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The Media College - Advanced Apprenticeship

Student GuidanceCreative & Digital Media

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Introduction

The Creative Media Industries are rapidly evolving and converging. New entrants must have an understanding of this convergence, alongside specific media knowledge and transferable or softer skills. Employers look for enthusiastic, work-ready individuals who have good literacy and numeracy, strong IT skills and a good understanding of what it takes to work their way up in creative media – including the capacity to work hard, efficiently and in teams. Many roles require a combination of technical and creative abilities. The aim for this apprenticeship is to develop digitally savvy and work-ready employees who are multi-skilled and can work cross-platform. This apprenticeship has been developed by our industries, for our industries, and presents exciting career opportunities for new entrants. This document includes information related to the components of the Advanced Apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media in England We are happy to provide any guidance and assistance to employers or providers who would like to take on an apprentice using this apprenticeship.

Information in this guide has been extracted from Skill Set publication on Creative & Digital Media Apprenticeship guide

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The apprenticeship components An apprentice learns on the job and works with you in your company. This work experience is supported by a training provider or college who, in agreement with you, teaches supplementary technical skills and additional knowledge to benefit your business and the apprentice. What the apprentice learns will be decided by you in partnership with the apprentice and the college. The Advanced Apprenticeship in Creative & Digital Media comprises a number of components, some qualification-based, and others related to important skills and knowledge which prepare apprentices for the world of work. As well as the individual components, an apprentice should be provided with additional support on and off the job, to enhance their learning and development. The diagram below indicates the relative proportion of each of these components in the overall make up of the apprenticeship. A summary description of each of these components is given on the next page

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Competence element: Apprentices learn and are assessed on practical, work-related tasks designed to help them develop the skills and knowledge to do a job effectively. In this Apprenticeship, there are a number of mandatory competence units and then a range of optional units that are chosen for their relevance to the apprentice’s job role. Knowledge element: This covers the technical skills and knowledge/understanding of theoretical concepts relating to the occupation or job role, together with knowledge and understanding of the industry and its market. This is usually delivered outside the workplace and supports and enhances the Apprentice’s work based learning Transferable skills: These are core skills that are transferable across sectors and include communication, application of numbers and ICT (information and communication technology)

Personal learning and thinking skills (PLTS): These give learners the opportunity to develop and demonstrate generic learning skills that enable them to progress with learning and prepare for the world of work and to become: independent enquirers, creative thinkers, reflective learners, team workers, self-managers and effective participants Employer rights and responsibilities: Apprentices need to demonstrate that they know and understand the range of employer and employee statutory rights and responsibilities under employment law, health and safety and equality and diversity procedures and documentation for their organisation Additional activities: These activities enhance the apprentice’s learning and development and can take the form of mentoring, coaching or other forms of support and guidance Apprentices must complete a common competence qualification

and one of three knowledge qualifications. The three knowledge qualifications offer complementary units, which can be tailored as flexibly as the competence qualification. Details of the mandatory and optional competence units can be found on pages 6 – 17. The options available within the knowledge qualifications are listed on pages 18 - 21.

The minimum amount of Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for this apprenticeship is 750 and the average delivery time is 15 months

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Apprenticeship coverage This apprenticeship covers new entrant roles in the following areas:

� Archives � Animation � Film � Interactive media � Photo imaging � Publishing � Radio � TV

Apprentices and employers will be able to tailor the advanced apprenticeship to suit their needs, using combinations of units that cover the following areas:

� Recording and editing journalistic material � Technical skills of editing across different media � Technical skills in radio, TV, interactive media and post production � Ideas development � Research � Story-finding � Narrative � Archiving � Writing and editing copy � Understanding diverse audiences � Customer service � Team working � Communication and presentation � Pitching to employers � Exploiting converging technology � Digital end to end processes � Project management � Craft and technical skills � Photo imaging � Radio production � Employability � Working as a freelancer

