What will this pathway qualify me to do?
Materials Handler where you ensure that part-machined or assembled products are delivered at the right time and place for further machining or assembly operations. Delivery accuracy is key as well as taking waste out of material movements, or
B-IT Administration Operative where you have an office based administration role involving continuous improvement of manufacturing processes leading to higher quality, reduced cost, and reduced lead times (delivery), or
B-IT Quality Control Operative where you monitor quality in the manufacturing process, generating statistical and graphic data to measure and ensure continuous quality improvement, or
B-IT Shopfloor Operative where you analyse assembly techniques to optimise the process, improving quality, cost and delivery.
What qualifications will I need to complete for the framework?
Competence: Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Business-Improvement Techniques (QCF)
Knowledge: Level 2 Certificate in Business-Improvement Techniques (QCF)
Transferable skills: Key Skills in Application of Number at Level 1
Key Skills in Communication at Level 1
Functional Skills in Mathematics at Level 1
Functional Skills in English at Level 1
Employment rights and responsibilities: Level 2 Award
Personal learning and thinking skills (PLTS): Level 2 Award
These qualifications deliver essential knowledge which supports the key areas apprentices need in carrying out process or quality improvement activities safely and efficiently.
How long will it take?
Depending upon your motivation and opportunities at work to practice and demonstrate competence, at least 6 months – realistically plan for 9 months.
How do I get into this?
This pathway would particularly suit people who enjoy problem solving and organising activities. You may have worked in your sector for a period and are now considering consolidating your knowledge and experience through an apprenticeship. Alternatively, you could be a school leaver who has completed your GCSE studies or in some cases relevant vocational activity such as a Young Apprenticeship or extended work experience.
Where will an apprenticeship take me?
The purpose of this pathway is to enable employees to make a contribution to the overall improvement of the business. The NVQ is about how to continuously improve the processes and procedures involved in carrying out the job. It is likely that Intermediate Apprentices will progress on completion of this pathway to work in various aspects of the business to identify and eliminate waste, create flow and improve quality leading to greater efficiency and increased profitability.
More generally, most ex-apprentices aspire to a combination of internal promotion within the company to team leader or supervisor level, while at the same time taking Further Education qualifications to augment their knowledge. Some will undertake further training and undertake the B-IT Level 3 qualification.