Vigilance can reveal that Skills for Security under its ‘100 in 100’ Scheme will employ 100 apprentice in the security industry between now and October this year.
This programme has the strong backing of the British Security Association.
The scheme which was launched at this year's IFSEC exhibition and developed in conjunction with the BSIA, NSI, SSAIB, CSL Dualcom and UBM aims to employ at least 100 apprentices in the security industry by the time the Security Excellence Awards take place in early October, where the results of the challenge will be announced.
The all-inclusive programme of 100 in 100 challenge covers all types of apprenticeship, including installation engineers, manufacturing engineers, business administration, Human Resources, marketing and PR, all types of roles that the security industry is well-placed to offer, allowing young people to develop unique skills, experiences and a fulfilling career in a dynamic and ever-changing industry.
Usually Apprentices take around 18 months to gain Level 2 qualifications, with a further 18 months required to take the apprentice to a Level 3. Employers taking on the challenge will be responsible for paying employment costs of at least the minimum wage (for 16-18 year-olds and 19-year-olds in the first year of their apprenticeship. Employers will also be required to provide work-based training within their company.
However, Skills for Security has committed to taking care of all paperwork for those companies wishing to take on an apprentice, from initial sign-up to appointing the college or training provider. It will provide qualified assessors to guide and monitor progress and will draw down government funding on the company's behalf. Currently, 100% government funding is available for apprentices aged 16 - 19, with reduced government funding available for 19 - 25 year-olds.