About Apprenticeships
What’s Involved ?
Apprenticeships are a structured learning programme to gain nationally recognised qualifications whilst in employment. Apprentices earn a wage and work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. Each Apprenticeship will involve an element of work-based learning, and sometimes this will require attendance at a college or private training provider. They are open to anyone living in England, over 16 and not in full-time education.
Every Apprenticeship programme contains a range of different qualifications chosen to suit the requirements of the business. These usually include Functional Skills; QCF's and Technical Certificates.
Functional Skills are practical skills in 3 areas; English; Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Mathematics. They allow individuals to work confidently, effectively and independently. Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCFs) are work-related, competence-based qualifications. They are assessed in the work place and show that the employee has the knowledge and skills needed to do the job. A Technical Certificate is a college based qualification, providing extensive up-to-date knowledge in a chosen area of study.
There are three levels of Apprenticeship; an ‘Apprenticeship’ which is Level 2, ‘Advanced Apprenticeship’ which is Level 3 and a ‘Higher Apprenticeship’ which is a level 4.
What We Do
The South West Apprenticeship Company Ltd (SWAC) recruits bright, enthusiastic young people eager to become SWAC apprentices. We screen all applicants, conduct assessments to measure potential, and match them to your business and needs. We then provide you with a shortlist of suitable candidates to interview and choose from.
SWAC removes risk by directly employing the apprentices. SWAC apprentices are placed with ‘Host Organisations’ for the duration of their SWAC Apprenticeship. We identify employers who want apprentices, match them with suitable candidates and organise delivery of the necessary training with colleges or private training providers.
We plan, manage and administer the programme, and provide continual support and progress monitoring of your SWAC apprentice. We ensure things run smoothly and resolve any problems to make placements successful for both the apprentice and Host Organisation.
SWAC aims to help 16-24 year olds find Apprenticeships in the South West. Those within this age group are usually eligible to have training paid in full or part by the government.