Apprenticeship Employer Handbook

01270 613 221

Inspiring achievement by delivering outstanding education and skills

Reaseheath College Apprenticeships

EMPLOYER HANDBOOK

Employer Name: Assessor Name: Assessor Contact Number: Assessor Email Address:

FAST FORWARD TO A GREAT CAREER

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 1 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 1

19/07/2019 11:29

At Reaseheath College we aim to: ••Achieve excellence through fully releasing the potential of our students and colleagues ••Deliver inspirational teaching, learning, and overall student experience ••Make Reaseheath the preferred place to work and study, with superb facilities, resources and support for colleagues and students •• Lead and develop partnerships with industry and our communities that make a positive difference ••Be the college, training provider, and employer of choice

Useful Contacts Apprenticeship Enquiry Email: apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk Reaseheath Training Department Switchboard: 01270 613 221 Business Development Team: Option 1 Reaseheath Training Admin Office: Option 2 Main College Reception: 01270 625 131

reaseheath.ac.uk 22 reaseheath.ac.uk RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 2

19/07/2019 11:29

REASEHEATH TRAINING

APPRENTICESHIP MATRIX

These qualifications will be delivered using the new Apprenticeship Standards, for further information please contact us or visit gov.uk Please Note: Sufficeint numbers are required in order for us to run the course.

Sector

Standard

Level

Construction

Plasterer

3

Carpentry and Joinery

2

Advanced Carpentry and Joinery

3

Bricklayer

2

Property Maintenance

Property Maintenance

2

Horse Care - Equine

Equine Groom

2

Senior Equine Groom

3

Veterinary Nursing

Veterinary Nurse

3

Agriculture

Stock Person

2

Crop Technician (Horticulture)

Crop Technician

3

Golf Greenkeeping (Horticulture)

Golf Greenkeeper

2

Horticulture

Horticulture / Landscape Operative

2

Groundsmanship

Sports Turf Operative

2

Butchery

Butchery

2

Advanced Butcher

3

Food and Drink Process Operator

2

Food and Drink Advanced Process Operator

3

Food Technologist

3

Advanced Dairy Technician (Technologist)

5

Bakery

2

Land-based Service Engineer

2

Land-based Service Engineering Technician

3

Rail engineering operative

2

Rail engineering technician

3

Food and Drink

Land-Based Engineering

Rail

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 33 apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 3

19/07/2019 11:29

APPRENTICESHIPS AWARD CEREMONY Our annual Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony is held in November to celebrate the success of the previous year’s apprentices and employers.

‘Save the date’ invitations are sent out prior to the event by the Reaseheath Training administration office.

Nominations for the awards are made by employers and assessors, and are gathered in the months leading to the event. During this time our assessors will be speaking to employers about their apprentices to gain feedback on their progress.

4 reaseheath.ac.uk 4 reaseheath.ac.uk RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 4

19/07/2019 11:29

CONTENTS Apprenticeships What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship Reforms Functional Skills What are the benefits of having an Apprentice?

What is the equivalent to an Apprenticeship?

Who is involved in the Apprenticeship?

Eligibility for an Apprenticeship Employer Data Record Service (EDRS) - Gaining an ERN (Employer Reference Number)

Apprenticeship Standards What are Apprenticeship Standards?

Be Ready- Life matters?

What is Be Ready?

Be Ready Topics

College Policies, Agreements, Responsibilities Apprenticeship Agreement Apprenticeship Commitment Statement Employer Responsibilities Apprentice Responsibilities Independent Learning Reaseheath Responsibilities Workplace visits and reviews E Portfolio Learning Support Centre PREVENT Agenda Safeguarding Health and Safety Equality and Diversity Employer Equal Opportunities Sustainability Appeals Procedure Complaints Procedure Further Reading/ Useful Links- Apprentice Wages, Holiday Entitlement, Lone Working, Employment Contracts, Sick Pay

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 5 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 5

19/07/2019 11:29

Reaseheath College Values:

PRIDE People:

We are passionate about our learners, staff and customers and place them at the heart of all we do by supporting, developing, empowering, encouraging, respecting and valuing their contributions.

Responsibility:

We encourage individuals to be responsible and accountable for their actions and decisions, and we promote community cohesion and environmental sustainability through our behaviour.

Integrity:

We believe in honesty, integrity and the highest ethical standards in everything we do.

Diversity:

We recognise, respect, promote and celebrate diversity.

Excellence:

We challenge ourselves to strive for the highest standards of quality and behaviour by adopting a supportive self-critical approach in our pursuit of excellence.

6

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 6

19/07/2019 11:29

APPRENTICESHIPS

FAST FORWARD TO A GREAT CAREER

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 7 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 7

19/07/2019 11:29

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study.

Apprentices get to: •• Work alongside experienced staff •• Gain job-specific skills •• Earn a wage and get holiday pay •• Study towards a related nationally recognised qualification (usually one day a week and dependent on the requirements within the standard)

Apprenticeships take 1-4 years to complete depending on the level and industry. The Apprenticeship programme provides a mix of on and off the job training and offers a diverse choice of career paths in different sectors and industries.

Apprenticeship Apprenticeship Name: Level:

Equivalent Educational Level:

Intermediate

2

5 GCSE passes at grades A* to C OR 9-4 (GCSE grading)

Advanced

3

2 A Level passes

Higher

4,5, 6 and 7

Foundation degree or above

Degree

6 and 7

Bachelor’s or master’s degree

Who are they for?’

Employers can offer apprenticeships to new entrants or use them to grow talent from among current employees.

