Our project is aimed at encouraging South Thames College learners who happen to have a disability or learning difficulty to give serious consideration to applying for an Apprenticeship Scheme with the opportunity for work experience prior to any application. At the same the project focuses on local employers with the purpose of negating any myths and perceptions they may have regarding the employment of supported learners as well as how employers can make reasonable adjustments to accomodate them. Two seminars had been organised for local employers and invited learners who are supported through our Learner Support Services.
The 2 morning seminars were held at South Thames College venues (the first at our Wandsworth High Street Campus, the second at Merton Campus) in the week commencing 24th February. Over the 2 events we welcomed over 20 representatives of employers and other guests, and were delighted that over 30 students also attended, as well as support workers who were assisting our learners who were partially sighted/blind or deaf/hard of hearing. I attach the seminar agenda for employers.
For the first part of the morning the learners had their own session with colleagues from our Business Unit. The workshop provided relevant information about the Apprenticeship/Traineeship scheme, work on developing an individual CV, examining the application form, and for some plucky learners an opportunity to stand up and talk about themselves and their career aspirations.