New drive offers employers support with work-based learning
A DRIVE to help more employers benefit from work- based learning is underway.
Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is contacting more than 200 companies as part of a campaign to support employers to make the most of apprenticeships.
Head of employer services at SDS Marion Beattie said: ‘ Having listened to employers, a recurring message is that more emphasis on work- based learning will support skills an innovative, inclusive and growing economy.
‘Apprenticeships are the key product supporting work- based learning, enabling people to earn a wage and gain industry- recognised qualifications.’
Growing family
Already, more than 15,000 employers support more than 25,000 new apprenticeship places each year. However, the apprenticeship family in Scotland is growing.
SDS is committed to work- based learning and supporting Scottish Government increased targets for modern apprenticeships from 25,000 each year to 30,000 each year by 2020.
New foundation apprenticeships allow pupils to complete elements of an apprenticeship while still at school.
And graduate level apprenticeships provide work- based learning opportunities for employees up to Masters- level.
Ongoing support
To ensure employers benefit fully from the range of skills development and apprenticeships available, SDS’s employer engagement team is contacting more than 200 companies.
Marion said: ‘ During the coming weeks and months, SDS colleagues will offer help to companies to ensure they are what we are calling “work- based learning ready”.
‘Support will be provided on an ongoing basis and offered to further companies following the initial 200.
‘ The initial 200 represent a range of companies in terms of sectors and geographic locations across Scotland, who will all be significantly impacted by the apprenticeship levy.
‘However, the evolving demands of employers, the rising expectations of young people and the introduction of the apprenticeship levy makes this a key time to support employers through the changing work- based learning landscape.’