Apprenticeships equip individuals with the necessary skills, knowledge and behaviour they need for specific job roles, future employment and progression.

Other benefits that Apprenticeships contribute towards include: •• Increasing employee satisfaction •• Reducing staff turnover •• Reducing recruitment costs

What are the benefits of hiring Apprentices?

Hiring an apprentice is a productive and effective way for any business to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

Employers who have an established Apprenticeship programme reported that productivity in their workplace had improved by 76% whilst 75% reported that Apprenticeships improved the quality of their product or service.

8

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 8

19/07/2019 11:29

Apprenticeship Reforms

The Apprenticeship Levy

Apprenticeships in England are in the process of undergoing a dramatic transformation. As a result of Government reforms, a new style of Apprenticeships has been designed to meet the changing needs of employers, apprentices and providers.

If you’re an employer with a pay bill

Apprenticeships are being rebranded from SASE Frameworks which are being phased out to Apprenticeship Standards. They aim to: •• Give employers control in designing Apprenticeships •• Increase the flexibility of delivery •• Simplify the funding system •• Increase the effectiveness of training Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a crucial way to develop the skills needed by employers and the government have pledged to increase the quality and quantity of apprenticeships in England, reaching 3 million starts in 2020.

The goal is for young people to see apprenticeships as a high quality and prestigious path to successful careers which will give them the best start in life.

Employers are involved in designing apprenticeships so they focus exactly on the skills, knowledge and behaviours that are required of the workforce of the future.

over £3 million a year, you must pay the Apprenticeship levy from 6 April 2017. You will report and pay your levy to HMRC through the PAYE process.

The levy will not affect the way you fund training for Apprentices who started their Apprenticeship programme before 1st May 2017.

They will continue to be funded under the terms and conditions that were in place when they started their programme.

In England, the government will top up employers’ levy with an extra 10%, paid directly to employers’ Apprenticeship accounts.

•• Employers with a pay bill of less than £3 million a year will not need to pay the levy.

•• At least 95% of non-levy paying employers’ Apprenticeship training and assessment costs in England will be paid for by the government. The government will ask these employers to make a 5% cash contribution to the cost, paid directly to the provider, and the government covers the rest (up to the maximum agreed funding band).

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 9 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 9

19/07/2019 11:29

Functional Skills As a mandatory component of the Apprenticeship, learners must complete Functional Skills Qualifications in English, Maths and, where applicable, ICT. Apprentices may be exempt from this, depending on any prior qualifications they have in English, Maths or ICT. Exemptions are as follows: •• Level 1 Functional Skills: Grade 2 or above at GCSE •• Level 2 Functional Skills: Grade 4 or above at GCSE Levels are set according to the following criteria: •• GCSE grade 4 or above – exempt •• GCSE grade 2 or 3 – level 2 Functional Skills required •• GCSE below grade 2 – level 1 Functional Skills required before progressing on to level 2 Functional Skills is usually delivered during 3 x 2-day block sessions at college, consisting of learning followed by an exam, however additional support and small-group learning on a more regular basis is also available.

This is to be supported with revision and independent study in the workplace.

Should your apprentice require Functional Skills, attendance on block days and in exams is a compulsory requirement of their apprenticeship, and employers should work with us to ensure apprentices attend and achieve.

10

We work hard to make Functional Skills enjoyable, relevant and industry-related where possible.

If the apprentice does not attend their agreed and organised Functional Skills exam this is classed as a ‘no show’. The employer will then be charged for the reregistration and administration of £25.00 per Functional Skill missed.

The college will fund up to 2 resits per Functional Skill. After the second resit fail, the employer will be billed the cost for this, which will include any administration/ registration costs.

What are the benefits of having an Apprentice?

What are the benefits to you?

Our aim is to make life easier for you.

•• We can tailor our Apprenticeship training programmes to fit your exact business needs.

•• We help to recruit enthusiastic and capable individuals for your company.

•• We offer individual support and mentoring to ensure that apprentices reach their full potential.

Apprenticeships are available to businesses of all sizes and sectors in England, and can last anything from 12 months to 4 years. They are linked to job roles or occupations – some 1,500 of them across 170 industries, so we make sure that every apprenticeship is relevant and appropriate, both for the apprentice and the business.

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 10

19/07/2019 11:29

Why Apprenticeships?

• Clear return on investment • Greater productivity • Lower recruitment costs • Lower training and retention costs • Increased employee satisfaction • Greater loyalty and quality of work

Who is involved in the Apprenticeship?

APPRENTICE

COLLEGE • Assessor • Day Release Tutor • Functional Skills Tutor • Additional Support Staff

We will assign a dedicated assessor to you and your apprentice who will offer guidance and support throughout the Apprenticeship Programme.

The assessor will visit your apprentice at your workplace regularly for review meetings and assessment visits (every 4-8 weeks). The assessor will observe, collect evidence and assign work to the learner to complete before the next visit.

EMPLOYER • Line Manager • Employer Mentor • Work Colleagues

apprentice to ensure you are involved and aware of the apprentice’s progress. This is an opportunity for you to provide feedback, discuss any queries and set targets for your apprentice.

These visits and reviews are a mandatory part of the apprenticeship; both you and your apprentice must comply with this in order to stay on track with the programme. Please see page 23 for more information on Workplace Visits and Reviews.

As the employer you are required to be actively involved in review meetings with the

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 11 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 11

19/07/2019 11:29

Eligibility for an Apprenticeship Reaseheath Training hold fortnightly Assessment Centres which potential apprentices and employers are invited to in order to ensure eligibility for an apprenticeship.

