Where better to start our mini-series on best practice in digital training than with Arch Apprentices, a UK leader in digital skills apprenticeships?
Who?
Arch Apprentices are the provider of hands-on digitally focussed apprenticeships, in conjunction with market leaders such as Google and Incisive Media. They’re driven by innovation, a passion to engage with and train 16-18 year olds, and an understanding that their apprentices are the future of digital’s potential. Apprenticeships last roughly a year, and apprentices receive a wage, intensive training, ongoing support and real work experience- as well as the chance to progress into a permanent position.
So how do they do?
Pretty well. Their apprentices are happy, and many go on to find employment within the companies they apprenticed for. It seems the integration of training with real work experiences is a real benefit, as it allows the young person to develop and the employers to get to know the person behind the CV.
Interestingly, the employers are very happy too. It’s too often forgotten that a young person’s presence in a work setting is beneficial, not only to the youngster themselves, but also to the employers. The employers involved with Arch are routinely impressed by the hard work the young people put in, and are delighted to be able to help launch the young people’s careers. Wonderful stuff!
What makes it work?
The interaction between real work based skills and on-the-job training is key. It’s clear that simply handing over an instruction manual isn’t enough to instil confidence in young people, you have to help provide experience too. Arch Apprenticeships put a focus on giving the apprentices they work with real work to do, not the tea-ferrying of “work experience”, and gives them an expert’s insight into how to use digital tools most effectively. The nationally recognised qualification doesn’t hurt either.
What have we learnt?
Simply put, that giving training in a vacuum isn’t enough. Learning the basics of a digital skill is useless unless it can be practised, applied and learnt from. Not to mention the immersion in work settings as a basis of work-related skill training.
Key points
- Dual work and training
- Real work experiences
- Accredited award
- Potential for employment
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