Learner Engagement through Work Based Learning Rachel Searle WBL network officer South Wales

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org What is NTfW?  Over 90 members and growing  Transformation Project funded by DCELLS – “Maximising the effectiveness of the work based learning network”  Developing the network to develop excellence in vocational skills  Recently secured pan Wales basic skills contract

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org What is WBL?  Learning in the workplace and for the workplace  Differences between WBL, vocational learning and work related learning  Differences in focus and levels  Productive working relationships with employers. Members work with 35,000 employers in Wales  Hidden sector?

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org Quality & Standards of Work Based Learning  Wales 75% national framework completion rate – from start on programme, not just those entered for test  WBL contract holders subject to rigorous annual DCELLS quality requirements, embedded self assessment processes & ESTYN inspection

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org Apprenticeship Framework success measures May 2010 (2008/09 data) May 2011 (2009/10 data) May 2012 (2010/11 data) May 2013 (2011/12 data) Excellent75% or above80% or above85% or above90% or above Good65 – 74%70 – 79%75 – 84%80 – 89% Adequate55 – 64%60 – 69%65 – 74%70 – 79% UnsatisfactoryBelow 55%Below 60%Below 65%Below 70%

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org Learner Engagement in Wales  In 2009 approx 14K year olds NEET in Wales - 12%  In 2009 approx 32K NEET in Wales – 22% 4% on 2008  “Educational institutions, schools, colleges and universities, whilst giving some attention to employability, do not give it the level or quality of attention it needs and consequently, many people seek to find work without a sound basis for sustainable employment”*  Actions needed to improve & maintain the socialization, social confidence and social skills of disadvantaged young people who tend to lack the social networks and social skills which are so important in gaining and sustaining employment * *WESB 2010, Moving Forward: Foundations for Growth

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org WBL in 14-19, a loss or a gain? WBL needs to be viewed as an enhancement to curriculum, rather than traditional ‘alternative curriculum’ promotion “Vocational options & experiences must be authentic...have a real potential to lead to rewarding careers” WESB 2010 Schools Further Education Work Based Learning Sector

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org Collaborative Developments so far  PLQ in IT & PLQ Business Administration & Finance  Developing a WBL 1 day option choice pathway across cluster schools  WBL provider enhancing school based BTEC in Care with extended work placements  Pilot project working with school & careers to enhance work experience in year 10 and provide accreditation of this.  Collaborative Leadership & Management twilight pilot of 4 WBL providers, HEI and sector organisation

Learner Engagement through Work Based Learningwww.ntfw.org Issues  Planning is key – planning and developing pathways to meet option menu gaps and labour market needs  Pitching the offer correctly- differentiated levels  Flexible Progression routes  Marketing to the audience – not a loss but a gain!  Neither general or vocational but mix & match  Genuinely collaborative and sustainable