Following this, applicants are interviewed by a specialist assessor in their chosen Apprenticeship area who can discuss the programme in more detail.

Eligibility checks include: · the applicant being employed for a minimum of 30 hours and that they are not in full-time education · that they have a contract of employment · they spend at least 50% of their working hours in England · they have the right to work in England · they are a citizen of a country within the European Economic Area, or have the right of abode in the UK and have been ordinarily resident in the EEA for at least the previous 3 years on the first day of the apprenticeship.

During this Assessment Centre our Business Development Team will give a presentation on Apprenticeships to allow the applicant to ensure this is the right programme of learning for them. They then complete BKSB initial assessment in maths and English,and a free

12

writing assessment to ensure they are at the correct level of learning/capability for the Apprenticeship in question.

Employer Data Record Service (EDRS) - Gaining an ERN (Employer Reference Number) If you are a new employer you will be contacted by Bluesheep (EDRS), a data management company on behalf of the Education Skills and Funding Agency.

EDRS will ask you a number of questions in respect of your business to verify your company details. A unique ERN will then be created and this number will be used as your identification with the Education Skills and Funding Agency to draw down funding for your apprentice.

If you fail to respond to their enquiry, your apprentice cannot be funded and the apprenticeship will not be processed.

Progression routes: Reaseheath Training support and offer progression routes for your apprentices as suited to your organisation. Please discuss this with the assessor.

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 12

19/07/2019 11:29

APPRENTICESHIP STANDARDS

FAST FORWARD TO A GREAT CAREER What is the apprenticeship levy and who pays for it

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 13 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 13

19/07/2019 11:29

What are Apprenticeship Standards?

Under the Apprenticeship Reforms Apprenticeship Standards are replacing the Specifications for Apprenticeship Standards in England (SASE) Frameworks. All Standards have been created by groups of employers known as ‘Trailblazers’.

The Standards will: •• Define an Apprenticeship that lasts a minimum of 12 months.

•• Be linked to a specific occupational level.

•• Respond to employers’ needs ensuring that Apprenticeships are high quality, rigorous and develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for a specific job role.

•• Be designed to prepare the apprentice for the End-Point Assessment (EPA) which replaces mandatory qualifications.

English skills to the level identified by the Standard. If they have already achieved this prior to starting on the programme, they will be supported to work towards the next level, if appropriate.

Ofsted will be responsible for quality assuring on-programme delivery.

Gateway to the End-Point Assessment Towards the end of the Apprenticeship, you and Reaseheath Training will sign the apprentice off as ready for the End-Point Assessment – this is known as the ‘Gateway’.

This indicates that both you and Reaseheath Training believe their knowledge, skills and behaviours are at the level required to achieve their Apprenticeship.

As part of the Apprenticeship your apprentice will be required to develop their maths and

14

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 14

19/07/2019 11:29

End-point assessment End-Point Assessment replaces the previous model of continuous assessment resulting in qualifications. The assessment organisation and the assessor must be independent of you and Reaseheath Training.

Following their End-Point Assessment the apprentice will be graded – grading methodology varies per Standard.

On successful achievement of their End-Point Assessment the apprentice will be awarded certification by the Federation for Industry Sector Skills and Standards (FISSS). The End-Point Assessment Organisation will be responsible for making the application to the FISSS for the Apprenticeship certification.

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 15 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 15

19/07/2019 11:29

APPRENTICESHIP STANDARDS (INDIVIDUAL STANDARDS PER OCCUPATION)

Initial assessment

On-the-job off-the-job training On-the-joband and20% off-the-job training • Qualifications are not mandatory Trailblazer groups can choose to build qualifications into Standards, either mandatory (in the Standard) or recommended (in the Assessment Plan). If qualifications are not written into a Standard, providers can still build them into their apprenticeship programme.

• Maths and English

“!+?=”

• Formative assessment of behaviours

Gateway Employer and provider sign off learner

End assessment End point assessment

Completion and certification Completion and certification Completion and certification

Occupational competence

16

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 16

19/07/2019 11:29

BE READY LIFE MATTERS

FAST FORWARD TO A GREAT CAREER

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 17 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 17

19/07/2019 11:29

£ Money Your Place in Society

Staying Safe

What is Be Ready - Life Matters?

At Reaseheath College, we are passionate about our learners, staff and customers and we place them at the heart of all we do by supporting, developing, empowering, encouraging, respecting and valuing their contributions.

The Apprenticeship Be Ready – Life Matters Programme is intended to further develop life skills, behaviours and knowledge, to aid learners with life and work in a modern society.

Your Health Gaining Respect

Living in Modern Britain

Topics covered in Be Ready – Life Matters include: 1. Behaviour in the Workplace 2. Money Matters 3. Employability 4. Career Choices 5. Work Life Balance 6. Prevent- Extremism and Radicalisation 7. Safeguarding 8. Staying safe online- Social Media 9. Your Digital Footprint 10. Road Safety 11. Alcohol and Drug Awareness 12. Health and Safety and Risk Assessments

Your apprentice’s assessor will set Be Ready activities for the apprentice to complete and during visits to the workplace they will discuss this with them.

18

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 18

19/07/2019 11:29

COLLEGE, POLICIES, AGREEMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

FAST FORWARD TO A GREAT CAREER

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 19 19 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 19

19/07/2019 11:29

Apprenticeship Agreement

You must sign an Apprenticeship Agreement with your apprentice. This gives details of what you agree to do for the apprentice, including: •• How long the apprenticeship is for •• The training you will give them •• Their working conditions •• The qualifications they are working towards, if appropriate

What is an Apprenticeship Agreement?

