Adult Apprenticeships
Engineering, hospitality and construction companies across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight took part in an 18 month pilot adult apprenticeship scheme in 2005 to help those aged over 25 improve their skills on the job.
The scheme, which was funded by the Learning & Skills Council in Hampshire & the Isle of Wight through the Marine, Engineering and Manufacturing Partnership, has since been expanded to give marine engineering companies the chance to increase skills in their workforce, with more adult apprenticeship spaces up for grabs.
This new wave of intakes, which started on the mainland and on the Isle of Wight between March and June this year, have the same level of support as the pilot project, with a dedicated mentor, who has worked to ensure students have the support and guidance they need to complete the course.
The new scheme is also tied in with IBP’s job brokerage to help companies that are looking to fill a vacancy but are not able to find anyone with the necessary skills. Companies are matched with a suitable applicant who has requested work within the marine engineering sector and are then trained up to NVQ level 2 and possibly up to level 3.
Ian Smith of IBP Training & Employment, who has been managing the scheme, is delighted with the level of commitment that students have demonstrated: “the results from the initial pilot have been amazing, with both candidates and employers showing incredible levels of commitment. These mature learners know what to expect from the workplace, and with the additional support at college, they have been well placed to succeed. Companies have been rewarded for their commitment with a better skilled and motivated workforce.”
Success rates for the pilot project are impressive. 86% of candidates achieved NVQ level2 in a variety of engineering disciplines; seven of these candidates went on to complete a NVQ level 3, with a success rate of 100%. These success rates surpass similar national advanced and foundation programmes.
The impact of the mentor in achieving these results was significant. Their role often involved intervening with employers to maintain the right mix of on and off-the-job training. They were also vital in directing apprentices through the forgotten world of coursework and college classrooms.
Marine engineering companies interested in finding out more about the adult apprenticeship scheme should contact Karen Jackson at IBP Training & Employment on 023 8065 2562