Ryton Parents – Year 9 Options – Young Apprenticeship (YA)

A Young Apprenticeship is available in Construction, Hair or Motor Vehicle Studies.

The Young Apprenticeship allows motivated and able students to study for vocational qualifications not just in the classroom but in college, with training providers and in the workplace too. Students are based in school, and follow the core national curriculum subjects, although they will also spend time out of school working towards nationally recognised vocational qualifications delivered by Gateshead College. Young Apprenticeships are a long-term development and the government intends them to become a permanent feature of secondary education.

It is envisaged that this opportunity will be limited to a small number of students. While it is likely that Construction, Hair and Motor Vehicle YA programmes will all be available these courses are subject to final confirmation from the local area partnership. The programme contributes to a more personalised approach to teaching and learning and is aimed at students who are capable of obtaining 5 GCSE A*-Cs or equivalents. It is an option for students who are attracted to a more practical style of learning.

Students who choose this programme would be interested in following a career in Construction, Hair or Motor Vehicle industry. It is essential that students selecting this route be willing to participate in activities that would extend beyond the school day where this is necessary.

Students recruited for the phase starting in September 2010 will:

· follow a programme of study with an employer, training provider or college (or a combination of two or three), using work experience to contribute directly to the programme of study, probably through portfolio work. Wherever possible, study will be practical and applied, with an expectation of about 50 days work experience or equivalent over the two years of Key Stage 4.

· learn through a combination of classroom delivery and direct application in the business sector. Both teachers and experienced employees or trainers will share the responsibilities for teaching.

· gain a taste of ‘real work’ in a supported way, and lay the foundations for a possible post-16 apprenticeship whilst retaining the full range of options for future training or study.

· be able to access advice and guidance to help make the right choices before, during and at the end of the scheme.

Contact: Mr W. Kennedy or Mr N. Gibson