An Apprenticeship Agreement is an agreement between an employer and an apprentice under which the apprentice undertakes to work for the employer and is in the form prescribed by s32 of the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 (ASCLA).

What is the status of the Apprenticeship Agreement?

The ASCLA makes it clear that the Apprenticeship Agreement is a contract of service and not a contract of Apprenticeship. This reflects the fact that an Apprenticeship is primarily a job rather than training. It also means the apprentice does not have any additional rights over those of other employees.

The Apprenticeship Agreement does not replace a Contract of Employment between the Employer and the Learner.

Apprenticeship Commitment Statement (also known as the training plan) All 3 parties involved in the Apprenticeship must sign a Commitment Statement, which is a commitment made between the individual apprentice, the provider and the employer. This document sets out the commitments of all involved.

Employer Responsibilities As the employer you must give your apprentice an induction into their role and provide 20% off-the-job training in the workplace. This equates to 1 day per week.

Employers need to take advantage of the help and resources that are on offer to them and make sure the apprentice has the opportunity to practically apply what they are learning at college. You are responsible for paying your apprentice’s wages and issuing their contract of employment. As an employee, the apprentice receives the same benefits as other employees.

By employing an apprentice, you have certain requirements to meet: •• Issuing a contract of employment and paying at least the Apprenticeship National Minimum Wage •• The apprentice must be paid for their college day(s) •• Provide apprentices with the same benefits as other

20

employees •• The minimum hours of employment for an apprentice should be at least 30 hours per week.

By exception, where the individual’s circumstances or the particular nature of employment in a given sector makes this impossible, then an absolute minimum of 16 hours must be met. In such cases the duration of the apprenticeship should be extended •• Ensuring your Employer Liability Insurance is up to date (Reaseheath Training will need a copy of this for their records) •• Discussing a work schedule with your apprentice, eg start/finish times, rest periods, refreshments and PPE. •• Conducting a formal workplace induction which must include a tour of the premises, health and safety responsibilities, fire procedures, accident procedures, and specific high risk areas/activities at your premises.

•• Employers have an obligation to ensure that apprentices work under the supervision of qualified and experienced workers with relevant skills who are committed to training and mentoring them. Time given to support apprentices in the initial stages will reap rewards later on and help apprentices get up to speed more quickly.

You should also; •• Take part in agreeing and reviewing the training plan throughout the programme •• Be committed to supporting your apprentice to complete and achieve their apprenticeship •• Participate in discussions with your apprentice and their assessor to agree their programme and take an active part in reviews •• Provide your apprentice with a range of tasks that include Maths and English and are relevant to their job role •• Check your apprentice is completing set work and utilising their E Portfolio •• Do visual risk assessments at all new sites and convey any potential risks to your apprentice •• Provide equality of opportunity and protect your apprentice from discrimination, harassment and bullying •• Be aware of any behavioural change in connection with the PREVENT Duty (Counter Terrorism Act 2015) and report to Reaseheath college’s PREVENT officer.

•• Support your apprentice with internet access so that they can complete their qualification on E Portfolio •• Meet quality and compliance requirements •• Notify the college of any accidents, injuries, illnesses etc relating to the learner

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 20

19/07/2019 11:29

•• Alert Reaseheath Training to any change in your business or your apprentice’s situation that may affect progress and achievement We understand that employers are busy people and we will work with you to enhance your business and provide a fully trained, competent workforce. We require your support to ensure that your apprentice attends college when required and makes progress towards their qualification whilst working. There should be a workplace mentor assigned to the learner to offer support and guidance in the college’s absence. The mentor can be the learner’s line manager or colleague who is able to answer questions and provide witness testimonies.

Reaseheath Training can offer support to your mentor so they understand the programme.

20% off the job training As part of their programme your apprentice will need to record all the off-the-job training which they take part in. This is training which is done in addition to their routine day-to-day work tasks and as part of their normal working day. It should be relevant to their apprenticeship and they should be paid for it. Off-thejob training can happen at the usual place of work and should be something the apprentice does not already know how to do. Examples include: · Teaching of theory (for example lectures, role-playing, simulation, online learning or manufacturer training) · Practical training (for example shadowing, mentoring, industry visits and attendance at competitions · Learning support and time spent researching and writing assessments/assignments It DOES NOT include: · English and maths up to level 2 · Progress reviews or assessment which is needed for the apprenticeship · Training that takes place outside the apprentice’s paid working hours (although this could be counted if you give back the time in lieu) It is important that your apprentice records this training and all learning that has taken place will be discussed with the assessor at each visit.

Apprentice Responsibilities The apprentice should; •• Accept responsibility for their learning and be committed to completing their programme •• Attend college as required, punctually and appropriately dressed / with the correct equipment •• Be responsible to meet and complete all agreed actions and targets set- on time

•• C omplete Be Ready – Life Matters at agreed deadlines •• Complete work set on their E Portfolio - in a timely manner •• Ask questions and seek advice if they are unsure what is expected of them •• Seek advice if they have any difficulties that interfere with their ability to complete their programme or work •• Behave responsibly with consideration to other people’s health and safety and welfare •• Understand and comply with the college rules and regulations, especially those relating to health and safety, safeguarding and equal opportunities, including the wearing of their ID badge at all times on campus. The college does not tolerate unacceptable behaviour or harassment or bullying of any members of the college community •• Report to the Student Services team any concerns they may have related to bullying, discrimination or extremist behaviour

Independent Learning Reaseheath Training aims to promote independent learning for all of our apprentices. Independent learning is when an individual is able to think, act and pursue their own studies autonomously. Independent learning also develops secondary skills such as planning, dealing with distractions effectively, time management and other life skills. As an apprentice these skills are key for meeting both employment and college responsibilities.