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Competence Element In an apprenticeship, the competence element ensures that the apprentice learns and is assessed on practical, work-related tasks designed to help them develop the skills and knowledge to do a job effectively. In this Apprenticeship, there are a number of mandatory competence units and then a range of optional units that are chosen for their relevance to the apprentice’s job role. These units have been developed by Skillset in collaboration with industry practitioners and awarding organisations. Assessment will take place in the work environment, or may be simulated where appropriate industry standard facilities exist. X1, X2, PW1, PW2, PW3, PW4, PW5 and PW6 are mandatory units, and the remaining units are optional. The PW units, collectively called ‘Preparing to work in creative media’, serve as an introduction to the generic skills and knowledge required of new entrants in the creative media industries. These units cover the Personal Learning and Thinking Skills as well. and are a mandatory part of the apprenticeship. Whilst there is no prescribed order in which the units must be taken, it is suggested that the Preparing to Work units are taken covered in the early stages of the apprenticeship Learners must gain a minimum of 71 credits for this competence element. The mandatory X and PW units account for 36 credits, meaning learners must complete optional units totalling at least 35 credits to complete the competence element. Any combination of optional units can be chosen. However for radio, the units are structured in such a way that learners can take a broad combination of units, or choose one of six specialised pathways: content; technical production; production; research; image and commercial production; presentation. All these competence units sit within two common qualifications (please see links for further detail): Edexcel Level 3 Diploma in Creative and Digital Media

Learners must ensure that at least 50% of their total credits for the competence element are at Level 3. An explanation about levels can be found at the end of this guide.

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The Competence Units (unless indicated, all units are at Level 3). X1 Contribute to good working relationships (L2) This unit emphasises the need for good communication during a production process. Learners will be able to agree and revise working arrangements and resolve any communication problems that might arise in the workplace. This is a mandatory unit. (4 credits, 30 GLH) X2 Ensure your own actions reduce risks to health and safety (L2) Learners will investigate hazards and risks within their workplace and their own specific role. They will identify any unsafe working practices and take action to address potential problems. Finally, learners will assess their own conduct against relevant legal and organisational guidance. This is a mandatory unit. (4 credits, 30 GLH) PW1 Awareness of employment in the creative media sector This unit focuses on the varying types of employment status and their implications on legislation and taxation. PW1 also teaches learners how to select prospective employers, produce a professional CV and pitch a creative idea. This is a mandatory unit. (6 credits, 40 GLH) PW2 Communicating and presenting ideas in the creative media sector This unit requires learners to understand various methods of communicating in the workplace, including influencing and persuading others. It also requires learners to consider how to present creative ideas and evaluate their own performance. This is a mandatory unit. (5 credits, 30 GLH) PW3 Awareness of converging digital technology in the creative media

sector Learners will research the changing face of creative media, and how technology is affecting audiences and workforces. Learners will also consider how converging media can be used to reach new audiences and generate new revenue streams. Finally, learners will plan research tests to exploit converging technology. This is a mandatory unit. (6 credits, 40 GLH) PW4 Professional behaviour in the creative media sector Learners will examine the cultures of creative media organisations and their strategies for ensuring that conduct is professional. They will also gain experience in agreeing timescales and budgets, constructing project plans and personal development plans, and will understand the importance of each of these business tools. This is a mandatory unit. (5 credits, 30 GLH)

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PW5 Creative media industry awareness Learners will research and examine the industries within the creative media sector, and the links and dependencies between them. They will also focus on particular teams and their responsibilities within an organisation, roles of individuals within teams, and the concept of a product life cycle. This is a mandatory unit. (4 credits, 25 GLH) PW6 Awareness of health and safety in the creative media sector Learners will be able to identify good health and safety practice within the sector. They will focus on the Health and Safety at Work Act, carry out a risk assessment, and suggest ways of reducing risks within a specific job role. This is a mandatory unit. (2 credits, 15 GLH) F1 Manage and market yourself as a freelancer This unit focuses on the essential skills needed to work freelance in the sector. Learners will be able to manage and market their own skills and services, as well as understanding contracts, accounts and personal development. (6 credits, 60 GLH) P1 Contribute ideas for production This unit aims to enable learners to originate, develop and present ideas for production. They will also be able to develop existing ideas by suggesting improvements, and will understand how ideas are realised within different media and formats. (6 credits, 40 GLH) P5 Identify sources of information Learners will undertake research in order to fulfil a brief. They will be able to find the right sources and people to assist in the process, take legal, copyright and compliance issues into account, and present their findings clearly. (5 credits, 30 GLH) P6 Obtain archive material Learners will develop the skills to select archive footage, still pictures and audio material for productions. They will also be able to present their recommendations and arrange for the material to be included in the production, obtaining necessary permissions and licences and ensuring that material is transferred in an appropriate format. (8 credits, 50 GLH) P7 Contribute to office-based pre-production This unit aims to provide learners with the skills to co-ordinate pre-production activities within the production office. They will be able to order and receive equipment, understand priorities and know how to deal with contingencies. (9 credits, 60 GLH)

