Why is the Ceramic Apprenticeship Framework being changed?
All Apprenticeship Frameworks need updating from time to time. The ceramic framework is being revised because (a) the NVQs contained within the old scheme have now expired; (b) there is no longer a Level 3 NVQ in ceramics and (c) our industry’s training and learning requirements have changed.
Industry employers also have an ageing workforce: many experienced people will be retiring soon and there is a real need to recruit young people so that these precious skills and knowledge will not be lost.
Why is the Technical Certificate (knowledge element) compulsory? It wasn’t under the previous scheme…
All Apprentices (in all sectors – not just ceramics) must now complete a Technical Certificate as part of their Apprenticeship. Industry employers support this. ‘The Knowledge’ will also help to ensure that Apprentices are aware of the whole manufacturing process (not just their job / department); and the need to maintain quality standards. In addition, it will help Apprentices to understand that their colleagues are customers too! For example, if poor quality work is passed on to another department, the ‘customers’ in that department will be unhappy. Customers are not just people who buy the company’s products.
Why has the IT (Information Technology) Key Skill been taken out of the ceramic Apprenticeship scheme?
Employers tell us that the majority of ceramic Apprentices do not use computers as part of their work.
How soon will the new ceramic Apprenticeship scheme be available?
The new scheme was approved in July 2008 and should be in use by October 2008.
We multi-skill our employees: how will the ceramic Apprenticeship scheme accommodate multi-skilling for young people?
The new scheme states the minimum requirements for a young person to complete their Apprenticeship. Employers are free to encourage their Apprentices to complete further units from the ceramic Level 2 NVQ to reflect multiple skills. They can also gain units from other NVQs (e.g. warehousing, retail, administration) if they wish: however, these additional units are unlikely to attract funding.
Why doesn’t the ceramic Apprenticeship scheme include craft pottery?
The Creative & Cultural Skills SSC is developing a Creative Apprenticeship that will accommodate Craft Potters. This is expected to be available in late 2008.
Please note that the ceramic Apprenticeship will be offered in England and Wales only.
How can I get further information?
Contact details:-
Association for Ceramic Training & Development
Unit 1, Riverside 2, Campbell Road, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 3RJ
Phone: 01782 747828
Email keith@actd.co.uk