We expect apprentices to be responsible for their Apprenticeship and all it entails. They should take ownership of their qualification, work ethic and their conduct when in college/ work, ensuring deadlines are met for tasks set- including homework.

As the employer we ask that you support us with this and encourage your apprentice to become an independent learner.

For all our Apprenticeship Courses we ask that you; •• Provide a safe learning/ working environment •• Provide training and skills required •• Be prepared to provide evidence •• Take part in learner progress reviews •• Allow Reaseheath Training regular access to the apprentice •• Support Reaseheath Training and your apprentice with the PREVENT agenda, Maths and English and other topics highlighted in this handbook •• Provide us with your Employer’s Liability Insurance •• Provide correct PPE for your apprentice/ Reaseheath Training Staff when they come to your premises

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 21 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 21

19/07/2019 11:29

22

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 22

19/07/2019 11:29

Reaseheath Responsibilities At Reaseheath Training our dedicated team will work with you to develop a tailored Apprenticeship Programme. Apprenticeships ensure that your workforce has the practical skills and qualifications that your organisation needs, now and in the future.

The mixture of on and off- the-job training ensures that they can learn skills that work best for your business. Reaseheath Training will offer information, advice and guidance throughout the Apprenticeship.

Workplace visits and reviews Visits to the workplace will be arranged by the assessor with you directly. While we endeavour to cause minimum disruption to your normal working day and will book appointments at suitable times, it is important that we see the apprentice carrying out tasks in their normal working environment. Visits typically last 1-2 hours and are a mandatory part of the Apprenticeship. Both you and your apprentice must comply with this in order for the apprentice to stay on track with their programme.

On occasion a third party may need to visit your premises to verify training and assessments. You will be made aware of these visits in advance and asked if you agree to it.

Visits: The assessor may arrange a visit to the workplace where they come and observe your apprentice, carry out a discussion, or even just support them with some written work or a project they are completing.

Reviews: Workplace reviews will be arranged by the assessor, These reviews require you to be present with your apprentice. During the review the assessor will discuss the apprentice’s progress, checking both you and your apprentice are happy. They will set tasks, update the training plan, check if any changes have taken place and discuss whether the apprentice is on target for completion. During the review it is also an opportunity for you to give some feedback and be actively involved.

You can contact the assessor between visits if you have any queries.

Our team of assessors and tutors are fully trained in all aspects of the Apprenticeship Programme components and are industry specialists in their own right. The assessors and tutors will fully support you and your learner with all elements of the Apprenticeship.

E Portfolio E-Portfolios are web-based information management systems used for evidence gathering, and assessment and verification of the evidence. They simplify assessment processes without sacrificing assessment quality. All of our Apprenticeships are delivered using our E-Portfolio system.

Your apprentice will build up a portfolio of work using this system which will be assessed, internally quality assured and finally externally quality assured.

E-Portfolio systems enable easy communication between learners, managers, assessors, quality assurers and employers. They provide a secure, password controlled environment in which apprentices store evidence.

The internal quality assurer, apprentice line manager and the awarding body have 24/7 access to the e-portfolio system ensuring that working practices are open and transparent. These systems also allow increased flexibility on evidence collection methods including digital pictures, sound and video. You will be given access to your apprentice’s portfolio so you can monitor their progress.

Learning Support Centre (LSC) Your apprentice will have access to our Learning Skills Centre services. The LSC provides additional learning support for students with a range of academic support needs. This includes in class support, 1:1 sessions and a drop in service.

Support can be individualised to enable students to achieve their learning goal and work towards independent study and can include: •• Support and guidance across a range of academic learning difficulties and disabilities, including literacy and numeracy difficulties •• Support around visual, hearing or speech impairment •• Assistive Technology through guidance on the use of Text Help and Read Write Gold and with specialist equipment loan •• Exam Arrangements - If your apprentice had these at school they need to be reviewed when they come to college •• Education Health Care Plans - our staff will be involved in working with the apprentice’s local authority and family to help them with the transition into Further Education

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 23 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 23

19/07/2019 11:29

If your apprentice asks for additional support or you feel they would benefit from this service please speak to your allocated Assessor who will contact the LSC and make the necessary arrangements if required.

PREVENT Agenda

religious and misogynistic extremism.

Some of these may be a bigger threat in some communities than others. We must aim to give Reaseheath Training apprentices the skills to protect them from any extremist views they may encounter, now or later in their lives.

Prevent Strategy – Our Duty

What is the Prevent Strategy?

Prevent is a government strategy designed to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorist or extremist causes. The Prevent strategy covers all types of terrorism and extremism, including the extreme right wing and other violent groups.

How does the Prevent strategy apply to me?

From July 2015 all schools and education training providers such as Reaseheath Training have a duty to safeguard apprentices from radicalisation and extremism. This means we have a responsibility to protect our apprentices from extremist and violent views in the same way we try to protect them from bullying, drugs or violence.

Importantly, we can provide a safe place for apprentices to discuss these issues so they better understand how to protect themselves or raise concerns about others.

What does this mean in practice?