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P13 Clear copyright materials In this unit, learners will develop the skills to research and contact copyright owners and obtain clearances as directed by the producer. They will also carry out negative checks and maintain accurate records of all agreements. (4 credits, 30 GLH) IM2 Obtain assets for use in interactive media products This unit requires learners to research, locate and obtain clearance for any assets for to be used in interactive media products. Learners will liaise with relevant parties and prepare specifications for the creation of original assets where necessary. (5 credits, 30 GLH) IM3 Prepare assets for use in interactive media products This unit involves digitising assets where necessary, manipulating them to ensure they meet product requirements, balancing asset quality against file size and other parameters, saving assets in appropriate file formats and providing assets in an appropriate manner to enable easy use by others. (9 credits, 60 GLH) IM15 Write and edit copy for interactive media products This unit aims to enable learners to prepare text for an interactive media product. It involves writing, editing and checking copy, and an understanding of the target medium/platform and any relevant legislation. (7 credits, 40 GLH) IM24 Create 2D animations for interactive media products In this unit, learners will create two-dimensional animations for use as part of an interactive media product, to a specified brief. It assumes the learner has the necessary skills to create animations and focuses on the application of these skills in an interactive media context. (10 credits, 60 GLH) B9 Record audio-visual journalistic material For this unit, learners will record effective audio and visual material, selecting and using the correct equipment and recording techniques whether in a studio or on location. They will be able to identify and deal with equipment failures and breakdown, and ensure that equipment is always secure and available for use. (7 credits, 60 GLH) B13 Edit audio-visual journalistic material Learners will use editing and sequencing skills to create an attractive, unambiguous narrative and news story. It will enable them to show competence when using different systems and techniques. They will be able to simplify complex material, and recognise and rectify technical and journalistic errors. (7 credits, 60 GLH)

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C4 Obtain, prepare and return camera equipment (L2) This unit aims to enable learners to obtain, prepare and return camera equipment. It involves ordering the equipment required for the shoot, testing the equipments and keeping adequate records. It also involves ensuring that appropriate packing and clear labelling and documentation methods are used. It includes checking the equipment and returning it after use and complying with relevant regulations. (6 credits, 40 GLH) C7 Lay simple track for dollies (L2) This unit involves establishing the suitability of the surface that the track will be used on, and the type of track relative to the size and weights to be carried. It also involves assessing any risks and preventing any damage to surfaces or track. (6 credits, 40 GLH) C10 Rig and manage cables for production (L2) This unit involves identifying the correct cables for a production, ensuring that they are available, and confirming that all the information regarding routing and connecting is understood and adequately disseminated. Learners will position cables to ensure that they are not damaged and that they do not present safety risks. (6 credits, 40 GLH) C17 Provide assistance to the camera crew during a multi-camera

shoot (L2) Learners will assist with cable handling, providing specific assistance to a camera operator to facilitate a particular shot, and obtaining and rigging any additional equipment. The unit also includes obtaining materials for, or providing other assistance to camera operators who are unable to leave their operational positions. (9 credits, 80 GLH) CCL1 Prepare camera equipment for each day’s shoot (L2) This unit will require learners to identify relevant equipment, and understand how to handle, store, transport and care for it. Learners will test, transport and set up camera equipment in preparation for a shoot. (10 credits, 80 GLH) DMI8 Support visual preparation (L2) Learners will support the production of artwork by producing drawings to a specification. They will be required to ensure they understand the requirements of the drawings on which they are working, make adequate preparations and then prepare drawings which fulfil the creative intention. They will circulate the artwork to the appropriate parties and know how to store items. (6 credits, 40 GLH) DMI28 Strike sets for television and video production (L2) Learners will work to a programme of activities designed to make the strike tasks flow efficiently. They will be required to assist with disassembling and packing set dressings and props, and return them to the appropriate location/supplier. They will also maintain accurate records. (8 credits, 50 GLH)

