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COVID-19 Update Alert – Please click here for more information regarding the COVID-19 Lockdown and our plans for teaching and learning during this unprecedented and worrying times.
A Sector-based work academy programme, or SWAP, is a collaboration between a training provider, local Jobcentres and an employer.
The programme can support employers to create a skilled workforce for their business. It is designed to help prepare those receiving unemployment benefits to apply for jobs in a different area of work. Placements are designed to help meet employers immediate and future recruitment needs, as well as to recruit a workforce with the right skills to sustain and grow their business.
SWAP is administered by Jobcentre Plus and available in England and Scotland.
How it works
Each sector-based work academy Programme offers a flexible approach and can be adapted to meet the needs of business. By liaising with employers, Pathways LDN LTD agrees to deliver specific training programmes which often include employability skills together with more specific opportunities such as customer service for retail or Business Admin training for office roles, CSCS or possibly Health and Safety aimed at a construction environment, plus many other options.
Employers tell us what vacancies they have and how many people they are looking for and will give us a job description which outlines the knowledge and skills they are looking for. They will also agree to offer the opportunity for some unpaid work experience and an interview at the end of the programme.
Suitability
Local Jobcentres refer suitable candidates to us, we screen them to determine their suitability for the job role, and then carry out an initial assessment of their skills, covering English, maths and ICT. SWAPs can last up to six weeks but typically range in duration from 1 week to 4 weeks.
Keeping it local
We also promote our SWAPs to other community organisations local to pathways to ensure the greatest number of people find out about opportunities and can take advantage of them – the more suitable candidates we can put forward to employers, the better the chances of successfully helping employers fill their job vacancies with local people.
Who is it for?
SWAPs are particularly useful for young people but are open to all jobseekers aged 18 and above, to improve skills and enhance confidence and experience. Candidates remain on benefits whilst on a SWAP.
The government will pay any travel and childcare costs whilst benefit claimants are on the programme and there is no direct cost to an employer for running a sector-based work academy as training and administration costs are covered by government funding.
What will the candidate do?
Benefits for employers
Benefits for trainees/candidates
How do you get involved as an employer?
For further Enquiries:
Email: info@pathwaysldnltd.com or Call 07454 044 290
The purpose of ASF is to support adult learners in non-devolved areas to gain skills which will lead them to meaningful, sustained, and relevant employment, or enable them to progress to further learning which will deliver that outcome.
Within ASF, further provision for tailored learning is available that supports wider outcomes such as to improve health and wellbeing, equip parents/carers to support their child’s learning, and develop stronger communities.
What is the Adult Skills Fund (ASF)?
The ASF is a government-funded programme that provides financial support for adults aged 19 and over to gain new skills and qualifications. It is designed to help individuals improve their employability and career prospects, as well as support businesses in developing a skilled workforce.
The fund is managed by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and is available to eligible individuals through approved training providers. It covers a wide range of courses and qualifications, from basic skills and English language courses to higher-level technical and professional training.
Who is eligible for the Adult Skills Fund?
The UKASF is available to adults aged 19 and over who are living in England and who live in a non-devolved areas.
The fund will fully fund learners who meet the residency eligibility, are aged 19 and over, and who meet the definition of being below the earnings threshold, to undertake learning:
Learners aged 19 to 23 who have not previously achieved a full level 2 qualification must be fully funded, regardless of the earnings threshold, if they choose a qualification from the level 2 legal entitlement list.
Learners who have exhausted their first full level 2 entitlement and do not meet the definition of being below the earnings threshold will be co-funded.
In addition to this, the fund will also include Free courses for jobs (FCFJ) which is a targeted level 3 offer to support adults who meet the definition of being below the earnings threshold.
The offer includes:
There are also specific eligibility criteria for certain courses and qualifications, such as English language courses and higher-level technical training. These criteria may include prior qualifications, residency status, and employment status.
How can businesses benefit from the Adult Skills Fund?
The UKASF not only benefits individuals looking to improve their skills and qualifications, but it also provides significant benefits for businesses in the UK.
Addressing Skills Gaps
One of the main benefits for businesses is the opportunity to address skills gaps within their workforce. With the Adult Skills Fund, businesses can access funding to upskill their employees and fill any knowledge or skill gaps that may be hindering their productivity and growth.
This is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have the resources to invest in training and development for their employees.
Developing a Skilled Workforce
The Adult Skills Fund also allows businesses to develop a skilled and qualified workforce, which can lead to increased productivity and competitiveness. By investing in their employees’ skills and qualifications, businesses can ensure they have the right talent to meet their current and future needs.
Cost Savings
By accessing the Adult Skills Fund, businesses can save on the costs of training and development for their employees. The fund covers a significant portion of the training costs, reducing the financial burden on businesses.
Increased Employee Retention
Investing in employee training and development can also lead to increased employee retention. When employees feel valued and have opportunities for growth and development, they are more likely to stay with the company and contribute to its success.
Conclusion
The UK Adult Skills Fund, formerly the Adult Education Budget, will continue to be a valuable resource for individuals and businesses in the UK. It provides funding for workforce training and development, helps to address skills gaps and develop a skilled and competitive workforce.
By replacing AEB, the Adult Skills Fund has simplified the funding process and made it more efficient, making it easier for individuals and businesses to access the support they need.
If you’re an individual looking to improve your skills and qualifications, or a business looking to develop your workforce, the Adult Skills Fund is a valuable resource that can help you achieve your goals.
Pathways LDN is a vry well established training provider delivering a range of short courses for adults. All Pathways short courses are free (fully-funded by the UK government) to people age 19+ who live within the Greater London Area.
At our centres you will have access to an information advice and guidance team, computers and the internet, college literature, jobs boards and a warm cup of tea or coffee. Please contact us to find out more information or refer yourself on to the programme, you will find our centre contact details below info@pathwaysldnltd.com or 07454 044 290
Targeting specific groups
Unlike universal programmes, these interventions focus on young people between the ages of 16-24 years who are most at risk of long-term unemployment and face significant barriers, such as those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Holistic and individualised support
Our Programmes provide tailored, holistic support beyond basic employability skills, including personal development, confidence building, and 1:1 mentoring.
Focus on multiple disadvantage
Our programmes address complex needs and barriers that prevent these young people from entering employment, education, or training.
Sector-specific pathways
Our programmes are designed to prepare individuals for specific employment sectors, such as the Retail, IT, Creative, security and hospitality industries.
Mentoring and in-work support
Our mentors are involved in guiding YP through the programme and providing crucial support once they enter the workforce.
Inclusivity
Our programmes actively work to include and reach specific demographics, with targeted efforts to engage individuals from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, females, and disabled individuals
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A PLACE ON THIS PROGRAMME?
You can apply for a place directly below… alternatively you can be referred via government-funded employment agencies like Job Centre Plus. Our contact details below info@pathwaysldnltd.com or call 07454 044 290
Get in touch today if you're looking for support back into work
