Apprentice Work Placements

We have commenced partnerships with organisations such as Kingston College, Inspire ATA etc. to look for opportunities to provide Apprentices who need work experience as part of their studies with placements at the school. This has mutual benefit to the pupil who needs to apply studies to the practical workplace, whilst also introducing them to the disciplines of the workplace and benefit to the school in providing some additional resources to help out around the school.

Aims

Build Community Links between the School and Wider Community.

Give students vital work placements related to their course studies.

Help the school with project work needing resources.

Success will be demonstrated by motivated students with good attendance at the school

Project completion at the school

Student feedback as to the skills developed (eg Teamworking, Communications, Practical skills (related to their studies)

A flow of students being interested in working in the school in future.

Background

The School Bursar wrote to local colleges to see if mutual partnerships were possible. Initial contact was made in September 2021. Additional Apprentice organisations have been approached since, AInspire ATA are the latest addition we are working with.

Resources

Initially up to 3 students were being offered places on a termly basis. The students will be working around the school using school tools and resources to complete maintenance tasks. Access to school IT systems may be needed.

Travel Expenses and school contribution for hours worked is being given.

Full Time apprentices also now being considered to study alongside the placements.

Impact

In the early stages, the arrangements are monitored each week, and fed back to the suppliers on a half termly basis. Ongoing monthly monitoring then takes place.

Pupil Involvement

The pupils will interact with the Apprentices in the various roles they undertake. In a small school all staff members will interact with pupils.

Frequency

We aim to keep these partnerships going as long as they continue to provide mutual value.