Young Apprenticeships
Who is it for?
The Young Apprenticeship programme gives bright and motivated 14-16 year-olds the opportunity to pursue industry specific vocational learning, in partnership with employers and involves extended work experience.
The programme is an additional option for students at key stage 4. Learners are based in school and follow the core National Curriculum and for two days a week they also work towards nationally recognised vocational qualifications (or equivalent) delivered collaboratively with their local Young Apprenticeship partnership.
Key features
One of the key features of the programme is the 50 days work experience element. Students go into the workplace and work alongside employers to gain a real insight into the sector. Currently the Young Apprenticeship programme is being offered across 14 other vocational areas.
The Young Apprenticeship Programme in Health and Social Care has been running since 2004 and so far more than 1600 young people have completed the programme. During the programme the young apprentices experience Health Care, Social Care and the Early Years sector in equal proportion, supported in the workplace by employers who recognise the value of new ways of learning.
On completion
Once they have completed the Young Apprenticeship programme young learners will have a greater understanding of the Health, social care and early years sectors and the career opportunities it can offer; and, it can help them make informed decision about post 16 education. This could be progression into a Foundation or Advanced Apprenticeship; A Levels or a Degree.
Skills for Health's role
Skills for Health and Skills for Care have a custodial role in managing and monitoring the Young Apprenticeship Programme in Health and Social Care. Already the scheme is receiving positive feedback from both young learners, their parents and guardians, schools and employers.
One challenge now is to encourage employers to recruit from this pool of talent as post 16 Apprenticeships are still limited nationally.
Want to know more?
Go to our Young Apprenticeships website – www.yahealthandsocialcare.org.uk
Contact Tracey Nicholson
Project Manager - Young Apprenticeship Programme Health and Social Care.