Directory of Apprenticeships

Employment rights and responsibilities include:

·         the rights and responsibilities of workers (including equal opportunities legislation)

·         the organisation, disciplines and representative structures of the sector

·         the impact on the sector of public law and policies

Some aspects of Employment rights and responsibilities (ERR) are covered by and evidenced through the NVQ and technical certificate.  Aspects not covered in this way must be specifically addressed through an induction programme to be delivered by the employer and/or training provider.  Evidence of the ERR outcomes will be internally verified by the provider and signed off by the candidate, provider and employer using the completion form included in the ERR guidance developed by TDA.

The ERR guidelines have been updated to reflect changes in legislation.  Mapping between the NVQ/technical certificates and the ERR requirements has been carried out to show where different aspects are covered and which aspects need to be covered by the provider/employer induction programme.

Some aspects of the ERR requirements should be completed within three months of starting the apprenticeship to ensure that apprentices are safe to take on the appropriate level of responsibility for the pupils they support.  These include, as a minimum, safeguarding, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality.  Apprenticeship programmes, therefore, should be carefully planned to ensure coverage of these areas within the first few months.

The TDA has developed induction materials for teaching assistants which many Local Authorities use to deliver introductory training programmes.  The induction materials cover aspects of the ERR requirements such as health and safety and safeguarding.  Training programmes for safeguarding and child protection are also provided by Local Authorities.  Providers should take account of any prior training when planning ERR programmes for individual apprentices.

The TDA is also developing guidance to support school based induction and introductory training for school support staff; both of which will support employers and providers in planning and delivery of induction programmes to meet the ERR requirements.