Learner Support

At Skills Group, we take great responsibility in ensuring we support you and your learning through every stage of your development.

All learners with Skills Group have a dedicated mentor who will be on hand to provide impartial advice and guidance. They will liaise between the employer and Skills Group trainers to ensure that each learner is on track with their learning plans and reaches their potential.

We will work with you from the day you apply to identify your individual learning support needs that could be key to your success.

Support options are available to all students and include:

Induction Programmes

When each learner starts with Skills Group, we provide a comprehensive induction programme which includes:



  • Meeting the training team and other learners on the programme

  • A tour of the training centre and facilities available

  • An overview of the programme

  • Health and safety, first aid and our emergency procedures

  • Taster sessions

The aim of this induction is to ensure you feel fully comfortable and supported in your working environment before you start your course.


Individual Learning Plan

Every student will be supported in developing an Individual learning plan. This document will serve as a tailored roadmap that not only outlines academic goals but will also address individual needs and aspirations. By collaboratively creating a personalised plan, apprentices can establish clear objectives, track their progress, and identify areas where they may require additional support. This helps to build a sense of ownership over your education, making you feel more empowered and motivated.

General Learner Support

If you are struggling with elements of your learning, there is a range of support available which includes:


  • Assignment support

  • Study skills

  • Revision sessions

  • Dedicated mentors

  • Personal development Plans

  • Impartial advice and guidance

  • Study groups



Additional Learning Support

If a learner has any additional social or learning support needs, such as dyslexia or anxiety, it is important to make us aware. They will be assigned a mentor from our support teams who will ensure any additional support requirements are readily available to them.

Specialist Support

At Skills Group, we understand the need for a more holistic approach extending beyond education and work. We are proud to be able to offer specialist support services to our students to help to ensure that every learners wellbeing is a top priority. Whether you require assistance with mental health concerns, sexual health guidance, or pastoral support for personal development, we have a dedicated team ready to provide the help and resources you need.



Cost of Living Support

We understand that more than ever, there are increased financial burdens facing the students of today. Our aim is always to do everything we can to ensure our student’s wellbeing, health and safety needs are and we acknowledge that a big part of this is being able to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. We offer all students a free nutritious breakfast daily, access to a food bank where required and above all else, we are always here if you are concerned about being able to afford food or have more general cost of living concerns.

SEND Support

At Skills Group, we believe that education should be inclusive and accessible to all. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support to learners with disabilities or those who have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP). Our commitment to ensuring that every individual can access and excel in their apprenticeship journey is reflected in the wide range of tailored support services we offer. From personalised learning plans to assistive technology and dedicated staff, we are here to empower learners with diverse needs to thrive and achieve their educational and career goals.


External Support Contacts

If you would prefer to speak to a professional service away from the Skills Group, we have included a list of useful contacts below.


  • Samaritans – 24/ 7 support dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that leads to suicide 116 123 Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen

  • Shout – 24/7 Text service for anyone in crisis 85258.

  • Mind – Ensuring you don’t face your mental health problems alone.

  • The Zone – Information, advice and support service.

  • Anxiety UK – Support for anxiety, fear and stress. The National charity helping people with anxiety.

  • Childline – Advice, support and guidance, as well as access to 1:1 counselling.

  • HeadsTogether – Reducing stigma and getting people to talk.

  • Andy’s Mans Club – Talking groups for men, #ITSOKAYTOTALK.

Learner Support

SEND Support

Specialist Support

Safeguarding

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School