Leading provider of care and support services to vulnerable adults National Care Group has unveiled its brand-new academy and apprenticeship programme to help kickstart a career in care for the next generation.
Introduced to pave the way for school leavers to train and develop, the National Care Group Academy and Support Worker Apprenticeship programme offers candidates the opportunity to learn on the job and gain care qualifications at the same time.
With 24 paid positions currently on offer, successful applicants will work alongside colleagues across a range of the company’s services to deliver individual, person-centred support for adults with learning disabilities, mental health illness and complex needs.
Claire Leake, people director at National Care Group, said: “A career in care can often be overlooked by younger generations, however, we are determined to change the narrative through the National Care Group Academy. Through a combination of practical on-the-job experience and academic learning, it will equip individuals for a promising career, molding them into well-rounded carers.
“We’ve watched apprenticeships grow rapidly in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. By allowing individuals to learn in a practical way, at the same time as gaining a qualification, they can develop into exceptional colleagues who will thrive when placed in a working environment. This not only benefits our teams but the individuals undertaking the apprenticeships as they’re better prepared for real-life situations.”
According to a recent report by Skills for Care, the current vacancy rate for adult social care roles in England is more than 7.3%, with more than a quarter of those being aged 55 or above.
Claire added: “There’s no doubt that we need more young people coming into the sector but, most importantly, we want to make sure we’re hiring the right person for the role. Often people can be nervous about putting themselves forward for a career in care due to their academic performance, but this is a common misconception.
“There are no academic requirements to become an apprentice at the Academy. Instead, the ideal candidate is based on personal attributes, including being eager to learn, hardworking, instinctively caring and flexible. All of these traits form the basis of a successful carer within National Care Group.
“It’s a really exciting time to be starting a career in adult social care, and we are committed to ensuring young people entering their careers are supported in the best way possible, through good pay, working conditions and the opportunity to progress. We’re thrilled to finally be at the stage where we can meet potential candidates and give them that all-important first step in the world of work.”
To find out more about the apprenticeships, and to apply, view the role online. To learn more about National Care Group visit their website.
