With National Apprenticeship Week this month the focus has of course been on the benefits of becoming an apprentice. But what if you don’t have the qualifications, experience, or confidence to become an apprentice?
A traineeship effectively helps a 16-24 year old become ‘work ready’ so they have the skills needed to take that first step in their career as an apprentice or going directly into the workplace. This is an incredibly important opportunity for young people as a survey conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce in 2014 showed that 88% of businesses think school leavers are unprepared for the workplace.
76% of these think this is due to a lack of work experience, which is the first element of a traineeship. As a learner, you will be placed with an employer who can teach you about the working environment and what is expected of you in a job role. You will also see the day to day running of a business and learn about the local economy and business community.
A further 57% say a lack of skills such as communication and team working were hindering young people’s chances of beginning their career. Training is the second element of a traineeship as a learner will be taught skills such as interview techniques, CV writing, prioritising a workload, communication skills and much more. A traineeship can also offer English and Maths support; two important subjects employers’ value when considering their applicants.
It was for these reasons that 27% of firms surveyed went on to admit they had not recruited a young person in the previous 12 months. This is why opportunities such as traineeships are so important for young people to learn the skills needed to be successful.
During a traineeship, time will be split between the workplace and training. After completing a traineeship, you may have the opportunity to apply for a job for your employer if one is available, and if you have shown dedication to the role and the company. Even if a role is not available, you will have built up local connections through your employer, and have experience to add to your CV.
A traineeship varies in length of time; Aspire Training Team offer traineeships that last around 12 weeks with learners working at least 16 hours a week. This time is unpaid but some employers will agree to pay travel and food costs. We work with a variety of employers and can offer traineeships in careers such as working in IT, customer service, business administration, childcare, health and social care and many more. To find out more about the traineeships that Aspire Training Team offer, you can contact the team on 01202 551553 or email info@aspiretrainingteam.co.uk.
