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Total People is a Centre of Vocational Excellence


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I would recommend work-based training to others as it has helped me to become more confident and to be part of a team and I know at the end I will have a qualification that will help me to get on. |
Gemma left Brine Leas school with 10 GCSEs. She always knew that she would like a career in construction and so with support from the Prospects Centre in Crewe , she applied for several jobs in Painting and Decorating. Gemma was offered a 3-month placement with C. Newton & Son; they were so impressed with her that she was offered a permanent position.
Gemma's job is both varied and interesting. It involves her moving around to different sites and locations such as schools and nursing homes as well as private houses. One of the skills she has to use is her attention to detail; this is vital in preparing surfaces for painting or wallpapering, applying different types of paints and wallcoverings and adding those professional touches that her customers require. Gemma's Total People Training Adviser supported her in identifying her training programme. She now attends college one day per week and also receives training and guidance from her workplace supervisor as well as help with her logbook from her Training Adviser.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a work-based learning programme designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to develop your prospects and career in the industry. By starting an Apprenticeship in Painting & Decorating you begin the first step to a challenging and rewarding career. You should be enthusiastic, hard working and practically minded. Working as part of a team is essential, as is being committed and dedicated to both work and your Apprenticeship.
The Advanced Apprenticeship is available to you once you have completed your Apprenticeship. These are identical in structure to the Apprenticeship; however learning is at Level 3 which is equivalent to ‘A’ Level standard.
How do I find an Apprenticeship?
The first thing you need to do is to find a job. Painting & Decorating Apprenticeships are work-based which means you need to be employed before you can start your training.
There are many places you can go to find a job; Connexions, local papers, internet job sites, and Job Centre Plus. You can even try friends and family to see if they know anybody who may have a vacancy.
Once you have gained employment contact Total People!
What happens then?
Total People will send one of their Training Advisers out to you. They will sit down with both you and your employer to arrange your learning plan.
Your training will require you to attend college for one day a week. Your employer will give you time off to attend your classes and meet with your Training Adviser.
How long will it take?
The time taken to complete your NVQ depends upon you; how quickly you want to do it. However it normally takes around 12 months to complete.
The Technical Certificate is delivered at a college, therefore you will tend to start in September and finish at around May / June time.
The other element of your Apprenticeship, Key Skills, takes around 12 months to complete, but again is dependant upon you!
Completing your Apprenticeship
Your Painting & Decorating Apprenticeship is made up from 3 core elements;
- NVQ
- Technical Certificate
- Key Skills
Your NVQ portfolio is like a work diary, it records your activities and experiences. Your portfolio is assessed to make sure you are competent. Your work will be assessed on site.
The Technical Certificate gives you the underpinning knowledge needed to carry out the tasks of your NVQ.
Key Skills are similar to Maths and English GCSEs; however learning is focussed around Painting & Decorating; for example, you will learn how to calculate the cost of a job for a client and then learn the best way to make your proposal to a prospective client!
Further Progression
Qualifying will open many doors to you. You will be able to show your employer that, along with being qualified, you have also shown commitment, dedication and professionalism. Many apprentices decide to progress their education through professional qualifications like ONCs, HNCs, and even degrees. Alternatively you could decide to set up your own business, or take the step to work abroad.
General Enquiries: 01606 734000
Email:info@totalpeople.co.uk