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E2 Monitor and maintain post production equipment (L2) This unit involves checking what supplies and equipment are needed, making sure that the post-production environment is clean and safe for use, and checking that equipment is working. It requires accurate labelling of materials, and monitoring and keeping records of their storage and movement. This is a technical editing unit. (8 credits, 50 GLH) E3 Transfer materials to non-broadcast formats (L2) Learners will find source materials, check they are in the right format and identify the transferring and/or file conversion required. They will be required to prepare, handle and operate machines safely. They will also be required to record the correct source material and assess the completed copies for technical quality and accuracy. This is a technical editing unit. (6 credits, 40 GLH) E5 Capture picture and sound for non-linear editing Learners will capture pictures, graphics and sound from various formats, in preparation for non-linear editing. They will be able to check that the system and equipment are ready for the work, and to line up picture and sound. The unit also involves identifying and storing captured materials, monitoring technical quality and dealing with any problems that may arise. This is a technical editing unit. (8 credits, 50 GLH) E18 Ingest materials for fast turnaround programming Learners will intake material onto a broadcaster’s system. The unit requires them to work quickly and accurately to acquire material from a number of local and outside sources. They will be able to capture the material correctly, ensuring that the picture and sound are adjusted correctly and that accurate metadata is added. This is a technical editing unit. (9 credits, 80 GLH) PI1 Apply copyright & other laws relating to usage & licensing of

images The unit aims to enable learners to understand and apply the laws relevant to their work and their rights relating to production, usage and ownership of images. It covers negotiating rights and dealing with any infringements, and with licensing and assigning their work to others. (5 credits, 40 GLH) PI2 Agree the photo imaging brief Learners will be required to discuss client requirements in detail, recognise the possibilities presented and gather information necessary to develop and ultimately agree the brief. This unit will also require them to evaluate possible approaches, follow their creative values, and to negotiate and secure client agreement on the work to be done, making all necessary administrative arrangements. (5 credits, 40 GLH)

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PI3 Plan and organise photographic assignments This unit covers the administrative activities involved in setting up photo assignments and carrying these out; finding a location, hiring equipment and materials, and legal and ethical issues. (7 credits, 50 GLH) PI7 Undertake photographic assignments This unit aims to enable learners to take images under a variety of circumstances including portrait, still life and for specified shoots. It covers small, medium and large-format cameras, working in indoor and outdoor locations, with people or objects, and where applicable, following instructions to ensure that images produced are fit for purpose. (10 credits, 60 GLH) PI16 Undertake technical adjustment of images In this unit, learners will understand the development of the editing approach and the production of image files to meet the client’s requirements, using industry standard packages. The unit requires an understanding of relevant legal and regulatory issues. (7 credits, 60 GLH) PI17 Prepare image output This unit involves preparing and producing different forms of output using different devices and materials. It includes reviewing output and discussing issues with relevant parties. Learners will also understand relevant legal and ethical considerations. (6 credits, 50 GLH) PI20 Undertake colour management procedures The unit involves calibrating and profiling hardware to maintain colour accuracy from image capture to output and is likely to include using a range of technology and equipment including digital cameras, scanners, monitors, proofing devices and printers. (6 credits, 50 GLH) PI21 Undertake image asset management This unit includes electronic and manual methods of archiving, conservation, storage, preservation, security, access, retrieval, and the monitoring and control of images. It also involves the application of colour management techniques as well as the resources required and available. (5 credits, 40 GLH)

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RC1 Work effectively in radio The unit aims to familiarise learners with the core knowledge, skills and attitudes required to work effectively in radio. It includes having an enthusiasm for radio and a broad understanding of the medium of radio and its possibilities, and its place in a converging media world. It also includes an awareness of the legal and regulatory environments in which the radio industry operates, an understanding of how to work creatively and effectively as part of a team, a good level of technical competence and general IT skills, familiarity with up-to-date industry standard equipment and software, and how to keep own skills and knowledge up to date. (6 credits, 50 GLH) RC2 Research the structure of the radio industry The unit aims to enable learners to research the structure of the radio industry to develop their understanding of the structure of the wider radio industry, its sub-sectors, business models, sources of funding, key stakeholders, the range of employment opportunities and different job roles. It involves establishing an overview of the market in which radio organisations operate and the impact of changing technologies and media convergence. (4 credits, 30 GLH) RC3 Research audiences for radio The unit aims to enable learners to undertake research on radio audience and to attract them. It involves recognising different station styles, identifying the intended audience for particular radio programming and other audio content and understanding the potential of different distribution platforms. It includes understanding audience figures and market research and knowing where to find such information and how to interpret it. (4 credits, 30 GLH) RC4 Contribute to the creative process in radio The unit aims to enable learners to analyse and demonstrate how to contribute to the creative process in radio. It includes how to think creatively, collaborate with others and overcome obstacles to creativity. (4 credits, 30 GLH) RC5 Originate and develop ideas for radio content The unit aims to enable learners to originate and develop ideas for radio content and apply both creative thinking and an understanding of the context to ideas. It includes understanding station or programme requirements and different genres, and identifying factors which have contributed to past successes or failures. It involves using appropriate research methods, accessing reliable sources of information, and confirming that proposals are achievable with budget limits. (6 credits, 40 GLH) RC6 Undertake research for radio content The unit aims to enable learners to undertake research for radio. It involves having a clear understanding of the purpose of research and how it will be used. It includes using a wide range of sources to collect information, analysing information and an understanding of copyright issues and legal and ethical constraints. (6 credits, 40 GLH)

