FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME. Learner's Guide

Transcription

1 FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME Learner's Guide August 2017

2 FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME INTRODUCTION Ford Apprenticeships and you This guide provides you as an Apprentice with an overview of what can be expected throughout this exciting stage in your training. Courses available on the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme The Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme has an unbeatable track record in developing technicians and other staff for careers in the Ford dealer network. You will be employed by one of the dealers in our network with the opportunity to experience a range of disciplines, including: The Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme has been developed across 13 different disciplines:* Car Technician Van Technician Fast Fit Technician Service Advisor Accident Repair Centre Advisor Parts Advisor Vehicle Body Mechanical Technician Vehicle Body Panel Technician Vehicle Body Paint Technician Vehicle Sales Executive Commercial Vehicle Sales Executive Management Team Leading Business Administration Your chance to join a winning team The FMAP recruits approximately 500 new Apprentices every year to meet the growing needs of our dealer network. The Programme is prize-winning, awarded the Macro Employer of the Year Award by the National Apprenticeship Service in Skillnet and Ford Skillnet is the UK s largest provider of automotive Apprenticeship training in the UK and has managed the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme since Skillnet works with Ford and its dealer network to attract the highest quality people to the brand. Skillnet will make a carefully assessment of your strengths and capabilities before arranging an interview with a dealer in order to make sure we find the right employer for you. Skillnet and Ford then work closely together to ensure you get the best out of your learning experience and gain the necessary skills to develop a long-term career in this exciting industry with a world-leading brand. *Available according to the location 2

3 LEARNER'S GUIDE INVESTING IN YOU You will be fully employed by a Ford dealership from day one and you ll receive on -the-job training. A big part of your training will also come from what we call off-thejob training, which takes place at one of the Ford Centres of Learning (see 'Where does the training take place?' on page 4 for more information). The Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme involves: 1. Employment at a Ford dealership. 2. Supervised on-the-job training at the dealership. 3. Off-the-job or block-release training at a Ford Centre of Learning. 4. VCQs or SVQs, which are nationally recognised competence qualifications 5. Technical Certificate - a theory based qualification. 6. Functional skills - improving specific levels of literacy, numeracy and use of information technology. Length of programme A typical Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme lasts three to four years, but you may progress through the course faster dependent on your chosen discipline. Throughout your Apprenticeship you may spend between eight and ten weeks per year receiving off-the-job training at a Ford Centre of Learning. 3

4 FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME WHERE DOES THE TRAINING TAKE PLACE? As a 'Technical' Apprentice (light vehicle and van technicians and vehicle body Apprentices) you will most likely attend one of the Ford Centres of Learning. Your Ford dealership employer will pay for all your travel expenses to and from the centres, together with the costs of accommodation. For other disciplines you ll receive your training 'in-house' under the guidance of a Ford Masters Skills Coach. The Ford Centres of Learning are all closely monitored by Ford and Skillnet to ensure that they meet the highest standards of training. Henry Ford Academy - Daventry The Henry Ford Academy at Daventry specialises in qualified adult and Apprentice learning for Ford. Spacious classrooms and wellequipped workshops create an ideal learning environment. The Henry Ford Academy at Daventry delivers bespoke car and van education and technical training to the highest standards in the industry. Lagta Centre of Excellence - Scotland Transport Training Services - Northern Ireland As an automotive sector-dedicated training centre, rated outstanding in 2015 by the Education & Training Inspectorate, the TTS team is committed to delivering the skills needed by Ford dealers in NI. The new building and recent investment in workshop modernisation also helps to keep TTS delivery of training up to date. Reading College - Reading The Lagta Centre of Excellence is purpose-built to create an ideal learning environment for Apprentices training on the FMAP in Scotland. Situated on the new Eurocentral Business Park, near Glasgow, it has easy access to the M8. Ideally located to provide a local college service to dealers in the South East and Thames Valley corridor, Reading is the newest addition to the FMAP network of colleges. The college, which is rated Good with Outstanding Areas by OFSTED, is part of Activate Learning, a pioneering education group which brings Secondary, Further and Higher education together with Apprenticeship and workforce training. 4

5 LEARNER'S GUIDE Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC) - Cardiff Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC) is one of the largest colleges in Wales - transforming education and training across the capital region of Wales. It is one of the largest automotive training providers in the UK and the largest in Wales. Cardiff and Vale College Automotive Training Centre offers a bespoke and responsive service to meet the needs of today s modern, efficient vehicle repair industry. Bridgwater College - Somerset Blackpool and The Fylde College - Blackpool Blackpool and The Fylde College is one of the UK s leading Further Education colleges and an OFSTED grade 1 Outstanding College. The college was recently awarded the prestigious Queen s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education Excellence regarding its partnership work with employers. Blackpool and The Fylde College holds STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Assured Status in recognition of their industry-led skills training. Much of this is delivered at their Advanced Technology Centre, a new multimillion facility that represents a centre of excellence for advanced engineering, technology and automotive solutions across Lancashire. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM AN APPRENTICESHIP Whether you are planning a career change or career progression, you will be equipped with the employability skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace. In our dedicated Ford workshops and classrooms you ll find a wide range of resources to ensure you ll learn relevant skills that you can take back to your employer and apply in your day-to-day duties. You will receive a competitive weekly wage, a full contract of employment and the full costs of all your training will be met. One of the key differences between completing an Apprenticeship and attending university is that you ll graduate without the significant debt that your university friends may have. Bridgwater College is an Ofsted Outstanding College. Its Automotive Department is the lead partner in the national Motor Industry Skills Consortium network of colleges. It prides itself in offering consistent high-quality teaching and training in all automotive vocational areas, throughout all of its high-quality facilities. MENTORING All Ford dealerships have been encouraged to develop their staff to be competent in mentoring Apprentices. We offer training courses to employees in working to help Apprentices develop both their technical and their wider personal skills. The development of this healthy mentoring environment will help turn you from a good Apprentice into a great one. 5