Apprentices discuss monthly topics with their assessors at Reaseheath Training. This activity contributes to the Prevent strategy. The topics they cover include: •• Exploring other cultures and religions and promoting diversity •• Challenging prejudices and racist comments •• Developing thinking skills and a strong, positive self-identity •• Promoting the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of learners, as well as British values such as democracy We ask for your support with these topics.

How does Prevent relate to British Values?

We all have a duty to actively promote British Values. British Values are mutually supportive and complementary to Reaseheath Training’s own PRIDE Values.

British Values include: •• The rule of law •• Individual liberty and mutual respect •• Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs

Is extremism really a risk?

Extremism can take many forms, including political,

24

Recognising extremism – signs may include: •• Out of character changes in behaviour and peer relationships •• Secretive behaviour •• Losing interest in friends and activities •• Showing sympathy for extremist causes •• Glorifying violence •• Possessing illegal or extremist literature •• Advocating messages similar to illegal organisations such as “Muslims against Crusades” or non prescribed extremist groups such as the English Defence League, Britain First etc.

What should you do if there are concerns about Extremism?

If you are concerned about your apprentice or another employee you should alert your assessor.

Changes in their behaviour could mean they are vulnerable and may need help and support. By reporting concerns, you may be helping to prevent someone from harming themselves or others.

KEY TERMS: Extremism– vocal or active opposition to British Values such as democracy, the rule of law and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs Ideology – a set of beliefs Terrorism – a violent action against people or property, designed to create fear and advance a political, religious or ideological cause Radicalisation – the process by which a person comes to support extremism Misogyny – the hatred or dislike of women or girls

Safeguarding Reaseheath Training is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all its students, staff and visitors. At our latest Ofsted Care Standards inspection we were given an ‘Outstanding’ grade for the exemplary care we provide our students.

One of the four areas that we were inspected on was safeguarding. Please use the following link to view our Ofsted Report: http://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/about-us/college-facts/ ofsted-care-standards-report/ https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/findinspection-report/provider/ELS/130623

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 24

19/07/2019 11:29

Safeguarding encompasses students’ health and safety, welfare and well-being, and means: •• Ensuring their safety and care •• Prevention of bullying and harassment •• Protection from abuse and neglect •• Promotion of their health and development •• Ensuring they are offered the best life chances Our Safeguarding policy and procedures are applied across the whole organisation. They cover child and vulnerable adult protection and recognise our responsibility under the Government’s PREVENT duty for colleges.

The college ensures that the following roles are in place to maintain a co-ordinated application and approach to safeguarding: Dave Kynaston, Vice Principal – Safeguarding Lead David Pearson, Governor – Safeguarding Mark Birkitt, Head of Student Services – Safeguarding Principal Officer If you, as an employer, have any concern about your apprentice’s wellbeing, safety or rights, you should: •• Talk to their assessor/ tutor •• Talk to Student Services or Reaseheath Training’s Apprentice Welfare Officer •• Contact one of the college safeguarding officers who are available 24/7 on 07889 21678

GUIDELINES FOR SAFEGUARDING YOUNG PEOPLE Reaseheath College seeks to protect young people who are on programmes of study associated with the College. It is the responsibility of all who are working with young people engaged in work experience programmes to prevent the physical, sexual or emotional abuse of young people.

It is the duty of everyone working with young people to report any abuse discovered, suspected or disclosed. Work experience providers are required to co-operate with these arrangements and to adhere to the advice and guidelines on safeguarding young people issued by the College and found below.

Types of abuse.

•• Physical – includes hitting, use of excessive force, shaking, squeezing, burning, biting, administering poisonous substances.

•• Emotional – threats, verbal attacks, shouting, taunting.

•• Sexual – activity which the young person is unable to give informed consent or does not fully comprehend.

••

Neglect - the ongoing failure to meet a child’s basic needs

What to do if abuse is suspected.

•• In all circumstances if you suspect that abuse has occurred, avoid any further discussions with the student and contact the college immediately.

What to do to reduce the opportunity to abuse in the workplace.

•• Where possible, limit the occasions where a young person is alone with a member of staff for any length of time.

•• Be wise with relationships with young people – don’t be over friendly with some at the expense of others.

•• Never hit or physically restrain a young person.

•• Be wise in physical contact with young people.

•• Where possible have more than one adult with a student when working in remote locations or going on visits or trips.

•• Where confidentiality is important (e.g. personal interviews/tutorials), let others know of the arrangements and try to have someone else around.

•• Treat young people with dignity and respect in your attitude, the language you use and the actions you take.

Reaseheath seeks to eliminate unfair discrimination towards individuals and to create an environment which encourages high performance, trust and cooperation. All work experience providers are asked to adopt this approach with students to promote security and equal opportunities.

Health and Safety The college is committed to continually improving standards in all aspects of it’s work including health, safety and wellbeing. It is the policy to safeguard learners, employees and others working or visiting college premises. The college Health and Safety Policy sets out the organisational arrangements to fulfil this commitment and along with other specific policies is reviewed periodically to ensure that it is up to date and relevant.

To view Reaseheath college’s full Health and Safety Policy please use the following link: http://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2016/10/FR-4-Health-and-Safety-Policy-201617-website.pdf Health and safety checks are carried out before learners begin their apprenticeship, as new apprentices are at greater risk of injury than experienced workers.

