Sector-based Work Academy Programmes

Sector-based work academy programmes are an opportunity for local unemployed people to learn new skills in a different area of work where there are jobs, such as care, construction, digital and warehousing.

We fund all 20 further education colleges across the region and a number of independent training providers to deliver these training programmes in the West Midlands region.

Sector-based work academy programmes are a national scheme, run by Jobcentre Plus, to help employers recruit a workforce with the right skills to sustain and grow their business. Each programme offers a flexible approach and can be adapted to meet the needs of the employer.

A sector-based work academy programme can last up to six weeks and has three main components:

• Pre-employment training matched to the employer’s business needs
• Work experience placement to learn new skills on the job and gain valuable qualifications for the future
• At the end of the programme, learners are guaranteed either a job interview with an employer or help with the application process

Anyone aged 19 and over who receives unemployment benefit is eligible to join a programme – and won’t lose their benefit during the placement.

There is no direct cost to employers, as training and administration costs are covered by Government funding.

If you are an employer and would like to find more about how a sector-based work academy programme could benefit your business, you can find out about the independent training providers.

If you are unemployed and would like to learn new skills by joining a sector-based work academy programme, talk to your local Jobcentre for more information.