Programme Information
Lakes College offers both Intermediate and Advanced Apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships are available to anyone over 16 and not in Full Time Education unless they already hold a qualification above Level 3. As an Apprentice you will undertake a combination of work based learning and training. This normally consists of a competency based element (NVQ/Diploma at Level 2 or 3) which is achieved in the workplace together with a knowledge based element. Dependant on occupational area, the latter will be delivered either in the workplace or on day release in the college. The apprentice will also undertake Functional Skills in Maths and English.
Depending on the occupational area and the level of the programme the Apprenticeship will last from 1 to 4 years.
A range of occupational areas are available including:
- Active Leisure & Learning
- Brickwork
- Business Administration
- Catering
- Childcare
- Customer Service
- Electrical Installation
- Hairdressing
- Health & Social Care
- Horticulture
- ITQ
- Joinery
- Mechanical Engineering
- Motor Vehicle
- Painting & Decorating
- Plumbing
- Retail
- Supporting Teaching & Learning
- Team Leading
All learners are employed status and will receive a minimum training wage of £2.50 per hour. Apprentices are entitled to the same benefits as other employees and, as skills develop, it is expected that pay will increase.
We believe the programme delivery is a partnership between the student, employer and tutor. Together we will work on developing a programme that meets all the parties’ needs and we will continually monitor and review the apprentice’s progress to ensure that the set goals are met.
Qualifications
In addition to featuring a Vocational Qualification, demonstrating competence and a knowledge based element, providing underpinning theory, Apprenticeships can also feature a range of qualifications in transferable skills. In addition to Functional Skills in Maths and English, some apprenticeships require an additional Functional Skill in ICT. Apprentices will also undergo training in Employee Rights and Responsibilities and Personal Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS)
There are excellent career progression opportunities with many apprentices going into highly skilled jobs or higher education.
Facilities
The £11 million state of the art site includes many brilliant facilities for the student including, the Learning Resource Centre with over 100 on-line computers, a superb library and plenty of study space.
The building also includes a café, shop, beauty treatments, workshops, art and design studios and a fantastic range of sports facilities including a fitness suite, sauna, multi use games area, sports hall and outside football and rugby pitches.
Student Life
Student life is very exciting at Lakes College West Cumbria; there is always something going on for everybody.
All activities are advertised so that all students can take part if they so wish. Events include charity fundraising, contributing to the College Newspaper, lunchtime activities and day/shopping trips all over the UK. The Student Association, which is made up from students, organise many social, cultural and educational events throughout the year.
Support
When you join us, you will be allocated a Training Advisor to help you achieve your training plan and co-ordinate your programme, whatever your needs.
They will regularly review your progress and support you throughout the course.
