College team recognised for supporting apprentices

14/01/2022
Dundee and Angus College Care team is in the running for the Innovation in Learning Provision Award

DUNDEE and Angus College has a long and successful history with Apprenticeship programmes so it was delighted to have this acknowledged this week when the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards announced this year’s shortlist. 

The College’s Care team, comprising staff from both Health and Social Care and Children and Young People, is in the running for the Innovation in Learning Provision Award. This celebrates a learning provider who has developed new or innovative ways to support learning and skills development for apprentices.

The pandemic has hit everyone hard but the Care industry has been at the forefront while also facing a reduction in its workforce due, in part, to Brexit constraints. Meanwhile, young people have had to adjust to new ways of learning, socialising and working.

Covid restrictions meant Foundation Apprentice learners could not attend work placements as normal so the College came up with creative approaches to work-based learning. This included remote placements and work-based activities where facilities replicated a real-life workplace. 

Regional data showed an increasing skills issue in the Care sector so by expanding and strengthening its employer connections, the College provided support where and when it was needed most. It quadrupled Modern Apprenticeship (MA) opportunities – at the last count it has engaged with 40 employers in the MA scheme.

Carol Bain, Head of Curriculum and Quality for Health and Social Care at D&A College, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the fantastic work of our Development Officers has been recognised. During this pandemic, they have shown their resolve by providing creative, innovative ways to support apprentices, whilst also having to manage remote working. True testament of their passion, commitment and professionalism.”

The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards winners will be announced at an online event during Scottish Apprenticeship Week which is from 7-11 March 2022.

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