Learn with Rewards Training

Multiply Project with West Sussex County Council

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 09:56:30 GMT

Rewards Training are delighted to announce that we will be supporting West Sussex County Council (WSCC) in the delivery of the Multiply project.

Multiply is a new government-funded programme to help adults improve their numeracy skills. You can access free numeracy courses through Multiply to build your confidence with numbers and even gain a qualification (if you choose to).

Good numeracy skills may unlock job opportunities and lead to higher wages or prepare you for further study. They also help in everyday life, such as helping children with homework and budgeting money.

Our Multiply learning programme is designed to take a gentle approach to numeracy, without the necessity for a mandatory exam. The Multiply programme focuses on numeracy skills development to support sustainable employment, rather than a focusing on attaining a qualification. Of course, you can opt to sit a funded functional skills exam if you wish!

Please get in touch here to discuss enrolment.

Aspire Sussex's Closure

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:38:34 GMT

All Aspire Sussex Learners are Welcome at Rewards Training Recruitment Consultancy!

Rewards Training is saddened by the news of our industry peer; Aspire Sussex, going into administration. Rewards Training is able to support those learners effected by these events. Please get in touch to discuss your learning programme.

Our employer e-brochure provides details of all the Apprenticeships/Traineeships and training programmes we have available.

We're a Finalist: ECITB Approved Training Provider of the Year

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 10:29:51 GMT

We're delighted to announce that Rewards Training Scotland are a finalist at the Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards 2021.

Category: Approved Training Provider of the Year

Rewards Training will be attending the Awards Dinner and Ceremony on Thursday 21 October in London. For information on our ECITB Approved courses please click here .

4 Top Tips for Managing a Remote Team

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 10:06:09 GMT

Over the last 18 months many businesses have had to adapt to the new normal of remote working. While restrictions ease, many workplaces will offer a blended approach and allow staff to continue working remotely for the majority of the time.

We wanted to share our top tips on how to ensure business continuity when managing a remote team .

1. Ensure an adequate set up

Make sure to check in with all employees on how their working from home conditions are. Do they have all the necessary equipment to do their job? Tools such as web-cams, microphones and so forth may be needed so virtual meetings can take place effectively. It’s also worth considering the ergonomic set up employees have at home, it may not be viable to supply office chairs etc. However, you can still provide helpful information to help staff are set up to work in a comfortable and appropriate manner.

2. Stay Connected

Make a conscious efforts to keep an open flow of communication. Set expectations on how is best to communicate with one another and how often employees should update the business. Similarly, it’s important that any organisational change or business updates are communicated in a concise way that ensures everyone is felt updated.

3. Culture is still crucial

Company culture and values will always be an important part of an organisation. Even if employees aren’t working in the same shared space, it is still important to embrace company values and keep the culture alive. Consider tone of voice in email communications, remind employees regularly of company policies. What’s more you may need to get creative, if well-being, work-life balance are values of your organisation consider new ways to honour this while working from home.

4. Embrace the new norm that is working from home, and welcome the change
There are many benefits to our new ways of working such as time efficiencies and providing employees with greater flexibility! As a manager, this presents an opportunity to manage your team from a different perspective, empower employees to work independently and as a business perhaps change the way you deliver for the better.

If you are a team leader, supervisor or manager and are looking to build upon your skills as a leader, you can find out more about our online

Leadership and Management qualifications available here.

Reward Training Signs Good Youth Employment Charter

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 16:21:15 GMT

We've signed the Good Youth Employment Charter, as part of our continued commitment to helping young people into employment through our Apprenticeships and Traineeships.

What is the Good Youth Employment Charter?

The Good Youth Employment Charter has been developed by Youth Employment UK, in collaboration with a range of youth employment experts and young people.

It aims to provide a framework to support, inspire and recognise all those employers who are committed to providing good quality opportunities to young people.

The 5 recognised principles of the charter are:

Creating opportunity
Recognising talent
Fair employment
Developing people
Youth voice

Who Are Youth Employment UK?

Youth Employment UK are a group aimed at supporting young people into employment. Youth Employment UK is an independent, not for profit social enterprise founded in 2012 to tackle youth unemployment.

They actively tackle youth unemployment by:

Giving young people a voice on the youth employment issues that affect them
Supporting young people with the skills and careers support they need to progress
Supporting employers to develop and be recognised for their youth friendly employment practice
Connecting young people to Youth Friendly Employers
Providing expert insight across all youth employment policy areas

Throughout the summer of 2021 Youth Employment UK is coordinating a national campaign called #CreateYourFuture which we will be participating in.

