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Lewisham College are delighted to present our new Bus Driver Sector-Based Work Academy in partnership with Transport for London and Transport UK London Bus. This course will provide you with the required skills and qualities to start your journey to becoming a bus driver. No day is the same, and the course has been designed to develop your customer service skills, problem-solving, and communication. We are proud to be supporting with the recruitment of the next generation of amazing bus drivers. Applications from women are particularly welcome as they are under-represented within the organisation at this level.

Units include:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills

• Highfield Level 1 Award in Customer Service

Pre-Assessment: Tuesday 21 January 2025

Start date: Thursday 23 January 2025

End date: Monday 17 February 2025

Guaranteed job interview: Wednesday 19 February 2025

Following the pre-employment training and successful guaranteed job interview, learners will be trained on how to drive a London Bus. They will spend roughly 6-8 weeks learning to drive a London Bus and getting their licence at the Battersea-based training depot. Afterwards, they will go straight to their depot for the local induction and route learning. They will then be out on the road as a bus driver. During the training, they will work shifts for at least 38 hours a week. This will include classroom and practical driving training, which will see them working early mornings and late nights.

Requirements:

• You need to be 18 years old or over.

• You need to have a UK bank account and valid Right to Work documents.

• You need to have a full UK driving licence (category B) with at least 6 months experience driving in the UK.

• You need to have an excellent driving history – no more than six penalty points or any drink driving offences in the last five years.

• You need to be able to use a computer.

Benefits, as part of your training, you’ll get:

• An hourly rate of £13.15 per hour, rising to £15.05 - £15.90 per hour.

On completion of your training:

• Training for your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence card (CPC).

• Paid theory and practical driving tests.

• Full training for the routes and services you will be driving.

Working for Transport UK London Bus means you get lots of benefits on top of your salary, including:

• Free travel on all TfL routes for you and a friend or family member (once you’ve worked with us for three months, value c.£8,000).

• Training and development.

• An annual safe driving bonus and high street vouchers for good performance.

• Access to our contributory pension scheme – you put in 5% of your salary each month, and we’ll add 3% on top life insurance (if you sign up to the pension scheme).

• Salary sacrifice benefits – you can choose to get things like a new laptop, smartwatch, TV or phone in return for slightly less pay discounts from shops and retailers – including Apple, Adidas, Nike, Vue, Odeon, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons and more.

• Eye test vouchers.

• Free help from our employee assistance programme to support you personally and at work. This also includes private physiotherapy.

• Opportunities to increase your income through our annual safe driving bonus, our refer a friend scheme and by being awarded our golden tickets for excellent driving and customer service.

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Lewisham College are working in partnership with ISS to run an exciting sector-based Work Academy Programme for Team leader and Supervisor roles within ISS including hospitals, banking, transport, and schools. The course will include a site visit, and on completion there will be a guaranteed job interview.

Units include:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills with elements of ICT
• Highfield Level 1 Award in Customer Service
• NCFE Level 2 in Team Leading
• Highfield Level 2 Award in Infection Prevention & Control in Health & Social Care Setting

Pre-assessment: Tuesday 21 January 2025
Start date: Monday 27 January 2025
End date: Friday 14 March 2025
Site visit for learners: Monday 17 March 2025
Guaranteed job interview: Wednesday 19 March 2025

Duration: 7 weeks (including site visit and interview)
Location: Lewisham College, Lewisham Way, London, SE4 1UT

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This is a 22-day course with a guaranteed interview with IHG Hotels & Resort upon successful completion. The course will consist of developing your employability skills training in customer service Health and Safety and food hygiene in the workplace.

You will also have three day's work experience to get an insight to opportunities in hospitality. This is a SWAP with IHG Hotels & Resorts to progress into job vacancies of front office team member room attendant kitchen porter waiter and other roles in the Hospitality Industry.

Learners will gain interview experience and the following regulated qualifications below:

• Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills
• Level 1 Award in Customer Service
• Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace
• Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering

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This programme is delivered in partnership with Better (GLL) and is a Sector-Based Work Academy Programme designed to help you become a Swimming Teacher.

No previous experience is needed as this course will prepare you for working in this role. You will be working with children and members of the public to teach swimming in Better leisure centres around London. This is a great way to start a new career in the Leisure Industry and can lead to self-employment, and progression into different roles in the sector.

This is a recognised qualification that will allow you to start an opportunity that will open doors to a new career.

