An introduction to sector-based work academies

Sector-based work academies are a way to create a skilled workforce for your business. The schemes are available throughout England to help those who are ready for work, and receiving benefits, to secure employment. Sector-based work academies are designed to help meet employers immediate and future recruitment needs as well as to recruit a workforce with the right skills to sustain and grow your business.

A sector-based academy can last up to 6 weeks. Placements have 3 main components:

1. pre-employment training – relevant to the needs of your business sector
2. work experience placement – of great benefit to the individual and a business
3. a guaranteed job interview.

An important feature of the sector-based work academies is that they offer a flexible approach and can be adapted to meet the needs of your business. The scheme is particularly useful for young people but is open to jobseekers of all ages.

If you are unable to offer all 3 components, our staff may be able to work with you to overcome this, such as enabling you to join together with other employers in a consortium approach.

Participants will remain on benefits throughout the period of the sector-based work academy. Jobcentre Plus will pay any travel and childcare costs whilst they are on the work experience placement. There is no direct cost to an employer for sector-based academies as the costs are covered by government funding.

For further information about Sector-based work academies please contact [email protected] or call 0116 4970671.