show you have the skills needed to do the job
What are Key Skills?
Key Skills are vital for you to succeed in work and life. As part of your Apprenticeship you will be given help to develop your key skills which include:
· Working with other people - teamwork
· Communicating effectively
· Improving your learning and performance
· Working with computers and IT
· Problem Solving
· Application of numbers
Technical Certificates
Recent changes to Apprenticeships include the gradual introduction of technical certificates to many of the training frameworks over the next few years. These will strengthen the knowledge and understanding of apprentices. These technical certificates will be part of the assessed programme of off the job learning. Training Providers will be able to advise if and when technical certificates will form part of any particular Apprenticeship framework.
How do I apply?
Think about what it is you would like to do. Talk to people you trust for their opinions and advice. Talk to your Careers Adviser about the training and work you are interested in. Think carefully about your future and make the decision you think is right for you.
When you have made a decision contact one or more of the Training Providers who have the expertise in your chosen area (use the table provided in this pack). They will ask you to complete an application form or arrange selection tests and an interview with them.
Guide for Parents or Guardians
Apprenticeships are a training initiative managed by the Learning and Skills Council. Their aim is to prepare young people for the modern workplace. The main benefit is that young people will be trained to industry standards while working for an employer and will also be working toward NVQs that are nationally recognised by employers. There are five levels of NVQ, and level 3 is generally considered to be equivalent to two A levels.
While on training, the apprentice is continually reviewed to ensure that both parties are satisfied with their progress. A learning plan will also be agreed which will clearly show what the apprentice will be doing.