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RC7 Work to a brief for radio content The unit aims to enable learners to work to a specific brief for required radio content. It involves identifying key aspects of and parameters for the brief and delivering content in line with agreed parameters, working effectively with whoever has commissioned the work. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC8 Pitch ideas for radio content The unit aims to enable learners to pitch ideas for radio content. It includes being clear about the key elements of a pitch and what makes an idea or script distinctive. It also includes, providing all relevant background information and taking into account legal ant copyright restrictions and current broadcasting codes of practice. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC9 Evaluate ideas for radio content The unit aims to enable learners to evaluate ideas for radio content in relation to programme and station requirements. It involved selecting ideas that have the potential to meet these requirements and explaining why some ideas have been selected and other rejected. It also involves determining appropriate treatments for selected ideas. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC10 Write for radio The unit aims to enable learners to write material for radio. It requires varying language, content and style to suit different genres, formats and different audiences. It involves understanding how to write for different purposes. It also involves working to agreed deadlines and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. (6 credits, 40 GLH) RC11 Write for multi-platform use in radio The unit aims to enable learners to write for multi-platform use in radio. It requires varying language, content and style to suit the platform or delivery medium and the target audience. It involves understanding the purpose of text and the platform or medium. It also involves working to agreed deadlines and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. (6 credits, 40 GLH) RC12 Manage audio material The unit aims to enable learners to manage audio material. It involves understanding basic technical principles in order to manage audio material efficiently when recording digital audio files and formats across a range of different computer applications, platforms and media. It includes understanding which file formats to use in specific situations and being able to make choices about transfer methods, compression, file naming and storage. It involves understanding how digital audio files are handled and displayed by work stations and the implications of carrying out specific functions. It requires the implementation of alternative file transfer and resolving technical problems where necessary. (6 credits, 50 GLH)

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RC13 Operate a radio studio The unit aims to enable learners to operate a radio studio effectively. It involves being able to use individual pieces of equipment and co-ordinating their use under pressure. It requires an understanding of the basic principles of studio operation and the ability to adapt to a different configurations, formats and combinations of equipment. (6 credits, 50 GLH) RC14 Record audio on location and in the studio The unit aims to enable learners to record audio on location and in the studio. It includes testing and checking equipment and recording audio from a variety of sources. It involves monitoring and identifying problems with the recording and formulating solutions in relation to any technical problems or changing specifications. It requires a basic understanding of acoustics in order to recognise and record broadcast quality sound. It also involves ensuring that recordings are appropriately named, labelled and stored. (6 credits, 50 GLH) RC15 Edit, process and mix audio The unit aims to enable learners to carry out digital audio editing. It requires an understanding of how to structure the end product, selecting the most appropriate edit points and achieving edits which are technically and artistically satisfactory. It includes mixing audio to ensure that sound sources have the required quality, perspective and dynamic and that transitions are technically accurate. It involves creating a sound mix which achieves the required artistic effect and offering practical solutions if there are problems. (6 credits, 50 GLH) RC20 Assist with radio productions The unit aims to enable learners to assist with radio productions. It is about accessing information for research purposes; dealing with correspondence and other queries; looking after guests and contributors; monitoring the use of resources and materials; organising contracts; and establishing the need for licences, clearances, permissions and performance fees. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC21 Know how to produce speech content for radio The unit aims to enable learners with to produce speech content for radio. It involves identifying what speech content is needed to meet production requirements, explaining how to obtain speech content, and understanding related legal and regulatory issues. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC22 Produce music radio The unit aims to enable learners to produce music radio. It involves deciding what music is required for different types of station or programme, sourcing it and obtaining it. It also involves reviewing and adjusting selections to meet requirements, obtaining the appropriate clearances and permissions and assembling music content in its production order, whilst working within budget. (3 credits, 20 GLH)