Qualification:

• STA Level 2 Award in Teaching Swimming

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This programme is delivered in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and has been designed to support recruits for Civil Service roles across various departments.

You will develop a range of employability skills whilst building confidence, enhancing your CV and understanding the application process by undertaking mock interviews and practice tests.

Qualification: 

• NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills 
• Highfield Level 1 Award in Customer Service

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This programme will introduce you to the essentials of working in Business Administration. You will gain an understanding of the role of an administrator; the procedures for making and receiving calls, delivering effective customer service, diary management, confidentiality and data protection.

You will develop your communication, teamwork and organisation skills, as well as understanding the job application process and effective interview techniques.

Qualification: 

• BIIAB Level 1 Award in Business Administration
• NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills

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This qualification is an introduction to the information and knowledge needed to work in primary, secondary or supported learning schools. It covers the many varied roles that full- and part-time support staff may fulfil, including administrative roles, site support roles, technical roles and volunteers, as well as those roles that work directly with children and young people in the school environment.

Qualification: 

• NCFE Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges

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You will develop practical skills which can allow you to work confidently, effectively and independently in life. These qualifications are designed to build learners’ confidence and support their progression towards gaining the minimum requirements in English necessary for undertaking an apprenticeship, moving into employment or completing further education.

Qualification:

• Functional Skills in English Entry 3

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You will develop practical skills which can allow you to work confidently, effectively and independently in life. These qualifications are designed to build learners’ confidence and support their progression towards gaining the minimum requirements in English necessary for undertaking an apprenticeship, moving into employment or completing further education.

Qualification:

• Functional Skills in Maths Entry 3

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This computer training programme is designed for users who have some experience of using Microsoft Word and Excel and wish to explore the software further to refresh or upgrade current computer skills.

You will increase your knowledge and understanding of how to generate text-based documents and spreadsheets to a higher standard. Completing this course could give you a competitive edge when looking for jobs that require a certain level of proficiency.

Qualification:

• City & Guilds Level 1 Award in IT User Skills

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This Level 1 Award Health and Safety qualification is aimed at learners who want to work in construction. Successful completion will enable you to move on to take the CITB health, safety and environment test, and obtain the Green Labourer Card.

You will develop your communication, teamwork and organisation skills, as well as understanding the job application process and effective interview techniques.

Qualification:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills & CSCS

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This AAT Introductory Level 1 Award in Computerised Accounting will give you an insight into the world of accounting and its associated processes, including; processing accounting information using software, understanding how to use batch control sheets and selecting and using appropriate tools and techniques to present spreadsheet information effectively. This course also includes a Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping.

Upon completion of this course, you could achieve entry-level roles or apprenticeships within accounting or progress onto higher level study.

Qualifications:

• Access Award in Accounting Software Level 1 &
• Access Award in Bookkeeping Level 1

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This programme is delivered in partnership with Caremark (Bromley) and has been designed to support those looking to secure Care Worker roles.

You will study a range of sector-specific units including; NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills, Pearson Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care, Infection Prevention and Safeguarding.

You will develop a range of employability skills whilst building confidence, enhancing your CV and understanding the application process by undertaking mock interviews and practice tests.

Qualifications:

• NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills 
• Pearson Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Infection Prevention
• Safeguarding

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This is a computer course designed for beginners who have no prior knowledge of using a computer, or for those who have experimented a little but need more confidence.

By the end of the course, users will have gained competent knowledge in the use of computers and you could acquire the confidence needed to apply for any work which requires the use of IT. Additional support will be given to help set up an email address and understand how to use the internet to assist in finding suitable jobs.

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This programme is delivered in partnership with CIS Security and has been designed to support those looking to secure Security Guard jobs.

You will study a range of sector-specific units including; Emergency First Aid at Work, Principles of working in the private security industry and Application of conflict management in the private security industry

You will develop a range of employability skills whilst building confidence, enhancing your CV and understanding the application process by undertaking mock interviews and practice tests.

Qualifications:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills
• Level 2 Award for Working as a Security Officer within the Private Security Industry

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This programme is designed to give you the functional skills you need to develop your English skills and increase your chances of securing employment

You will be introduced to speaking, listening, reading and writing in English. A range of topics will be covered including; personal information, work, travel and transport and health and shopping.

You will also develop your employability skills through job searching, interview practice and job application and CV writing workshops.