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 25 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 25

19/07/2019 11:29

Once at work, apprentices must: •• Be supervised •• Have clear instructions on the equipment they can and cannot use •• Be told about their personal responsibilities for health and safety •• Wear PPE&C provided by the employer •• Restrain loose clothing or long hair, remove jewellery or body ornaments to avoid being trapped in equipment •• Ensure illness and disability do not affect ability to work safely

Employer Health and Safety Responsibilities By law, employers need to display: •• A Health and Safety Law Poster or give workers a Health & Safety Law leaflet – What you should know (refer to www.hse.gov.uk) •• A copy of the current Employer’s Liability Insurance certificate

To comply with current health and safety legislation, employers must have: •• A nominated Health and Safety person •• An accident sheet

•• A suitable first aid box •• A written Health and Safety policy (if you have 5 or more employees including apprentices) •• A written risk assessment of the hazards in the work place

Lone Working: Working alone is not in itself against the law and it will often be safe to do so. However, the law requires employers to consider carefully, and then deal with, any health and safety risks for people working alone.

Employers should complete a risk assessment to help you decide on the right level of supervision needed in the circumstance.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (also referred to as HASAWA) is the primary piece of legislation covering occupational Health and Safety in Great Britain. The Health and Safety Executive, with local authorities (and other enforcing authorities) is responsible for enforcing the Act and a number of other Acts and Statutory Instruments relevant to the working environment.

All employers must conduct a risk assessment. If you have fewer than five employees you don’t have to

College Strategy, - Single Equality Scheme & Plan - Policies and Procedures Monitoring - Compliance - Best practice - Apprentices

Celebration Days - Diversity Seek - Apprenticeship Awards Evening

Promotional & Awareness Programme

Reasheath College Learner Equality and Diversity Wheel

Learner Engagement - Embedding equality - the workplace and college lesson tutorials

26

Data analysis - Surveys - Success data - E & D incidences

Apprentice Voice Mid Point Survey FE Choices Survey

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 26

19/07/2019 11:29

You should review your risk assessment if you think it might no longer be valid (e.g. following an accident in the workplace or if there are any significant changes to hazards, such as new work equipment or work activities).

It does not mean that we treat everyone equally.

Any discrimination, direct or indirect, applied to any existing or potential future individual member of the college community on the grounds of race, gender, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment and pregnancy and maternity is not acceptable.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Sustainability

write anything down.

Reaseheath Training is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the provision of its training and assessment services. The aim of Reaseheath Training’s policy is to ensure that: •• No apprentice or applicant is treated less favourably on the grounds of disability, race, colour, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation (including transgender status), gender, marital status, pregnancy and maternity status or age (except where age restrictions exist for certain programmes).

•• No person is disadvantaged by any conditions or requirements, which cannot be shown to be justified.

•• Reaseheath Training will make reasonable adjustments which help to make assessments fair for all.

Reaseheath Training will pursue the five aims below to ensure: 1. Equality of opportunity and prevent any discrimination, either direct or indirect, in all aspects of the organisation’s activity.

2. Equality in all aspects of service delivery and to ensure the organisation’s services are accessible to all who require them and are entitled to receive them.

3. Compliance with existing and any future equality and diversity legislation, and to actively promote training and assessment services to underrepresented groups or disaffected individuals.

4. The organisation acts as a model for effective Equality, Diversity and Inclusion practices for clients, customers and sub-contractors, including employers and work placement providers.

5. Reaseheath Training is responsive to the needs of all members of our client groups At Reaseheath Training, we recognise, respect, promote and celebrate diversity.

We all need to embrace differences in people irrespective of their race, gender, sexuality, religion, age, political views, ethnic origin or special needs or requirements. This also means that we must consider their own personal ideas, opinions, views, thoughts and beliefs.

Equality means that we must give each other an equal opportunity for involvement or participation.

Reaseheath College is one of the leading specialist land based colleges in the UK. Based in Cheshire the college has an enviable setting amongst 330 hectares of farms, parklands, lake, woodland and sports facilities. You can’t help feeling at home at Reaseheath.

Reaseheath Training is committed to promoting sustainability. Concern for the environment and promoting a broader sustainability agenda are integral to Reaseheath Training’s activities and the management of the organisation. We aim to follow and promote good sustainability practice, to reduce the environmental impacts of all our activities and to help our clients and partners to do the same.

Our Sustainability Policy is based upon the following principles: •• To comply with, and exceed where practicable, all applicable legislation, regulations and codes of practice.

•• To integrate sustainability considerations into all our business decisions.

•• To ensure that all staff are fully aware of our Sustainability Policy and are committed to implementing and improving it.

•• To minimise the impact on sustainability of all office and transportation activities.

•• To make clients and suppliers aware of our Sustainability Policy, and encourage them to adopt sound sustainable management practices.

•• To review and continually strive to improve our sustainability performance.

Compliments, Complaints & Disciplinary Procedure Reaseheath Training is pleased to receive comments on its services and feedback is obtained through student questionnaires and meetings between students and staff.

Reaseheath Training provides a quality service but there will be some occasions where things don’t go to plan. It is important that you distinguish between a minor problem which can be dealt with quickly and a more serious complaint or grievance which needs to be addressed by formal college procedures. For minor problems please discuss these with your Assessor

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 27 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 27

19/07/2019 11:29

Coordinator.

We strive not to give cause for complaint, but every one received is recorded and acted upon. Quite often we can resolve a complaint immediately. If not, we will investigate your complaint fairly and deal with it quickly and confidentially.

We are also pleased to receive letters of praise for our staff, and for the service that we provide.

