Skillseekers is a proven vocational-based career option available to young people aged 16 to 19 years, who would aim to achieve a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ), or other equivalent national qualification at level 2, which can take on average between 1 to 2 years to complete.

These qualifications will enable young people to gain valuable practical experience with the ability to put their new skills to work right away – making it good for business.

Modern Apprenticeships are a qualification-based career option for the technicians and supervisors of the future who are aiming to achieve a Scottish Vocation Qualification (SVQ) at level 3 or above.

Modern Apprenticeships are available in a whole range of occupations at craft, technician and junior management level. There is a structured framework for training, designed by industry to meet the growing demand for more skilled employees. They will take, on average, between 2 to 4 years to complete.

New For 2010: Due to new funding rules by Skills Development Scotland, all Modern Apprenticeship programmes are only available to those over the age of 16 and under the age of 20 years.

Work-based (Vocational) Qualifications provide a structured training programme, offering employers an ideal way to recruit and develop a capable and highly motivated workforce. The programme is immensely varied in scope and is available in almost any occupational area at varying levels. SVQ Level 2 qualifications are available through Skillseekers, SVQ Level 3 qualifications are available through Modern Apprenticeships.

The direct costs of training of the Skillseeker and Modern Apprenticeship programmes are fully funded in most instances, by Skills Development Scotland. Additional support towards the cost of travel and lodgings may also be available for employees who are attending college as part of their training programme.

However, you as their employer, will be required to pay them a wage appropriate to the industry and level at which they are working. You should also allow them time to learn and practice.

Vocational qualifications and training are recognised as being essential to business success. As the training is delivered in the workplace, and is flexible, the skills and practical experience are often better tailored to your specific business needs than straight forward academic qualifications. You will also have the chance to develop the abilities of your workforce to ensure they play a strong role in business performance.

Train Shetland is a Training Provider. We organise, provide and co-ordinate the training for the employer and trainee, organising the appropriate college attendance, give information on the length of the blocks and organise appropriate workplace assessments if required. We provide information on the National Standards and qualifications for the industry. We organise and book travel and accommodation for trainees going to college.

While the trainee is undergoing their Skillseeker/Modern Apprenticeship we monitor their progress. Review visits will be carried out by Train Shetland in conjunction with the workplace supervisor. Train Shetland will contact you beforehand to arrange a suitable time; these visits will initially take place every 6 weeks. As the trainee progresses through their training, visits will gradually extend to every 10/12 weeks. On each visit, the Training Co-ordinator will require to see the trainee for 15-20 minutes, followed by the supervisor for 5-10 minutes. If there are any problems or issues to be discussed the review visit may be extended.