Qualification:

• Pre-Entry ESOL (Non-regulated)

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This programme is designed to give you the functional skills you need to develop your English skills and increase your chances of securing employment

You will improve your skills within speaking, listening, reading and writing in English and you will become more competent at communicating about a range of topics, from personal lifestyle and work, to travel, leisure and wellbeing.

You will also develop your employability skills through job searching, interview practice and job application and CV writing workshops.

Qualification:

• ESOL Entry Level 1/Entry Level 2 (Non-regulated)

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This programme is designed to give you the functional skills you need to develop your English skills and increase your chances of securing employment

You will gain skills within reading and writing skills, numeracy and. IT. You will also develop your employability skills through job searching, interview practice and job application and CV writing workshops.

Qualifications:

• Basic Skills Pre-Entry
• English (Non-regulated)

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This programme is designed to give you the functional skills you need to develop your English skills and increase your chances of securing employment

You will develop your skills within reading and writing skills, numeracy and. IT skills. You will also develop key employability skills through job searching, interview practice and job application and CV writing workshops.

Qualification:

• Basic Skills English E3 (Non-regulated)

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This programme is delivered in partnership with popular bakery chain, Greggs, and has been designed to support those looking for Team Leader, Shift Leader and Supervisor roles. 

You will study a range of sector-specific units that cover the essentials health and safety in the workplace, the world of retail and food safety in catering. 

You will also develop a range of employability skills whilst building confidence, enhancing your CV and understanding the application process by undertaking mock interviews and practice tests. 

Qualifications: 

• NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills  
• BIIAB Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering 
• BIIAB Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace  
• BIIAB Level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge 

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This programme is delivered in partnership with TST Security and has been designed to support those looking to secure Security roles within the film industry.

You will study a range of sector-specific units including; emergency first aid at work, principles of filming, and working with crew cast & celebrities.

You will develop a range of employability skills whilst building confidence, enhancing your CV and understanding the application process by undertaking mock interviews and practice tests.

Qualifications:

• Emergency First Aid Certificate
• NCFE L1 Certificate in Employability Skills
• NOCN Level 2 Award for Door Supervisors in the Private Security Industry

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This programme is designed to support adults prepare for the world of work with a detailed insight into employment and practical experience to help them with job applications, preparation for interviews, and an understanding of how to detail with different situations in a work setting.

Qualification:

• NCFE E3 Certificate in Employability Skills

This is a 22-day course with a guaranteed interview with Safe Only Ltd upon successful completion. The course will consist of developing your employability skills and training in security work.

You will also have one day work experience at one of the venues that Safe Only Ltd operates.

This is a SWAP with Safe Only Ltd to progress into job vacancies as security officer in the Hospitality industry. You will gain the following regulated qualifications:

• Certificate in Employability Skills
• Level 2 Award for Door Supervisors in the Private Security Industry

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Lewisham College are delighted to be in partnership with LEYF to run a Sector-Based Work Academy Programme for roles within the Early Years education and care field. The course will include a 3-day work placement, and upon completion there is a guaranteed job interview.

The first 5 years of a child’s life is where you can make an impact, create a firm foundation to support their future and create individual pathways. Not every child has a father figure in their lives which is why we are proud to be supporting LEYF with inspiring and encouraging men to also apply for this amazing SWAP.

The Certificate in Childcare Level 1 with Employability Skills, this is a comprehensive program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field of childcare. This course is designed to carter to the recruitment needs of local childcare providers. 
 
Key Components: 

1. Childcare Fundamentals: Learn the core principles of childcare, child development, and age-appropriate teaching methods. 
2. Employability Skills: Develop crucial skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professionalism to excel in the childcare profession. 

Key Benefits: 

1. Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates gain access to various entry level roles such as nursery assistant, nanny, babysitter, playgroup assistant, or creche assistant. 
2. Professional Development: Participants acquire valuable insights and expertise to excel in providing high-quality childcare. 
3. Child Development Focus: The program emphasises understanding child development, benefiting parents and caregivers in comprehending children’s needs. 
4. Earning Potential: Completion of the certificate program can lead to higher-paying positions and career advancement. 
5. Community Impact: Graduates positively impact their communities by providing quality childcare services and supporting families. 

