Training Services

WORK TRAINING IN OUR SHOP

Many people with learning difficulties want to work and be trained in work. However opportunities for realistic work experience, training and employment are limited. This is the main driving force behind the Guideposts work training schemes in our shop in Ware.

The shop provides a real working environment, and has proved to be a very successful work training project, for adults with learning difficulties. The students on placement have constant exposure to the public, and everyone handles cash and operates the cash register, with the appropriate level of support., with an emphasis on customer care. In the shop, students learn how to meet and greet customers and help them with their purchases, to set up the displays, order and handle stock and to operate effectively and efficiently in a real retail environment.

Our shop manager is a  fully accredited NVQ Assessor and as well as supervising the training of the adults with learning difficulties on placement has successfully guided students through to gaining the NVQ Level I/II in Retail.

Benefits to the students:

of having a placement have been clearly identified.These include:

• Personal qualities such as punctuality, smart appearance and willingness to participate.
• Opportunity for students to gain NVQ Qualifications.
• A feeling of confidence and a chance to expand horizons
• Retail and customer service skills
• Communication and social skills
• A friendly, supportive and hard-working environment
• Experience of team-work
• Skills and confidence and support in seeking work

Many of our trainees have successfully entered paid employment on completion of their training.

Guideposts work training and our work placement and experience schemes give people an insight into what work is all about, and offers a step towards leading an independent life.

“It is a good way to learn about working in retail. I learnt how to use the till, pricing, serving the public and signing for goods.It is a good way to start”.
Ernest

Shop importance
The emphasis of this training is to move people on into paid work. In the past few years we have been successful in supporting individuals to achieve paid employment once they have completed their training in the shop.