The campaign is designed to help young people build confidence in next steps relating to skills, careers and training/education.

Looking for an apprenticeship or traineeshi p?

Get in touch to find out more or click here .

Supporting Young People in the Wake of Covid-19

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 16:05:22 GMT

In the wake of Covid-19, young people in Crawley have been hit hard when it comes to the employment opportunities available to them. Rewards Training is stepping up to help combat this deficiency by supporting young people into sustainable employment .

With Crawley’s close proximity to Gatwick Airport, which closed for much of the pandemic, local businesses have struggled with many making staff redundant. This in turn, has limited the amount of employment opportunities available to young people. The furlough (Job Retention) scheme has provided a lifeline for many, Crawley being the place most reliant on the scheme. As the job retention scheme comes to an end, there is potential for further redundancies.

"With 1,400 jobs already gone at the airport - there are going to be more when the furlough scheme unwinds - we've got to be particularly careful to protect young people in the community.”

Andrew Ayres, Director of Rewards Training

Rewards Featured on BBC News. Read the full article here .

Rewards Training is working closely with local business and young people in the area ensuring that young people have the skills and knowledge required to secure sustainable employment, in a dramatically changed job market. Rewards is able to offer support to young people in the area by being in the fairly unique position to offer Apprenticeships, Traineeships and Employability training programmes across a variety of different sectors.

“We're seeing an initial demand in the hospitality sector as that comes out of hibernation, but other sectors will be slower to come back. We really need to make young people aware of the schemes that are out there.”

Andrew Ayres, Director of Rewards Training

Many young people leaving school this simmer will struggle to secure employment in the current market. Those in this situation are encouraged to take up apprenticeships or traineeships to enable them to make a strong start to their career and learn the skills needed to be successful in their chosen sector.

“At Rewards Training we are dedicated to supporting young people into sustainable employment, doing so though our range of Apprenticeships, Traineeships and Employability training programmes. Young people are the future of our country, and it is vital that are able to make a strong and successful start to their careers.”

Marion Ward, CEO of Rewards Training

For further information on Apprenticeships, Traineeships or other training please contact us her e.

We're on BBC News!

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 13:07:31 GMT

BBC News: The young people fighting to save their careers

BBC's Senior Economics Correspondent, Darshini David recently interviewed some of our amazing apprentices about youth employment options around Crawley.

Our apprentices discussed how the pandemic impacted their employment opportunities and how they are now undertaking fantastic apprenticeships to adapt, reskill and change roles.

Pictured above: Ella Sparrows, Apprentice at Rewards Training.

Photo credit: BBC

Our Director, Andrew Ayres also gave a detailed interview, talking about how Rewards Training supports young people in our community to gain skills, knowledge and employment.

When Can I Watch?

Broadcast is currently scheduled for this evening, Wednesday the 9th of June and is expected to feature on both the 6 o'clock and 10 o'clock news.

You can also read the full BBC article here.

Our employer e-brochure provides details of all the Apprenticeships/Traineeships and training programmes we have available. There is government funding and incentives of up to £3K available until September 2021 for employers who recruit an apprentice.

Tackling Misconceptions about Hiring a Young Apprentice

Fri, 28 May 2021 09:24:43 GMT

Wendy Nobbs, our Director of Sales and Recruitment shares her experience.

I’ve had a long Learning and Development career within the Banking, Insurance, Utilities and Membership industries. In my last role, as an L&D Business Partner, I was responsible for our apprentice Harry who had recently joined the team aged 17 after dropping out of college. My initial thoughts were that he was going to be a ‘time bandit’ and someone I just need to keep occupied for a year until he completed his qualification… how wrong I was!

My work life received a fresh injection of new experiences and learning on a daily basis. Unexpectedly, I experienced youth again by seeing our business and life in general through the eyes of a 17 year old who brought modern thinking, creativity, passion and a competitive appetite for personal success. Recently, three years on, I met up with Harry – he has progressed into a Learning & Development Advisor role, responsible for delivering the LMS (Learning Management System) training strategy for a large investment company in London.

Harry has said he’s willing for me to share his views to help employers understand the benefits they apprentices bring to the workplace.

He said “Working with an amazing and supportive HR team and being given the opportunity to work on so many transformational projects whilst completing my apprenticeship, honestly, changed my life. I learnt so many new skills and how to behave appropriately in a business environment. After my first year with the company, I was given the opportunity to lead on two projects: the implementation of a company-wide Apprenticeship programme, along with a new LMS system, both resulting in significant cost savings for the business. This gave my confidence a massive boost and I became hungry for new challenges. Being part of a team where I was trusted and given the opportunity to really get involved in the business made achieving my L&D qualification easy as I had access to so many opportunities to learn and gather real evidence throughout.”