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RC23 Produce multi-platform content for radio The unit aims to enable learners to produce multi-platform content for radio. It involves identifying the types of platform available and the target audience. It also involves combining text and audio with other digital assets to deliver an interactive service to audiences, specifying resources and working within agreed budgets and timescales. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC24 Produce radio broadcasts The unit aims to enable learners to produce live radio broadcasts. It involves briefing and directing presenters and contributors, co-ordinating the activities of studio teams and monitoring progress against production plans. It also involves calculating and monitoring timings against running orders for programme items and for whole programmes, ensuring that the sequence of activities is under control. (6 credits, 50 GLH) RC26 Know how to produce station branding, trails and commercials The unit aims to provide learners with appropriate knowledge of key issues relating to the production of station branding, radio trails and commercials. It involves identifying what content is required, explaining key relevant issues and understanding relevant legal and regulatory requirements. (4 credits, 30 GLH) RC28 Use and develop the voice for radio The unit aims to enable learners to use and develop the voice for radio. It involves an understanding of how the human voice works, how to take care of it and how to use it effectively for radio. (3 credits, 20 GLH) RC29 Present a radio programme The unit aims to enable learners to develop knowledge and skills relating to the presentation of a radio programme. It involves understanding the various roles of radio presenters in music and speech radio. It includes understanding and developing relationships with target audiences and requires an awareness of the power, influence and responsibilities of presenters. (6 credits, 40 GLH) RC30 Prepare for and conduct radio interviews The unit aims to enable learners to prepare for and conduct radio interviews. It involves understanding the nature and purpose of various kinds of interview and the work required before each interview starts. It includes identifying appropriate interviewees and checking their details and background facts, planning questions and accurately briefing interviewees and other relevant parties. It also involves carrying out different kinds of interviews under differing conditions using appropriate interviewing styles and techniques. (3 credits, 20 GLH)

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RC31 Comply with the law when working in radio This unit aims to enable learners to develop an understanding of key aspects of UK law that apply to radio content creation and how they affect what can and cannot be done as part of that process. It aims to enable broadcasters to know enough about UK law that they can identify potential breaches in their own work and refer them to legal experts before proceeding. (6 credits, 50 GLH)

RC32 Conduct yourself ethically when working in radio This unit aims to enable learners to develop knowledge about the regulatory framework that governs broadcasting in the UK. It involves knowing and complying with the codes of those bodies responsible for regulating broadcast radio. It also involves knowing the content of employers’ codes of conduct, programme guidelines and complaints procedures which are intended to ensure compliance with the regulatory framework. It also involves learners applying this knowledge to their own radio content and ensuring that it complies with the regulatory framework as outlined. (4 credits, 30 GLH)

Communicating using digital marketing/sales channels The unit aims to familiarise learners with the skills and understanding to communicate to customers in a digital format. It includes an understanding of the available and emerging digital media channels in which to communicate to target audiences and an appreciation of the methods and approaches used to target specific groups. The learner will also develop an insight into planning and managing different campaign types for different audiences and purposes with consideration for costs, scope, impacts and regulatory requirements. The learner will enhance their skills in evaluating and monitoring responses to digital activity and improving and adapting methodologies. (4 credits, 26 GLH)

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Knowledge Element

The knowledge element of an apprenticeship refers to the technical skills and knowledge/understanding of theoretical concepts relating to the occupation or job role, together with knowledge and understanding of the industry and its market. This is usually delivered outside the workplace and supports and enhances the Apprentice’s work based learning The qualifications which cover the knowledge element have been designed to meet the needs of the creative media industries, whilst allowing different packages to be offered by awarding organisations. Apprentices on the Apprenticeship Advanced in a Creative & Digital Media will take one of the following qualification

.Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Creative and Digital Media

The decision as to which qualification (and units) are taken, should be taken by the employer, apprentice, and training provider, based on the needs of the business.

The following lists show the units learners can take in these qualifications – there is a great deal of flexibility. However, please note that the range of units available to learners will depend on the training provider and employer’s facilities, and the provider’s links to awarding organisations. For more details of the unit content, click the links above to view them on the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications.

