Sector-based Work Academy Programmes

Sector-based work academy programmes (SWAPs) are an opportunity for local people who are unemployed to learn new skills in a different area of work where there are jobs, such as care, construction, digital and warehousing. Run by Jobcentre Plus, SWAPs are a national scheme to help employers recruit a workforce with the right skills to grow their business. Each programme offers a flexible approach and can be adapted to meet the needs of the employer.

A sector-based work academy programme can last up to six weeks and has three main components:

• Pre-employment training matched to the employer’s business needs
• Work experience placement to learn new skills on the job and gain valuable qualifications for the future
• At the end of the programme, you will receive either a job interview with an employer or help with the application process.