You can make a complaint or compliment by talking to any member of staff or alternatively, you can contact us as follows:

Reaseheath Training Manager Telephone: 01270 613221 (Option 2) Email: rtadmin@reaseheath.ac.uk Write to us: Reaseheath Training Department, Reaseheath College, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6DF Unsatisfactory Behaviour The college expects and encourages good behaviour of students on campus and within the local community. Unsatisfactory behaviour will be addressed and there are formal procedures for dealing with incidents. Details of the full ‘Student Disciplinary Code’ are on the student intranet.

Unsatisfactory Academic Work The college expects all students to work to their maximum potential and to aim to obtain the best outcome possible for their apprenticeship. If an apprentice has problems then assistance will be offered to help improve standards.

If an apprentice fails to hand in work, or work is of a poor standard despite assistance being provided, then procedures are followed to address issues.

A copy of the procedures can be obtained from the assessor coordinator At the end of each term students who fail to meet the minimum attendance requirements or fail to reach the required standard of work may be asked to attend an interview with the Principal or Vice Principal. The outcome of this interview will determine if the individual is allowed to return to college the following term.

What happens if I have concerns but do not want to make a formal complaint?

stage) want to make a formal complaint, talk to any member of staff who you think may be able to help.

We take all concerns seriously and many can be sorted out very quickly and with little fuss. This will not be recorded as a complaint; however, notes of your query and any action taken will be made.

What happens when I make a formal complaint?

Upon receipt of your complaint we will send you a letter confirming that we have received and recorded your communication. If you have reported the complaint verbally, please make it clear that this is a formal complaint and you will be sent an outline of your concerns within a letter.

A senior manager will investigate your complaint and will aim to send a full response to you within 10 working days of receipt of your communication.

Sometimes more complex complaints take longer than 10 working days to investigate. If so, we will write to let you know of the delay and when we expect to complete the investigation. If your complaint is upheld, we will apologise and let you know what we are doing to put it right. If we feel that your complaint is not justified, we will explain why.

On the spot risk assessment.

A simple way to ensuring the safety of the student on your placement and other employees is the use of these guidelines: Risk control Eliminate the hazard - This is the most effective way of controlling risk - finding a way to do the job that removes the risk completely.

Reduce the risk - If you can’t remove the risk then try to reduce it. Alter the way a job is done to reduce the risk.

Isolate people from the hazard - The fewer people near a hazard the less likely it is someone will be harmed.

Control the hazard - Doing the job a certain way via safe systems of work, ensuring guards are in place and shutting doors/gates are all examples of controlling a hazard.

PPE use – PPE should be provided to your Apprentice free of charge and repaired or replace when necessary.

If you have a concern or query about any aspect of the apprenticeship programme, but do not (at this

28

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 28

19/07/2019 11:29

INDUCTION CHECKLIST GENERAL •• Apprentice has been introduced to line manager and colleagues •• Apprentice has been shown their work area •• Apprentice has been given a tour of the premises •• Conditions of employment have been explained: •• Working days and hours •• Lunch breaks •• Holiday entitlement •• Pay arrangements •• Policies (sickness, smoking, use of personal email, personal use of telephone etc) •• Job requirements have been explained

HEALTH AND SAFETY •• Name and location of person responsible for health and safety •• Name and location of person responsible for first aid •• Location of first aid box and accident book •• Procedure for reporting accidents •• Explanation of apprentice’s responsibilities in case of emergency •• Location of fire exits and fire procedures •• Explanation of particular work based hazards •• Consequences of breach of health and safety regulations •• Procedure for reporting hazards

apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 29 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 29

19/07/2019 11:29

USEFUL INFORMATION/ LINKS Employer guide to Apprenticeships Funding/ Apprenticeship Levy

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apprenticeship-levyhow-it-will-work/apprenticeship-levy-how-it-will-work

Employing an apprentice

https://www.gov.uk/take-on-an-apprentice/

Employer guide to Apprenticeships

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apprenticeshipsguide-for-employers

Apprenticeship Pay & Conditions

Apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage. The current rate can be found using the following web link: https:// www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates This rate applies to apprentices aged 16 to 18 and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year. Apprentices must be paid at least the minimum wage rate for their age, if the apprentice is aged 19 or over and have completed the first year, they must be paid for their normal working hours (minimum 30 hours per week) including training/ college days that are part of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices are entitled to at least 20 days paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays. Please use the holiday calculator to check holiday entitlement for apprentices which can be found on the following web link: https://www.gov.uk/calculate-yourholidayentitlement https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide/pay-and-conditions https://www.gov.uk/calculate-statutory-sick-pay

30

Employment Contracts:

https://www.gov.uk/employment-contracts-and-conditions

Lone working:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/workers/lone.htm

Health and Safety

http://www.hse.gov.uk/index.htm http://www.hse.gov.uk/youngpeople/apprentices.htm

20% Off-th -job training

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apprenticeships-offthe-job-training

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 30

19/07/2019 11:29

COLLEGE LINKS Safeguarding Ofsted report: https://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/about-us/ofsted-care-standards-report https://files.api.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/2731961

Safeguarding policies: https://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/safeguarding

Health and safety https://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/FR4-Health-Safety-andEnvironmental-Policy-Statement.pdf

Whistleblowing Policy: http://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/about-us/about-the-college/college-policies

BE A PART OF IT apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk 31 RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 31

19/07/2019 11:29

01270 613 221

facebook.com/reaseheathcollege twitter.com/RHC_Apprentice reaseheath.ac.uk apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk

Where to find us: Reaseheath Training Department Grebe House Reaseheath College, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6DF

32

reaseheath.ac.uk

RH Apprenticeships Employers May 2019.indd 32

19/07/2019 11:29