The Government’s White Paper states in its executive summary that many employers are not satisfied with the basic skills of school leavers going directly into jobs.

By means of the LIFT project employers now have the opportunity of making a real difference to young people by giving them a true insight into the world of work by allowing them to pursue a vocation that is of real interest to them. The vocational education experience will allow employers to demonstrate first hand the importance of key GCSE’s such as English and Maths to the learner. It also allows the employer to make a visible contribution to the local community.


The LIFT project will also introduce employers to the significant changes taking place in education, in particular the 14-19 curriculum. The Education Development Service is keen to develop good working relationships with employers as they will play a key role in the delivery of diplomas. The workplace will offer an alternative place of learning and will motivate many young people. Employers will act as mentors to learners and play a significant role in furthering their skills and talents.

Approved companies will have undergone a vigorous health and safety assessment by The Education Development Service prior to the learner commencing their placement. The employer will take responsibility of the health, safety and welfare of the learner during their vocational education placement. A competent person will be designated for the welfare and supervision of the learner at all times in the workplace. Learners will be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment by The Education Development Service. The host company will comply with RIDDOR 1995 and in case of any accident, sickness, or behaviour considered unacceptable by the placement, they are to report it to The Education Development Service. The school or college will accordingly be informed by The Education Development Service.

This will be agreed to by the employer when completing and signing the vocational education placement safety and wellbeing agreement. The Education Development Service will have on file all companies’ employers’ liability insurance plus health and safety assessment reports on file. Companies will be risk banded and continue to receive health and safety checks by The Education Development Service.

Employers will receive the full support of The Education Development Service ensuring that they too are satisfied with the appointed young person. Employers will be contacted by The Education Development Service each day a learner is scheduled to be in attendance allowing for an accurate register to be complete and submitted to the relevant schools and colleges.