It is acknowledged that the present economic situation has made it increasingly difficult for would-be apprentices to find paid-for employment whilst completing their training. The Programme-Led Apprenticeships (PLA) initiative is an intervention measure during these times.
PLA gives 16 and 17 year old school leavers (and up to 24 years for those requiring additional support) the opportunity to gain a full apprenticeship qualification in a chosen skill area. They access this through a combination of in-house directed training and work-based learning placement opportunities with an industry-appropriate employer.
The PLA provision is running parallel to the 'employer-led' ApprenticeshipsNI programme.
Training is delivered against the existing apprenticeship frameworks. This ensures consistency and transferability between apprenticeship provisions. Apprentices participating on the PLA provision are unemployed and therefore qualify for a 'Non-Means Tested Educational Maintenance Allowance' (EMA). They also qualify for payment of travel, childcare and/or lodging allowance where applicable. EMA Non-Means tested is payable up to age 20 years.
"Programme-Led Apprenticeships Operational Guidelines are currently being updated. A revised edition will appear here in due course. Should you wish to enquire on any aspect of the programme please contact Training Programmes Branch at 028 90441867 or email your query to trainingforsuccess@delni.gov.uk inserting Guidelines Query in the subject box of your email."
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