Safeguarding Structure
We have a strong and holistic structure of support, placing our apprentices at the heart of our apprenticeship programme. Our learner focused approach to Safeguarding and Welfare recognises that understanding and responding to individual experiences is key to providing effective and valuable support for all.
We have a multi-layered support structure that ensures that Safeguarding and Welfare is at the forefront of delivery. Our team consists of staff who support all learners on their journey, from our Trainers, Assessor Coaches, Designated Persons for Safeguarding, our dedicated Safeguarding, Welfare and Inclusion Lead for all Volkswagen Group apprentices and our Central Safeguarding Manager who oversees all areas of our Safeguarding and Welfare to ensure our practice is consistent, relevant and meets all the required legislation and statutory guidance. We work together to make sure every individual can engage with their training and learning, either at the National Learning Centre or in their dealerships.
Each member of the team has an Enhanced DBS and is trained effectively in best safeguarding practice and can either deal directly with apprentices or refer and signpost to the relevant staff member who will continue with their ongoing support. We link with external agencies where required and have good relationships with organisations that offer information and guidance to ensure positive outcomes for our apprentices. Every individual can be assured that they can speak to all staff should they need to. The high-quality wrap around support we offer ensures that learners can continue to learn and train uninterrupted whilst accessing bespoke support.
As an education provider our aim is to ensure all pastoral care and support that learners may have in their previous settings continues and we work closely with parents and guardians for our under 18 learners to offer individual support. Our Safeguarding, Welfare and Inclusion Lead is available to discuss any questions you may have about the programme structure and the support we can offer for your young person.
Diversity & Inclusion
Every person on our apprenticeship programme is respected as an individual and we commit to consistently being a welcoming environment for all. We treat each other with respect and kindness, continually celebrating our differences and productively challenging discrimination so everyone feels safe to be who they are, without prejudice and bias. We have a strong commitment to inclusion, working with every individual learner to ensure they have the appropriate support and resources available to them throughout their apprenticeship journey. We work hard to ensure that all members of our community feel supported and recognised, we listen to our learner’s voices and aim to positively help them through their individual learning experience and ultimately achieve their qualification.
Welfare Curriculum
Alongside our outstanding technical programme we have a broad range of additional curriculum topics like our optional lifeskills e-learning modules and workbooks on real life issues. Monthly ‘Hot Topics’ also provide an opportunity for apprentices to learn about broader equality, diversity and inclusion subjects as well as how to keep themselves safe and recognise risks that may present themselves in the workplace or in their private lives.
Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG)
As part of our welfare support, we have a number of external charities and organisations that we can signpost to for Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG). This information is essential as part of our ongoing education and support for learners and staff alike. From mental health and wellbeing services to support for individuals with caring responsibilities, learners can seek support that is tailored and relevant to their own circumstances. This extensive list offers appropriate external support options, and direct route to a variety of care providers. As providers of training to the Automotive sector we have a particularly close relationship with BEN, the support charity that are there specifically for the automotive industry.
To find out more about what BEN offer please click here.