1. Purpose of this Policy
This policy sets out how apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship opportunities are created, delivered, supervised and evaluated at the HEADTURNED Foundation. It applies to all programmes hosted within the Sanctuary, Innovation Hub, Vertical Farming campus, conservation activities, education spaces, and media teams.
2. Programme Principles
All apprenticeship pathways must:
- align with real employment opportunities across the Foundation’s pillars;
- provide meaningful, practical experience supported by expert staff;
- include structured learning outcomes and supervision;
- meet relevant awarding-body or regulatory requirements where applicable;
- promote learner welfare, inclusion, dignity and safeguarding at all times.
3. Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways
Pre-apprenticeship programmes provide early exposure to sector-specific skills, especially for young people, career changers, or individuals returning to work. These may include workshops, short courses, shadowing, structured volunteering or taster placements.
Pre-apprenticeships are designed to build confidence, foundational knowledge, and readiness for formal apprenticeship routes.
4. Apprenticeship Structure
Each apprenticeship must include:
- a defined role or specialism (e.g., animal care, horticulture, robotics support, conservation);
- a curriculum or competency framework with clear learning outcomes;
- a workplace supervisor or mentor responsible for day-to-day development;
- regular progress reviews and documented feedback;
- reasonable adjustments where required for accessibility.
5. Supervision, Safety & Welfare
Apprentices must be supervised by trained staff with the relevant expertise to support safe, meaningful learning. All programmes must integrate appropriate safeguarding, health and safety, and wellbeing considerations depending on the environment—especially when working with animals, machinery, field sites or visitors.
6. Fair Access, Selection & Inclusion
Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship opportunities must be advertised fairly, with transparent selection criteria and support available for those who may face barriers to participation. Selection must focus on potential, attitude, and commitment—not only prior experience.
7. Assessment, Progression & Completion
Assessments must be fair, transparent and linked to the learning outcomes agreed at the beginning of the programme. Successful completion may include a certificate, portfolio, reference, or—where formally accredited—a recognised qualification.
Completion does not guarantee employment, but apprentices should receive clear guidance and next-step support.
8. Partnership Delivery
Where apprenticeships involve external providers, awarding bodies or education partners, responsibilities must be clearly documented. The Foundation ensures that external partners meet our safeguarding, welfare and ethical standards.
9. Withdrawal, Early Ending or Suspension
In rare cases, apprenticeships may be ended early—for example due to safety concerns, misconduct, or inability to meet essential requirements. Any such decision will follow a fair, documented process with opportunities for learners to discuss concerns and access support.