What is an accessible Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job with training which allows people to earn while they learn, while gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
For those with a current or historic Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), Learning Disability Assessment (LDA) or Statement of Educational Need (SEN) adjustments can be made for both maths and English entry requirements, and working hours/duration of the apprenticeship programme
Why ACL support accessible Apprenticeships?
Almost all apprenticeships can be made accessible and having additional needs shouldn’t restrict people’s employment opportunities. Employers, Education and Training Providers, have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for disabled jobseekers, and therefore should be able to provide additional support during training.
The government Access to Work scheme can provide grants to pay towards specialist equipment and support costs within the workplace, such as a job coach or support worker. For these reasons, apprenticeships can be a great route for individuals with additional needs to get skilled jobs.
Available to individuals aged 16+ (with no upper age limit)
Achievement of a full Entry Level 3 is a minimum requirement for those with recognised special educational needs, learning difficulties or disabilities, who would otherwise struggle to achieve the regular math’s and/or English minimum requirement. If you have already achieved the equivalent of level 2 in maths and English, you will be exempt from this element of the programme
All apprentices will earn a salary of at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices which is currently £5.28* per hour. Many employers pay more!
Most apprenticeships take between 1 – 3 years to complete. It will depend on the level and delivery model of the apprenticeship
Apprenticeships range from level 2 to level 7
If you are a jobseeker over the age of 16 and interested in an accessible Apprenticeship opportunity with ACL (Adult Community Learning), please feel free to contact the Targeted Employment Team Targetedemployment@essex.gov.uk
I’m 16-18
We are looking for rising stars that know what they want and are serious about achieving it. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain the theory behind your chosen career whilst gaining practical hands on experience in a real job.
I’m 19 Years or Older
You may be looking to gain your first step on the career ladder or be looking for a career change. We will work with you and your line manager to set up a programme and agree a learning plan.
Upcoming events
Our teams will take you through all the necessary information, available opportunities, and answer any questions you may have so that you can make an informed decision.
Apprenticeship Vacancies
Our range of apprenticeship are perfect for individuals looking to improve their career prospects.
Latest news & case studies
We continue to share inspiring apprenticeship and employer case studies, news and events in our latest new section.
Contact us
If you wish to make a general enquiry or provide feedback on your experience with us, you can contact us using the options below.
If you wish to let us know that you are unable to make a lesson or session please send us an email with your full name, course code and the specific lesson day/time you are unable to attend to acl.absence@essex.gov.uk