Parents & guardians guide
West Herts College is highly rated by Ofsted and the Adult Learning
Inspectorate and we're here to help and support every step of the way.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a framework of qualifications nationally recognised
to meet industry standards.
It is designed for people who are fully employed in their chosen
industry and who have GCSE grades A - G or six months experience within
their chosen career.
How do Apprenticeships operate?
Apprentices attend College one day each week (this may vary within
different vocations), with the four remaining working days spent at work,
gaining practical on the job experience. A training consultant will visit
the Apprentice in the workplace approximately once a month, for one-to-one
support and assessment.
The work and assessments completed by the apprentice are collated into a
portfolio of evidence. This is verified within the College and is then
externally verified by the awarding body.
How can I help?
At West Herts College, we encourage parents and guardians to become
involved with supporting the apprentice right through the programme. There
are a number of ways you can help them ensure they achieve all
that is required:
- Encourage them to organise their work - ensure they have basic items
such as pens, paper and folders to store their work
- Most practical classes will be accompanied by a workbook, which is
completed by the apprentice and signed off by the Training Consultant.
Ensure they realise the importance of this workbook and look
through it occasionally to see how much work has been signed off
- It is essential that the apprentice strives for 100% attendance with
the theory sessions so that they have a thorough understanding of their
subject and are well prepared for tests
- Encourage them to hand in assignments on time
- Contact the College if you have any concerns about your son or daughter's
lack of progress simply by ringing 01923 812000 and ask for Work-based
Learning
Training Consultants and Apprentice Programme Officers welcome input from
parents and guardians in order to take appropriate action to help solve
problems and difficulties being faced by the learner.
Our aim is to produce a solid support structure for learners, giving them
the necessary support and guidance to help them achieve their goals.