6 FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME CASE SUDY: LEO ROCHA A typical success story ABERDEEN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN LEO ROCHA IS DESCRIBED BY HIS MANAGER AS CONSCIENTIOUS AND SOMEONE WHO TAKES PRIDES IN HIS WORK. The former Aberdeen Grammar School pupil started working in the parts department at AM Phillip in Bucksburn after completing a mechanics course at Aberdeen Altens College. Leo wanted to become a light vehicle technician and Service Manager Gary McDonald was so impressed by his attitude, that he felt a Modern Apprenticeship at the Henry Ford Academy would be the best way to develop his skills. Gary said: He took pride in his work in the stores and made it clear how much he wanted to work and to learn. Leo has the right attitude and is conscientious so it made sense to give him the opportunity. The 21-year-old completed his automotive Modern Apprenticeship last year but has already set his sights on becoming a senior technician and, ultimately, a master technician. He says that working, learning and earning through an apprenticeship has been the best route for him. Leo said: I enjoyed my apprenticeship because I prefer to do something that is hands-on, so it was definitely a good way to learn for me. He added: I would say to anyone who is thinking about an apprenticeship to go for something that they feel they that really want to do because then they will enjoy doing it and get the most out of it. 6

7 LEARNER'S GUIDE FIRST DAY AT THE FORD CENTRES OF LEARNING AND YOU During your first day, you ll be given an induction pack, including important contact numbers and information. You ll receive a presentation from Skillnet, our training partner, introducing you to Ford and the programme ahead. Your managers and parent/s or guardians are welcome to attend this presentation. Behaviour Remember that whilst at the Ford Centres of Learning, you will be representing Ford and your dealership, so you will be expected to conduct yourself in a mature and appropriate manner. Clear guidance is given during your induction. Alcohol and illegal drugs Ford has a zero-tolerance policy towards under-age alcohol consumption and the possession and taking of illegal drugs and substances. If you are under the age of 18 the purchase and consumption of alcohol while attending training is not permitted. If you are found in possession of illegal drugs whilst on a Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme course will be sent home and further disciplinary action will be taken. Parents/guardians will be immediately informed of any situations during training that are believed to be of concern. Sickness In the event of sickness during training, the centre will ensure the appropriate medical treatment is sought for you. As an employee, you are subject to whatever arrangements your Ford dealership has for notification and payment for sickness. Both Ford and Skillnet encourage you to provide feedback throughout your course, which we evaluate as part of a continuous improvement plan. Meals While you are at a Ford Centre of Learning, you will be provided with meals at breakfast, lunchtime and in the evening. Grievance procedure You are encouraged to raise any workplace grievance with your employer. However, you can also speak to the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Hotline on or ultimately, the Chief Executive of Skillnet, to raise any concerns they might have with your workplace. Equipment Whilst you are at a Ford Centre of Learning, we will provide you with the necessary tools and equipment you will need. You should bring your own pens, paper and drawing equipment. When training takes place in the workshop it is vital that you wear overalls and safety footwear at all times. Boots and overalls are provided by the dealership. When attending training at the centre please ensure they are brought. Failure to wear appropriate safety clothing will result in you being unable to train in the workshop. Workplace learner reviews Skills Coaches will visit you in your workplace every six to eight weeks. The purpose of this is to engage you and your supervisor in the review process, set your achievement targets for the weeks and months to follow and identify any additional support you may require. This visit is an essential part of your training and Skills Coaches use a number of teaching, learning and assessment methods to ensure the link between offthe-job training and on-the-job training is strong, thereby ensuring you benefit from the programme. Insurance You will be covered by employer's liability insurance. A copy of this insurance certificate should be displayed at their workplace. 7

