Sector-based Work Academy Programmes
A Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) is an opportunity to learn new skills and get experience of working in a particular industry, for example care, retail or security.
The programmes are designed to help jobseekers, who are claiming either Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), to build your confidence, improve your job prospects and enhance your CVs.
SWAPs last up to six weeks, and consist of three parts:
- pre-employment training – a short module of vocational training run by a local college or training provider
- work experience with an employer in the industry, where you can learn new skills on the job
- at the end of the programme, either a job interview with an employer in the sector or if an interview cannot be offered, help with the application process
The programme is designed to help improve job prospects and help employers fill jobs, as each SWAP is linked to one or more genuine job vacancy. While you’re not guaranteed to get a job from completing a SWAP, it does help you to improve your chances of gaining employment in that sector.
You can find out more information, including eligibility and requirements on the gov.uk website.
Is a SWAP for me?
If you are claiming Universal Credit, JSA or ESA, live in England, and are looking for work, then a SWAP could be a great way to find a new job.
You will continue to receive benefits whilst taking part in a SWAP, and if you need to travel to the employer’s place of work or to where the training is held, you may be able to receive help covering the cost of public transport or appropriate childcare.
If you are interested in taking part in a SWAP, you will need to talk to your work coach, who will discuss with you the opportunities available
SWAPs Available:
Care Academy
QUALIFICATIONS:
- City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate for Skills for Working
in the Health, Adult & Child Care Sectors - City & Guilds Entry 3 Certificate in
Customer Service - Employability Programme
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
Construction Gateway
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Health & Safety in Construction Level 1
- Highfield Level 3 Emergency First aid at work
- Construction Groundworks
- Prefabricated Access Suppliers & Manufacturers
Association Card (PASMA) - Construction Skills Certification Scheme Card (CSCS)
EMPLOYER LINKS: VGC
INFORMATION/ASSESSMENT DAY (duration is approx. 2hrs): 14 March 10am and 21 March 10am at the CAT Centre
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
NHS (Non-clinical Roles & Apprenticeships)
QUALIFICATIONS:
- BIIAB Level 1 in Business Administration
(Non-Clinical) - City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate for Skills for Working
in the Health, Adult & Child Care
Sectors (Clinical) - City & Guilds Entry Level 3 in Customer Service
- Employability Programme
EMPLOYER LINKS: Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
INFORMATION/ASSESSMENT DAY (duration is approx. 2hrs): Wed 22 March 10am at Black Country Skills Shop
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
Security SIA SWAP
QUALIFICATIONS:
- City & Guilds Entry Level 3 in Customer Service
- Employability Programme
- Highfield Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work
- Highfield Level 2 Door Supervisor
- SIA Badge paid for by Dudley College
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
Civil Service
QUALIFICATIONS:
- BIIAB Level 1 in Business Administration
- City & Guilds Entry Level 3 in Customer Service
- Employability Programme
EMPLOYER LINKS: Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
INFORMATION/ASSESSMENT DAY (duration is approx. 2hrs): Wed 8 March 10am at Black Country Skills Shop
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: date TBC
Hospitality
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Level 1 Award in Skills for Working in the Hospitality
& Catering Industry - City & Guilds Entry Level 3 in Customer Service
- Employability Programme
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
Retail
QUALIFICATIONS:
- City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Skills for Working
in the Retail Industry - City & Guilds Entry Level 3 in Customer Service
- Employability Programme
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
Warehouse & FLT Training
QUALIFICATIONS:
- NCFE Level 2 in Principles in Warehousing & Storage
- City & Guilds Entry Level 3 in Customer Service
- Employability Programme
- Counterbalance Forklift Truck Practical & ITSSAR
Trained Operator Passport Scheme Card (TOPs Card)
COURSE DATE: Please enquire for details, there are many starts throughout the year.
MEET THE EMPLOYER: Date TBC
Interested?
Complete this form below and a member of the Black Country Skills Shop team will get back to you. Alternatively you can call us on 01384 363790.