Pathways to Apprenticeships

9/26/2011 5:15 AM EST

For immediate release:

Undecided what to do after your GCSEs? Have you considered participating in the new Pathways to Apprenticeship programme, a one year programme combining college study with valuable work experience in agriculture, horticulture or floristry?

Built to prepare young people for an Advanced Apprenticeship, the Pathways to Apprenticeship Programme (PTA) is unique because it requires strong links with industry and commitment from employers to take on work placements and, upon completion of the course, Apprentices. The course is designed and supported by employers to ensure learners are successfully prepared for employment. There are four colleges in Wales offering the PTA in the land-based and environmental sector including Coleg Powys, Coleg Llandrillo, Deeside College, and Coleg Sir Gar.

The course is based around a core level two qualification and is supported by a strong emphasis on work placement and employer links. This is an intensive programme of study so in addition to the level two core, learners will complete a number of other qualifications specific to their industry, which will enhance their employability. Examples include:

• Safe use of veterinary medicine
• Chainsaw
• Tractor driving
• Enterprise units for horticulture
• Create a vision for your business in floristry

The intention is that at the end of the one year programme the learners will be capable of going on to a level 3 Apprenticeship. This programme could be seen as a worthy vocational alternative to completing an A-Level course of study. Those who successfully complete the course will be pre-trained and have a proven track record with an employer, putting them in a strong position with employers looking to recruit an apprentice.

Many learners on the PTA scheme are eligible for EMA (Education Maintenance Allowance) and will receive £30 per week, paid fortnightly.

Apply direct to your nearest college or email   or call 01982 552646.

ENDS

ISSUED BY
Lantra Press Office
Samuel Zelmer-Jackson, PR Co-ordinator
Tel: 02476 858 418 or email  

Follow Lantra on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LantraSSC


NOTES TO EDITOR

About Lantra

• Lantra is the Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industries, working to ensure these businesses access the training, qualifications, skills and knowledge they need.
• Lantra represents 17 industries: agricultural livestock and crops; animal care; animal technology; aquaculture; environmental conservation; equine; farriery; fencing; fisheries management; floristry; game and wildlife management; land-based engineering; horticulture, landscaping and sports turf; production horticulture; trees and timber and veterinary activities.
• By working together with the sector, Lantra leads research on skills issues and business needs, sets national standards and develops qualifications to meet modern business needs and help businesses grow through skills.
• For more information see www.lantra.co.uk.