8 FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME Terms and conditions Terms and conditions should be set out for an employee within eight weeks of starting work. This applies to all Apprentices. It is vital for all involved that terms and conditions are clearly laid out to avoid confusion and misunderstanding. Skillnet recommend that you take time out to discuss these with your supervisor to ensure a thorough understanding of your employer s expectations. Equal opportunities Skillnet ensures recruitment and selection is a fair and open process and that treatment of all learners is the same. At the recruitment stage, Skillnet collates information from applicants so that we can monitor the effectiveness of our equality and diversity policy. This allows us to identify trends and to take positive action in favour of under-represented groups. In supplying applicants to companies for interview, Skillnet will always aim to put forward the most suitable person/persons for the position offered, in terms of skills, abilities and potential. All learners are questioned during the review process about harassment or bullying issues. Once highlighted to Skillnet, all complaints and grievances are investigated through Skillnet s Customer Complaints and Appeals Procedure. Attendance reporting The employer is responsible for maintaining accurate attendance records as evidence of your attendance at work. This recording system may be audited under requirements set by the government. The Centres of Learning and Skillnet will keep records of attendance whilst you are attending off-the-job training; any instances of lateness or non-attendance will be reported to your employer. Health and safety Ford and the dealers in the Ford dealer network have a legal responsibility to ensure they provide a safe working environment. This involves providing employer s liability insurance and completing risk assessments. As a government-funded training provider, Skillnet has to ensure all the Ford dealerships they work with are providing safe environments for you. Therefore, Skillnet checks all work sites before placing you. Skillnet expects the Ford dealership to carry out initial and ongoing health and safety training at the workplace. Whilst not exhaustive, below is a short list of some key points to bear in mind: All relevant risk assessments, including risk assessments for young persons, as required by health and safety law, shall be carried out, documented and actioned It is the Ford dealership s responsibility to immediately notify Skillnet of any situations involving accidents, occupational diseases and near misses involving Apprentices All other relevant legislation and Codes of Practice, including welfare provisions, are implemented. As a learner, you are entitled to the same protection under the Health and Safety Law as any other employed person In addition to this, you will also have a legal obligation to obey safety rules Wages You will have full employment status; this means you will be paid by the Ford dealership you are working for. As a member of their staff you must work under the conditions laid down by the dealership. In recruiting you, the dealer has agreed to follow a training programme and will release you to attend off-the-job training at the Ford Centre of Learning you attend. You will make full use of your training time. The Ford dealership pay your wages throughout the training time as well as paying a fee to Skillnet to cover the cost of accommodation and travel to and from their Centre of Learning where appropriate. 8

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10 FORD MASTERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME QUALIFICATIONS Functional Skills There are usually three Functional Skills that have to There are usually three Functional Skills that have to be achieved as part of the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme. They are: Maths English ICT The Government introduced this requirement following industry concerns that a significant number of young people were leaving school without acceptable knowledge levels in these areas. Functional Skills are also known as Essential Skills in Wales and Core Skills in Scotland. English, Mathematics and ICT provide you with the essential knowledge, skills and understanding that will enable you to operate confidently. Functional Skills are embedded throughout the programme and unless you are exempt you will be required to pass on-line assessments. All learning is completed online, Functional Skills need to be completed before the end of Year

11 LEARNER'S GUIDE FAQS Does every Apprentice need to complete Functional Skills? You might have covered Functional Skills at school. If you can presents Skillnet with a Functional Skills certificate at the appropriate level, you will be exempt from this element of the Apprenticeship. Likewise, if you have certain GCSE grades in Maths and English, you may become exempt from doing the Functional Skills tests. Is additional support available for Functional Skills? You may cope very well with the technical and practical aspects of the Apprenticeship, but have difficulty in Functional Skills. Skillnet and the Ford Centres of Learning will support you with additional revision and coaching to ensure you attain Functional Skills qualifications. It is important that we identify difficulties as early as possible, generally during the first session of off-the-job training, and we would encourage you to be honest and upfront with us if you are having difficulties. Upon successful completion of the SVQ/VCQ, Technical Certificate and Functional Skills, you will achieve an Advanced Apprenticeship and receive your Apprenticeship Programme Completion certificate. Graduating from the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme We recognise the work that you put into your studies and every year we celebrate that success. This is an excellent way to mark the end of your Apprenticeship and an important staging post in what we hope will be a longterm career for you in the Ford dealer network. Personal development programme As well as developing your work-related skills we want to help you become a well-rounded member of society with skills that will help you in your everyday life as well as your careers. To help this we can provide you with help and guidance in a wide range of subjects such as managing finances, health and fitness and avoiding drug and alcohol problems. Completion of the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme Following your graduation from the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme; if you have been training as a Heavy Vehicle Apprentice, you will have the opportunity to advance your Ford product knowledge further by taking one of the Ford Master Technician product training courses that are available. These courses develop your skills as a Ford technicians, provide an official recognition of your competence and help set the standard for Ford technicians in the network which is so highly regarded throughout the industry. The culmination of these courses can lead you to becoming a full Ford Master Technician. Ford also provides further adult and advanced Apprenticeship training upon successful completion of your programme. This stage of your career development can be discussed with your employer. 11

12 For further details go to Ford Masters Apprenticeship Hotline on USEFUL CONTACTS If you have any concerns or questions at any stage of your Apprenticeship, please do not hesitate to contact the Ford Apprenticeship Hotline on: Useful websites agency For further details go to Ford Masters Apprenticeship Hotline on