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Academy
Type of school. The term has long been used in connection with the performing arts such as dancing, music or drama. But the government has introduced city academies - now also just called academies - in areas of educational deprivation. Independent state schools with outside sponsors such as individuals, businesses or church groups control the way the academies are run.
Adult Learning Inspectorate
See OFSTEDThe Office for Standards in Education..
Adult/community education
Adult learning outside the formal initial education system. Provision tends to target those aged over 19 and is often community-based. Includes formal education or training leading to a qualification, and a range of learning opportunities that can be significant sources of skill or knowledge development. Learning can be informal.
Apprenticeship
On-the-job training in which people are paid while studying for a nationally recognised qualification, usually with a day or days each week at a college or other learning provider to complement what is learnt in the workplace. There are more than 180 Apprenticeships available across more than 80 industry sectors. There is no set time in which they are completed. All have four components:
* an NVQNational Vocational Qualifications certifying competence
* a technical certificate such as a BTECVocational qualifications at different levels offered by the awarding body Edexcel, certifying underpinning knowledge
* Key Skills
* a course on employment rights and responsibilities
Apprenticeships are currently available at two levels:
- Apprenticeship - Level 2. Takes a year, on average.
- Advanced Apprenticeship - Level 3. Takes two years, on average.
They are open to anyone aged 16 to 24 and not in full-time education. There are no set entry requirements.
Apprenticeships for younger people and those not ready to enter employment are also being introduced:
- Young Apprenticeship - Level 1