In May 2011 the Government announced a new pathway within the Apprenticeship programme aimed at widening employment access to young people with the potential to benefit from an Apprenticeship, as part of a range of measures to support young unemployed people.

 ‘Access to Apprenticeships’ will provide help and support for young people aged 16-24 who need that little extra boost or helping hand to move into employment, by way of an Apprenticeship. It is recognised that there are young people who have all the ambition and passion demanded by an Apprenticeship but who need an opportunity to demonstrate their work commitment to employers, while studying to the required standards. Access to Apprenticeships will give them this chance.

 Steadfast Training Ltd is offering places on the Access to Apprenticeship programme at the Steadfast Academy where young people will have the opportunity to start their career with local employers while aiming to achieve a full time Apprenticeship placement within 3-6 months.

 To be eligible for the programme learners must be aged 16-24, able to fully participate in an Intermediate Level or Advanced Level Apprenticeship, and be defined as Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), for 13 weeks before they start.

 As an employer this gives you the opportunity to take on an Apprentice for a voluntary work trial; this can be used as part of your recruitment process and the work trial can be part of an extended interview. The advantage of the work trial is that it will give you a chance to see how the individual fits into your organisation before considering an offer of a full time Apprenticeship. The Apprentice would also benefit from the work placement by gaining work based skills.

 If you are interested in trialling an Apprentice or would like more information please contact one of our friendly advisors on 0845 22 32 401.