Posted 22.01.2020

The first NI Apprenticeship week will take place from 3 to 7 February 2020.

Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2020, launched by The Department for the Economy, is a new initiative in Northern Ireland and offers an opportunity through a dedicated week of events and promotional activity to demonstrate how apprenticeships work for individuals, businesses, communities and the wider economy.

If you’re interested in learning about apprenticeships, find out what events are happening in your area. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/apprenticeship-week-events

 

How Disability Action can help you get on the Apprenticeships Programme

Do you want to earn while you learn, work alongside experienced staff, receive off-the-job training and gain qualifications? If so the Apprenticeships Programme could be for you.  Disability Action promotes diversity and inclusion within apprenticeships. If you are disabled and thinking of taking part in the Apprenticeships - Disability Action can provide support and services for Apprenticeships. Contact Tony Carmichael [email protected] or Karen Smith [email protected]. 

 

Apprenticeships explained

The Apprenticeships programme offers training, across a wide range of apprenticeships, to people aged 16 and over. Terms and conditions apply if you are 25 years and over.

What is an apprentice?

As an apprentice you will be a new or existing employee, in a Northern Ireland-based company, working with experienced staff to learn and develop your skills.

An apprentice also receives ‘off-the-job’ training, usually on a day-release basis with a training provider, to work towards achieving vocational qualifications and Essential Skills qualifications (reading, writing, maths and computers).

Your training provider will meet with you and your employer to discuss your training needs and will then develop a training programme for you. They will be with you every step of the way throughout your apprenticeship to support you and make sure you are making progress.

Usually you are with the employer four days a week and with the training provider one day a week. Your employer will pay you for your time spent with the training provider.

The above is an extract from the NI Direct web site. Read more https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/apprenticeships-explained

Katie from George Best Belfast City Airport talks about her apprenticeship as a firefighter. 

For employers

If you want to take on an apprentice or improve the skills of your employees to help your business work better, the Apprenticeships programme could be for you. Contact Tony Carmichael [email protected] or Karen Smith [email protected].