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Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Creative and Digital Media 20 credits, 120 guided learning hours 2D animation production 2D digital art for computer games 3D animation 3D environments 3D modelling Advertisement production for television Audio production processes and techniques Communication skills for creative media productions Computer game story development Creative media production management Critical approach to creative media products Designing indents for television Digital communication Digital graphics for computer games Digital graphics for print Digital graphics for interactive media Digital video production for interactive media Drawing concept art for computer games DVD menu design and authoring Film studies Flash for computer games Graphic narrative production Interactive media design Media audiences and products Motion graphics and compositing video Music video production Object oriented design for computer games Photography and photographic practice Photographic techniques Pre-production techniques for the creative media industries Print production Radio studies Research for creative media productions Research techniques for the creative media industries Sound for computer games Sound for interactive media Soundtrack production for the moving image Stop motion animation production Television and video studies Understanding the creative media sector Video production Web animation for interactive media

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Transferable Skills These core skills are transferable across sectors and are built into the Apprenticeship to maximise flexibility and choice for employers and apprentices. They include:

� Communication (mandatory) � Application of numbers (mandatory) � ICT (mandatory)

In England, Creative and Media Advanced apprentices must achieve the three Functional Skills, or equivalent Key Skills (running parallel until late 2012) at level 2. Functional Skills are practical skills in English, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Mathematics. It is anticipated they will replace the current Key Skills programme from late 2012. Each element is worth 5 credits, for a total of 15 credits. To complete the apprenticeship, all three Functional Skills must be achieved at level 2. For further information on Transferable Skills and extensive lists of equivalent attainment and grades that can contribute towards the attainment of Transferable Skills please follow the link below to the framework document (Pages 15-17). http://www.skillset.org/qualifications/apprenticeships/apprenticeship_CDM/article_7533_1.asp Personal Learning and Thinking Skills Personal Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS) give learners the opportunity to develop and demonstrate generic learning skills that enable them to progress with learning and prepare for the world of work. PLTS contain 6 groups of skills:

� independent enquirers; � creative thinkers; � reflective learners; � team workers; � self-managers; � effective participants.

PLTS are mandatory elements in any apprenticeship offered in England. These skills are seen as key in the development of the apprentice and must be assessed, signposted and recorded. Employee Rights and Responsibilities Employee Rights and Responsibilities (ERR) are mandatory elements in any apprenticeship. They comprise 9 outcomes which need to be assessed, signposted and recorded, to demonstrate that the apprentice knows and understands the range of employer and employee statutory rights and responsibilities under employment law, health and safety and equality and diversity procedures and documentation for their organisation.

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Assessing PLTS and ERR In the Advanced Apprenticeship in Creative & Digital Media, the PLTS and ERR skills are taught and assessed as part of the Preparing to Work (PW) set of units, and during training provider and employer inductions. Evidence of how the apprentice demonstrates these skills is gathered as part of the overall assessment of the mandatory competence units and Skillset provides mapping templates to assist in this process. These are available from apprenticeships@skillset.org Additional activities e.g. mentoring, coaching, support and guidance Apprentices must receive additional support and guidance on and off the job, to enhance their learning and development and to enrich their apprenticeship experience. Providers and employers are encouraged to deliver these additional activities through innovative, engaging and relevant methods in the workplace

Guided Learning Hours (the amount of time needed to complete the Apprenticeship)

The minimum amount of Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the Apprenticeship is 750 and the average delivery is 15 months. The minimum GLH for the first 12 months of this Apprenticeship is 600. The advanced apprentice is entitled to the remaining 150 GLH in the subsequent three months of delivery and is entitled to a minimum of 280 GLH pro rata for any further 12 months of delivery Levels Level 2: Achievement at level 2 reflects the ability to select and use relevant knowledge, ideas, skills and procedures to complete well-defined tasks and address straightforward problems. It includes taking responsibility for completing tasks and procedures and exercising autonomy and judgement subject to overall direction or guidance Level 3: Achievement at level 3 reflects the ability to identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to complete tasks and address problems that, while well defined, have a measure of complexity. It includes taking responsibility for initiating and completing tasks and procedures as well as exercising autonomy and judgement within limited parameters. It also reflects awareness of different perspectives or approaches within an area of study or work.

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An overview of

Skillset’s Advanced Apprenticeship in

Creative & Digital Media (England)

Leigh Sports StadiumSale WayLeigh WN7 4JY

T: 01942 877 71E: info@themediacollege.co.ukW: www.themediacollege.co.uk