New programmes aim to boost workforces in key worker sector

Photo (from left to right): Head of Higher Education at Blackburn University Centre Caroline Bracewell, Services Manager for Adolescence Services at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council Clare Bibby and Principal and Chief Executive of Blackburn College Dr Fazal Dad

Blackburn University Centre has launched a brand-new course and Apprenticeship – Children, Young People and Families Practitioner CertHE.

The programme is being kick started in partnership with local authorities including Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

Staff working within the Council’s children and young people services will enrol on the Apprenticeship programme – designed to support them to develop a range of skills and professional expertise.

Following successful completion, each Apprentice will achieve a CertHE qualification from validating partner – UK Top 10 Lancaster University.

The programmes feature a range of new and contemporary topics of study including ‘Health and Wellbeing’, ‘Working with Families and Professionals’ and ‘Early Childhood, Adolescent and Adult Development’.

Dr Fazal Dad, principal and chief executive at Blackburn College, said: “We are proud to play a pivotal role in supporting the development of a critical key worker sector. This programme will empower students and Apprentices with the most up-to-date sector knowledge and skills.”

Janet Sweeney, lead consultant for HR workforce development at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council said: “We are delighted to be working with Blackburn University Centre to develop our workforce at what is a truly critical time for the sector.

“This CertHE programme will help to equip our workforce with the relevant knowledge and practical skills through work-based learning.”

The new CertHE can be found online at www.blackburn.ac.uk. Applications are open for an immediate start.