"Young Apprenticeships offer pupils the chance to get a taste of real work alongside their school studies"

The Young Apprenticeship Programme (YAP) was launched in 2004 for pupils aged 14-16 as a two-year pilot programme delivered locally through partnerships made up of schools, colleges, training providers, employers and education-business link organisations.

Pupils, who must meet an entry criteria, spend an average of two days a week on the programme over two years studying for recognised qualifications in health and social care, with the remaining three days in the classroom following the core curriculum. Work experience accounts for 50 days over the two years arranged through various types of placement.

Partnerships share responsibility for planning and monitoring the progress of pupils.

Of the 33 H&SC apprentices in Cohort 1, who completed in July 2006, six are now in post-16 apprenticeships and 27 were offered places on a continuation support pilot.

Cohort 4 commenced the programme in September 2007, and there are currently 47 partnerships with more than 1,500 H&SC Apprentices.  Cohort 5 will commence the programme in September 2008

Level 2 and Advanced Apprenticeships

The Health and Social Care Apprenticeship programme is available at Level 2 and Advanced Level.

It is a framework of qualifications and other components which have been identified by employers as providing a valuable route into training and subsequent accreditation. On completion of the framework the Apprentice will be eligible for an Apprenticeship Completion Certificate at the appropriate level (Level 2 or Advanced). 

Adult Apprenticeships

From September 2007 those over 25 are eligible to apply for funding to undertake Adult Apprenticeships. 

The Learning & Skills Council currently manages funding for Apprenticeships, but this will pass to a new department  - the National Apprenticeship Service - by April 2009.

In the South West, the demand for Adult Apprenticeships in Health and Social Care exceeds available funding. However, the participation and completion of an Apprenticeship framework is not restricted to those in receipt of funding

"Employers benefit from the recruitment and retention opportunities connected to the Apprenticeship programmes"

Employing an Apprentice

 Apprentices can make a real contribution to your business. Because their training is on the job the practical skills they gain are the ones that are right for your business.

The Apprenticeships website will give you lots more information, or call 08000 150 400 for your free employers pack

www.apprenticeships.org.uk