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Working in a college there must be little more satisfying than seeing a student go on to achieve their ambitions.

So you can imagine the sense of achievement that comes from helping a learner back into work.

For Stockton Riverside College’s Pre-employment and Skills team that is certainly one of the highlights of the day job.

Through the College’s Sector Based Work Academies they are regularly helping people to develop the skills to kick-start their careers and for some that even comes with a job offer!

Now with a new round of six-week Care Academy courses due to start in the New Year, this could be your chance to start your career.



The College’s Head of Pre-Employment, Partnerships and Projects, Joanne Scott said: “Every course that we have run directly with employers so far has resulted in successful job outcomes, while other learners have gone on to find work with different employers in the sector.”

Stockton Riverside College’s Sector Based Work Academies are six week courses run directly with local care employers giving people the basic skills needed to find work in the industry, with a guaranteed job interview at the end.

“For both the learners and the employers it is almost a try before you buy,” said Joanne.

“The employer will come in to meet the learners and do presentations to introduce the company. Throughout the course they will get to know the learners.

“Delivered full-time, five days a week, it is a test of the learner’s commitment to work. They will also get to know if it is the right career for them.”

All who successfully complete the Academy course come away with a selection of job relevant qualifications, including Adult Social Care, a First Aid Level 3 and Food Hygiene Level 2, to help them go on to find work.

Within the last year the delivery of the academies has been extended to Redcar and East Cleveland in partnership with Redcar and Cleveland Council. More than 14 academies have taken place across the Tees Valley, with many learners successfully going on to find work.

Joanne said: “The Care Academies are aimed at anyone with an interest in the care sector and a desire to help people.”

Reaching learners who may not otherwise choose to access further education, she said: “It challenges learner’s perceptions of their own employability skills.

“As the learners work through the course you see their confidence grow and their expectations of what they can achieve change.”

With new courses starting in the New Year, now is the time to book your place. Learners must be aged 18 or above and have an Entry Level 3 standard in English and maths. No previous care experience is necessary. Learners will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.

To get involved or for more details about the courses starting in January and the employers involved call the team on 01642 865561 or email: employability@stockton.ac.uk
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