Back to me, Wendy: I joined Rewards Training Consultancy to help promote Apprenticeships after having benefited personally from supporting the Apprenticeship journey in my last role. We are here to help businesses achieve their own L&D and, ultimately, business goals. I have a fantastic and experienced team, passionate about training and supporting their apprentices to achieve their qualifications, who also understand the value that Apprenticeships bring to business. We provide Recruitment Solutions as well as delivering Apprenticeships, in the Business, Hospitality and Care sectors, predominantly throughout the South.

All too often, we speak to employers who say, “We do not have the time or resources to invest in an apprentice.” I felt the same, I had targets to meet and didn’t need a distraction. I never considered the fact that an apprentice could help me achieve my goals and influence a change in my attitude, behaviour and aspirations, at the same time.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story – I hope that it has encouraged you to take a moment to reflect on your own business.

Could you or your business benefit from the modern thinking, creativity and passion for success that an apprentice could bring? If so, please get in touch to find out how we can help.

Want to read a bit more? Our employer e-brochure provides details of all the Apprenticeships/Traineeships and training programmes we have available. There is government funding and incentives of up to £3K available until September 2021 for employers who recruit an apprentice.

5 Top Tips for Employing an Apprentice

Tue, 04 May 2021 12:24:11 GMT

Taking on an apprentice is mutually beneficial for your business and your new employee.

Investing in apprentices, allows your business to ‘grow your own talent’, with people who can become the future of your organisation. Apprenticeships are also a great way to support the economy and provide a young person an excellent start in the world of working.

We’ve pulled together our top tips into welcoming a new apprentice into the workplace and getting them off to a flying start.

1. Prepare before they start

Prior to your apprentice starting, put aside some time to get prepared for them joining the team. Ensure they have all the tools to do their job such as; an effective workstation, email address and log in details. As part of your preparation ideally have an induction plan ready, outlining what will happen in their first few weeks, such as meeting the team and on the job training .

2. Take time with their induction

Once your apprentice has started, take time to show them the relevant policies and procedures of the business, such as health and safety procedures, an organisational chart and the companies vision and values. From taking some time to discuss the vision and values, the apprentice can quickly understand the business they are working for and how important it is. Ensure to remain patient during this time and check your apprentice understands everything. This can often be their full-time first job and they may be feel nervous. A well carried out induction will help put your apprentice at ease and ensure they feel supported in their new role.

3. Manage expectations from the start

It’s a good idea early on to outline what is expected of the young person at key milestones. Such as by the end of their first week, month, quarter and then importantly what they need to do to ensure they pass their probation period. It's also a good time to outline how regularly you will want an update on their workload, best practice in terms of communication in the office and general office etiquette.

4. Get them started and enjoy the benefits
Apprentices are enthusiastic and often quick learners and with a proper induction and training, they will take on their new role with ease. So don’t hesitate in getting them started on their key duties, you will be pleasantly surprised at how much value your new apprentice can bring. It will also allow others in the business to provide support and coaching them. Apprentices can bring a new lease of life to organisations if the person is filling a skill gap shortage.

5. Ask for feedback
It’s really valuable to ask your new apprentice for feedback on their induction process and how supported they’ve felt. Fresh eyes in an organisation can provide valuable feedback on how things are done, provide key learnings and things to improve on. Often when a business takes on a Modern Apprentice this is something they do again and again, hence it’s worthwhile putting an effective process in place early on.

Looking to take on an apprentice?

Not only do we deliver apprenticeships but we also have an apprenticeship recruitment service. Employers can currently get up to £4,000 when taking on an apprentice!

Get in touch to find out more or click here .

How an Apprentice Changed My Work Life

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 14:59:37 GMT

Wendy Nobbs, our Director of Sales and Recruitment shares her experience of taking on an apprentice within her team.

I’ve had a long Learning and Development career within the corporate world and in my last role, I was responsible for the management of our apprentice who had recently joined the team aged 17 after dropping out of college. My initial thoughts were that they were going to be a ‘time bandit’ and someone I just need to keep occupied for a year until they completed their qualification… how wrong I was!

My work life received a fresh injection of new experiences and learning on a daily basis. I experienced youth again by seeing our business and life in general through the eyes of a 17 year old who brought modern thinking, creativity, passion and a competitive appetite for personal success. They are now responsible for delivering the training strategy for a multinational organisation.

