The CfA have devised a series of Frequently Asked Questions to assist you in your search for information.

What are the benefits of choosing the Young Apprenticeship as my child's option in Year 9?

Opting for the Young Apprenticeship programme is an opportunity to broaden your child's learning experience and help them to make a more informed choice upon completion of their studies at age 16.

Through the programme your child will gain approximately the equivalent of 2-4 GCSEs (this will depend upon the partnership involved), in addition, they will gain 50 days of workplace experience which will provide them with essential Business & Administration skills and knowledge and will be favourable when embarking upon full time employment. Please refer to the progression page for further details on possible pathway .

How will my child get to and from the work placement?

You should refer to the partnership agreement to find out specific arrangements or get in touch with the training provider or lead partner involved. Transport may be arranged if you feel the journey is unreasonably far and difficult and the cost will be covered by the partnership. You will be supported as much as possible by your partnership.

What is an NVQ?

An NVQ is a National Vocational Qualification. On a Business & Administration Young Apprenticeship your child may study towards an NVQ in Business & Administration at Level 1 or at Level 2. This qualification is assessed in the work placement and requires the Young Apprentice to create a portfolio of evidence to prove they have performed work based tasks. The Young Apprentice will be assessed by their supervisor or a representative from the training provider. An NVQ is a nationally recognised and accredited qualification.

What is a Technical certificate?

A Level 2 Technical Certificate is a work-related qualification, delivered in the classroom. Equivalent to A*-C at GCSE, this qualification provides your child with the knowledge required to perform the skills they need for their NVQ. Essentially, it is the theory behind the practice. The Technical Certificate will be taught by a local training provider and will be tested either by coursework or online tests. It can be worth 1-2 GCSEs (this will depend on your partnership).

What is GCSE Applied Business?

Upon completion, GCSE Applied Business will give your child two grades as it is a double award. It is taught in the classroom by teachers at schools, colleges and/or training providers but also requires some contact with employers in order to apply their knowledge. The qualification is made up of themes such as Investigating Business, People and Business and Business Finance. It is assessed by two pieces of coursework with one written examination. It is taught over the 2 year period.

What is BTEC?

BTEC is a type of vocational qualification (Levels 1 and 2) in this instance with a business focus. The qualification will give you child a broad knowledge of business terminology and practice. The qualification will also support their 50 day work placement.

What is a training provider?

A training provider is similar to a school but it is allowed to teach older age groups, as well as under 16s. They often tend to teach courses which develop employment skills and are Government funded to develop a skilled work force.

How can I monitor my child's progress?

Partnerships have a reporting system in place which will include performance targets, learning objectives and timeframes. It is suggested that the reporting system should fall in line with the school's format and should be communicated to you vis 'parent's evening' or by which means has been agreed within the partnership.

Will my child still be able to go on to College and university if he/she takes part in the Young Apprenticeship?

Yes, of course. The Young Apprentice will be studying core GCSEs in English, Mathematics, Science (Double Award) and ICT (Information, Communications and Technology) and will have been selected for the programme due to their ability to achieve A* - C in these subjects. Colleges accept these qualifications and your child can continue on an academic route through college and university. In addition to this, your child will have achieved a vocational qualification at Level 2 which is recognised by further education colleges.

Why should my child study Business & Administration if he/she does not want to go on to be a business person or an administrator?

Business & Administration is an all encompassing subject to study. It is relevant to many occupational roles and even if your child wishes to be an accountant or journalist they will still need to have a good sense of business and they will certainly need to understand administration. By doing a Young Apprenticeship in Business & Administration your child will gain crucial skills which will benefit them in whichever occupation they choose.