Provision of Information Advice and Guidance (IAG)

Policy Statement

Zenos, as an approved LSC provider of Advanced Apprenticeships, and Train to Gain programmes, will provide appropriate impartial Information Advice and Guidance service to potential candidates, and current learners at programme recruitment, whilst participating on programmes, and on exit from programmes.

Aims and Objectives of the Zenos Information Advice and Guidance Service

1. To provide information advice and guidance to potential candidates and existing learners which:
   1. Results in retention rates of over 90%
   2. Results in programme success rates of over 90%
2. All learners to:
   1. Have an individual interview
   2. Receive an initial assessment of key skills
   3. Agree an Individual Learning Plan
   4. Have their progress reviewed at least every three months
3. In addition, all employer based learners:
   1. To complete a skills Scan against their job role

Scope of the Zenos Information Advice and Guidance (IAG) Service

The Zenos IAG Service will apply to candidates who apply for, and learners who participate, on Zenos Employer Based Advanced Apprenticeship, Academy Based Advanced Apprenticeships, and Train to Gain Programmes.

Description of the Zenos Information Advice and Guidance Service

Zenos provides all its applicants and learners with Information Advice and Guidance in relation to training and working in the IT Professional sector. Information Advice and Guidance is embedded with Zenos programmes and delivered over four stages:

1. As part of the application process in order to assist applicants in making the right choices of suitable Zenos IT Professional training programmes
2. At the commencement of Zenos programmes via comprehensive information at induction, and the use of initial assessment to agree appropriate individual learning plans
3. During the period of training as part of Zenos strategy to retain learners, on programmes, and to provide the right guidance that gives learners the best opportunity to complete the agreed qualifications / framework
4. On exit from Zenos programmes to support learners to progress into relevant employment, higher education, or to further advance their IT career prospects

Zenos provides the following resources in respect of delivery of the IAG service:

1. Information of opportunities and programmes in relation to the IT Professional sector
2. Guidance on the right provision following an assessment of training needs
3. Pastoral support and guidance on-programme to assist retention of learners on the programme
4. Information available from each of our academies on additional support available from local agencies
5. Information and advice on career enhancement or other training options on completing Zenos programmes
6. Staff with the relevant knowledge and experience of an IT professional role

Responsibilities

Zenos Business Development Executives and Career Consultants are responsible for providing information advice and guidance to prospective applicant on recruitment to Zenos Programmes. Programme Facilitators, Student Liaison Officers, Trainers, and Training Centre Managers provide learners with on programme support to retain learners and enable them to successfully complete their qualifications / programme frameworks. Employment Consultants and Programme Facilitators provide learners with guidance on exit from Zenos programmes in relation to employment opportunities and career advancement in the IT sector

Zenos Managers such as Programme Managers, Regional Careers Managers, and Regional Training Managers have responsibility for line managing the front line IAG services.

Quality Assurance & Evaluation

The provision of IAC services is quality assured via the collection and analysis of participant feedback, and analysis of key performance data in respect of learner retention, achievement and placement rates. Zenos Line Managers will be responsible for monitoring the front line delivery, including the observation of the IAG service, and identifying areas for continuous improvement.

The outcomes from feedback and from Zenos Managers will be subject to discussion at routine Zenos Management Meetings.