In October 2019, Rewards Training approached me, looking for someone with my experience to drive Apprenticeships in business. I have a fantastic team, passionate about supporting their learners with their qualifications and understand the value that Apprenticeships bring to business. We provide Recruitment Services as well as delivering Apprenticeships in the Business, Hospitality and Care sectors throughout the South.

All too often, we speak to employers who say “We do not have the time or resources to invest in an apprentice.” I felt the same, I had targets to meet and didn’t need a distraction. I never considered the fact that an apprentice could help me achieve my goals and influence a change in my attitude, behaviour and aspirations, at the same time.

Could you or your business benefit from the modern thinking, creativity and passion for success that an apprentice could bring? If so, please get in touch to find out how we can help.

Overcoming uncertainty when starting a new role during the pandemic

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 12:12:31 GMT

If you are about to start a new job in the coming months, you may be wondering what’s in store for you. There is no doubt the on-going pandemic has transformed the way many companies are operating and it can be daunting to know what to expect when starting a new job remotely.

Here’s a few tips to help you settle in with your new virtual team.

1. Remember, it won't as bumpy as you may think

Starting with a new employer during a global pandemic has it challenges but there’s many positives too. Firstly, working from home means you are guaranteed to find the office on the first day - hooray! Online platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom allow for real time, face to face collaboration, meaning most inductions can be successfully carried out online. Take advantage of these platforms and make a conscious effort to book in time with your co-workers, to e-meet and establish relationships early on. For colleagues who you will be working with regularly, discuss their preferred channels to communicate and embrace these new ways of working and collaboration.

2. Flexibility and understanding is key

During this time, companies have had to learn to become flexible and understanding to the new ways of working. Whether it’s your dog barking in the background, wi-fi issues or adapting to a completely new delivery of a service, both colleagues and clients are likely to be understanding. Whilst it's important to remain professional while working from home, remember there’s one thing we all have in common - we have all been adapting to these new challenges. Therefore, be kind to yourself and realise everyone understands there has to be a degree of flexibility. You can manage client expectations by making an effort to communicate new ways of working and keeping an open flow of communication. This will help to ensure they are well informed and know how to reach you.

3. Your well-being and personal development is a priority

Just because you are not in an office environment, it doesn’t mean your well-being as an employee is any less important. When starting a role, key areas to consider are;

Outline expectations of your job role and ensure you have the tools to do your job effectively. If you feel there is equipment or resources that you don’t have access to at home but may need, make sure to voice this to your employer early on.
Within the first few weeks of your role take the time to consider if there is any additional training or support required that will help you to develop in your new role?
Ensure you make a conscious effort to communicate to your line manager and colleagues. Regular check-ins will allow you to air any concerns and gage your progress, so you feel on track.

4. Enjoy the experience and trust that the future is looking bright

The fact you have been successful in securing a new role during such unprecedented times is a real positive. Enjoy your new role and take advantage of being the ‘new person’ taking time to ask questions and immerse yourself in the business. For many, working from home has been a positive change and improved efficiency. What’s more, it’s clear to see that businesses, regardless of industry, are now looking ahead. Many are looking to hire again, committed to investing in their employees and are optimistic about the future.

Training to support you in your new role

Rewards Training have a range of training opportunities that can help support you in your new role.

From work-based qualifications such as apprenticeships to management qualifications to soft skills training.

Get in touch to find out more or click here.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships. What's the difference?

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 18:27:17 GMT

Work-based training that will give you the crucial skills to boost your career prospects.

If you’re looking for a job, you'll know how competitive it can be out there. Many employers look for people with experience – but how do you get experience in the first place? It can sometimes be a catch-22 situation.

Apprenticeships and traineeships are great routes into employment for those lacking the experience employers might be looking for. This type of on-the-job learning allows you to gain experience, new skills and qualifications. So what's the difference between the two and which one is the right route for you?

Apprenticeships

A great alternative to university for those looking for a practical approach to learning.

An apprenticeship is a job where you gain a nationally recognised vocational qualification, while working. It's a great way to earn a salary, learn new skills, achieve a qualification and gain valuable experience

By the end of your apprenticeship, you'll hopefully have gained the skills and knowledge needed to either succeed in your chosen career or progress onto the next apprenticeship level.

Traineeships

Suitable for those

Unemployed and have little or no work experience
Eligible to work in England
19-24 years old

A traineeship is a course with work experience that gets you ready for work or an apprenticeship.

A traineeship will include: work preparation training, a work placement for minimum of 70 hours, basic skills training and vocational training.

You won’t be paid, but you may be given expenses for things like travel and meals.