Units include:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills with ICT
• NCFE Level 1 Award in Caring for Children
• 3-day Work Placement

Pre-assessment: Monday 20 January 2025
Start date: Tuesday 28 January 2025
End date: Friday 14 March 2025
Work Placement: Monday 17th March 2025
Guaranteed job interview: Monday 24 March 2025

Duration: 35 days (including work placement)
Location: Lewisham College, Lewisham Way, London, SE4 1UT

Eligibility

Your customer must be aged 19 years+ (before 31 August 2024) and in receipt of UC, JSA, or ESA, and be able to commit to the times and duration of the course.

For more information, and to make a referral please call the Employment and Skills Team on 02037574350. Alternatively, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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The Restore Academy have partnered with Lewisham College to enable course attendees the opportunity to begin a rewarding career within the building restoration industry. The introduction to restoration course will give members the opportunity to learn basic repair and conservation techniques whilst gaining hands on experience on a live heritage project. All will be expected to follow site safety and working procedures to ensure a safe working environment. All attendees will undertake a site induction which will explain all safety measures and safe working practices. Some examples of the very interesting and historically significant/ prestigious buildings in and around London that have been worked on are The Houses of Parliament, The War Office, The Water Tower featured on Channel 4 Grand Designs and many more.

Pre-assessment: Monday 20 January 2024
Start date: Thursday 23 January 2024
End date: Thursday 27 June 2024
Interviews: Wednesday 5 March 2024
Location: Lewisham College, Lewisham Way, London, SE4 1UT

Academy objective

The Restore Academy wants to bring awareness to the many trades and careers available within the conservation industry. Buildings will always require maintenance, and the building restoration industry is in desperate need of diverse and dynamic restoration technicians to ensure our built heritage has a future. The Restoration Academy has created partnerships with a number of organisations, committed to offering interviews to all attendees for apprenticeships and work placements, for both technical and commercial roles. They are very keen to receive applications from women as they are underrepresented in the industry.

Learning Modules

• Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills
• Level 1 Award in Customer Service
• Level 1 Award in H&S in a Construction environment, including CSCS card
• Introduction to the Restoration Industry

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1. Programme overview
2. Pre programme assessment
3. Key Dates
4. Eligibility
5. Referral process

TfL Activate is a 12-week programme for people aged 19+ in receipt of benefits* with little to no work experience. The programme is a mixture of theory and practical learning which aims to:

• Increase the confidence of individuals that experience disadavantages in gaining employment.
• Increase the experience, skills and technical competencies needed to progress within your career journey.
• Increase awareness of the different job roles and opportunities within TfL and the wider transport sector.

People on Activate will:
• Complete Business Administration, Customer Service and Employability qualifications
• Complete 4 weeks work experience within a customer focussed area.
• Complete bespoke TfL training

Skills and qualities needed for programme:
• Strong oral and written skills
• Positive and friendly manner
• Solution focussed approach.
• Commitment to programme duration

Placement area Snapshots

Lost Property (East London)
“We provide “world-class” customer service by handling all aspects of the lifecycle of any lost item received in the Lost Property Office. We are a multi-facetted team that works both face to face and behind the scenes to provide an excellent experience for customers that lose property across the TfL network.” Duties may include manual handling.

Visitor Centres (Pan London)
Visitor Centres are first port of call for millions of people visiting London. Our staff will be on hand to offer a warm welcome and advice on tickets and a range of services to help visitors make the most out of the Capital. Click here to find out more.

Customer Contact Centre (East London)
“We're a multi-channelled contact centre, providing personalised customer service solutions for people using the London transport network and a wide range of other services Transport for London is responsible for. The team prides itself in investigating and resolving a range of customer issues, complaints, and enquiries.

Pre-assessment information

Stage 1 - English, IT and Maths assessment.
Stage 2 – Invitation to interactive assessment

TfL Activate Page 2 of 2

Programme recruitment will include a two-step assessment process. Invitees will be required to complete an English, IT and Maths diagnostic test to demonstrate that they can work to the standard needed to complete programme qualifications. Successful candidates from stage 1 will be invited to attend the 2nd stage assessment. Please highlight any reasonable adjustment requirements during referral.

Key Dates

Activity: Initial assessment
Key date: TBC

*Eligibility & ID requirements
You must be aged 19 years+ and in receipt of JSA, ESA, or UC and be able to commit to the times and duration of the course.
• JCP referral letter or Universal Credit payment screen print (MUST be dated within the last 3 months)
• Valid UK/EU Passport OR All other passports – Must have indefinite leave to remain OR recourse to public funds.
• UK Birth certificate

Referral process

For more information, and to make a referral please call the Employment and Skills Team on 02037574350. Alternatively, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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