Learner Journey

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The information below details a typical Learner Journey for those studying for an Apprenticeship or NVQ qualification.

Initial Assessment

A member of Zodiac Training will visit your place of work to carry out an initial assessment which establishes your training needs and the needs of the business. During this assessment we will discuss preferred learning styles, such as e-learning as well as course content, the structure of the programme and funding. They will then assign you the most appropriate Zodiac Training Advisor for the training you are about to undertake.

Induction - Meeting your Zodiac Training Advisor and drawing up your Individual Learning Plan

The Training Advisor who has been assigned to you will visit you in your place of work to discuss your qualification and help you choose the optional units of the course which are most appropriate for your job role.

Together with your Training Advisor you will draw up your Individual Learning Plan (ILP). An ILP is like a road map, showing you how you will get from the starting point on your learning journey to the desired end point - your qualification. The ILP is a ‘live’ document and will be frequently updated as you progress to reflect your growing capabilities.

Your induction will be completed by registering you with an awarding body and providing you with the resources you will need to complete your qualification.

Adult literacy / numeracy test (if necessary)

In some cases it may be necessary to take a Literacy and/or Numeracy test before you begin your qualification. Your Training Advisor will have discussed this with you fully during the induction process. Your Training Advisor will also provide you with all the advice, guidance and support you will need to understand and pass this test.

Work-based learning

Most of your qualification will be carried out at your place of work. Approximately once a month your Training Advisor will visit you at work to deliver learning and activities and help you to build up a portfolio of evidence which supports your qualification.

Your Training Advisor may also provide feedback to your employer at this time and, if relevant, work on your Key Skills accreditation and Technical Certificate (applies to Apprenticeships only).

Internal Verification

As you reach the end of your learning journey you will be asked if you feel ready for your work to be assessed by a Zodiac Internal Verifier. If you do then your Training Advisor will draw up an Assessment Plan and the Internal Verifier will review your work to ensure it meets the required standard of the qualifications’ awarding body. In the event that your work does not meet the required standard your Training Advisor will determine the specific additional learning you require. Your Training Advisor will then deliver that specific learning and resubmit your work for assessment by the Internal Verifier.

Certification

Once your work has been successfully verified you will be awarded your qualification certificate. Your qualification is an internationally recognised achievement and reflects your new learning and capabilities. Following your qualification you may want to discuss progression onto further qualifications with your Training Advisor.