New Age Training - Steps 2 Work
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New Age Training delivered flexible learning programmes in Information Technology at Level 1. The project not only focused on the needs of the individual learner, but also included Job Search provision leading individuals to acquire skills, behaviours and attitudes that employers want to see in someone they recruit.
It is important that low-skilled unemployed people have access to flexible training which gives them the skills that employers value, in order to help them initially get jobs and, once in a job, to progress within that job. The programme provided this access and proved to be hugely important for people trapped between dead-end jobs and periods of unemployment. Rural areas of Bedfordshire were principally targeted for the project. However, depending upon the needs of the learners, delivery could take place at any accessible location for the participants.
The aim of the project was to deliver the CLAIT Level 1 course to 10 unemployed people and to incorporate an element of job search in the programme. CLAIT is a nationally recognised qualification which requires a high level of accuracy in the assessment work for the pass standard to be achieved. Using this qualification and the job search activities which accompanied it served as a ‘step to work’ which was the mission and title of the project. Engaging those people least likely to have a go at learning was another aim of the programme, we sought to make the learning relevant, accessible, very visibly supported and endorsed by the key people in the community. Through accomplishing this we matched the NLDC priority by being aimed at ‘hard to reach’ new learners. Our extensive experience in working with and supporting community groups in both rural and urban settings enabled us to develop a staff team both skilled and experienced in meeting the needs of the NLDC target groups. The dual focus of the programme in the development of IT and enhanced employability improved the life chances of those who are low skilled or who have basic skills needs.
The project supported learners to move forward with their journey towards work. It helped them to look for work and for new learning opportunities. The training was informal, flexible and fun in its delivery whilst still maintaining a professional and business-like approach, in order to encourage involvement from all learners, thereby improving their interpersonal skills, both with each other and with staff.
Learners were encouraged to improve their computer and employability skills, with emphasis being placed on the achievement of a nationally recognised qualification, in this case CLAIT Level 1. It was hoped that achievement of this qualification would improve the employment prospects of the participants.
The aims of the project were:
a) To develop a flexible learning package incorporating both employability skills and computer qualifications
b) To target towards those individuals who experience barriers to learning
c) To upskill learners particularly those residing in rural areas
d) To endeavour to create an awareness of the standards and skill levels required in the workplace.
e) To help and support people back into learning and work by opening new doors for those who may have been isolated and excluded in the past.
Job search skills were embedded within the delivery of the programme which also included information on types of work-focused support available to people on benefits to assist learners in their forward journey. Case studies, acquired during our experience of helping other groups, were also used, with a view to boosting self-confidence and employability amongst learners
Each learner was given information on sources of further information and guidance. They also had access to the internet for them to explore what was on offer for work focused support and to enable them to explore the local employment opportunities. Advice was always available to learners who requested help in finding local employment. In addition, a list of trusted websites was available for learners to search for employment. Local newspapers were available to all learners. Learners were encouraged to approach local companies to enquire regarding vacancies, either by telephone or in person.
8 achieved the CLAIT Level 1 qualification.
Contact for this project is:
Mary Ping on 01234 327511
Email maryp@newagetraining.co.uk
