Work-based learning offers young people the chance to combine learning with real work experience. Work-based learning is offered through Training Providers.

Real Jobs - Real Training - Real Apprenticeships
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The kind of work-based learning available is outlined in more detail below. There is also a list of Training Providers who offer work-based learning in and around Sandwell.

Types of Work-Based Learning

APPRENTICESHIPS

An Apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications while you work, rather than separately at school or college.

Together, Sandwell Training Providers offer a choice of over 40 occupational areas - from plumbing to photography, childcare to catering, administration to agriculture. All offer a real work environment with an employer.

Most Apprentices work towards an NVQ at Intermediate Level 2 and also complete Key Skills in Communication, Application of Number and ICT. They also receive training at a local training centre to achieve a Technical Certificate qualification.

Advanced Apprenticeship - If you have the necessary GCSE results, you could take up an Advanced Apprenticeship, which again includes Key Skills and a Technical Certificate but gives you the chance to achieve an Advanced Level 3 NVQ.

Student Apprenticeships - You can spend one day a week in a work placement gaining qualifications such as NVQ and Key Skills. You spend four days a week at school or college gaining additional qualifications: A/AS level, BTEC, GCSE.

For more information about Apprenticeships please visit the Apprenticeships website

To see what Apprenticeships may be available in the West Midlands click here

To search for Apprenticeship Vacancies please click here

For a quick guide on 'Applying for Apprenticeships' click here and for 'Top Tips Applying on Apprenticeship Vacancies' click here

ENTRY TO EMPLOYMENT ( e2e )

e2e is ideal if you are unsure about which career to follow, as it gives you on-the-job-training, practical skills, team building and help with English and maths. It helps you to move onto a full Apprenticeship programme.

Applications and Assessment

Training Providers assess young people through interviews (and sometimes basic skills tests), looking at literacy and numeracy skills. This isn't designed to catch you out; it's simply to give the Training Provider a chance to see if you are suited to the programme you're applying for.

Support

Each Training Provider offers a wide range of learning resources and support including:

. Printed and electronic learning materials
. Access to computers and the Internet
. Fully qualified assessors, trainers and mentors
. Photocopying facilities and advice on copyright rules
. Additional courses to complement your main qualification

Visit the Black Country Training Group website