Our Information, Advice & Guidance Policy
Policy Aims
The purpose of this policy is to support the delivery of high-quality Careers Education Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG). Our aim is to provide appropriate and impartial information, advice and guidance to potential candidates, current learners, employers, and internal and external stakeholders. It aims to enable individuals to make well-informed and realistic decisions about training and development needs. Our service is consistent with the agreed Swatpro approach to educational support and guidance.
Values
The South West Association of Training Providers believes that all learners are entitled to:
- Opportunities to discuss their individual learning and career needs throughout the learning process.
- Enhanced opportunities for discussion at points of transition such as recruitment, enrolment, induction, throughout training and at the end of the course.
- Access to IAG that meets Matrix standards and upholds the National IAG Board's "Principles of Coherent Delivery".
- Confidential referrals to specialist services where appropriate.
- Access to opportunities for progression.
Young Learners (16–17-Year-Olds)
For learners under the age of 18, Swatpro recognises additional safeguarding responsibilities. IAG for younger learners includes:
- Involvement of parents/guardians where appropriate
- Signposting to youth-specific progression options (e.g., T Levels, further apprenticeships)
- Support with Raising the Participation Age (RPA) requirements
- Referrals to external support services when necessary
Careers Education
Swatpro’s careers education programme is structured around the national Gatsby Benchmarks, ensuring every learner receives high-quality, impartial and inclusive careers support.
- A Stable Careers Programme – A planned and sequenced careers education programme is in place for all learners.
- Learning from Career and Labour Market Information (LMI) – Using current labour-market information to support informed career choices.
- Addressing the Needs of Each Learner – Careers guidance is inclusive and personalised, supporting equality of opportunity and progression for all.
- Linking Curriculum Learning to Careers – Tutors and trainers embed employability and career relevance within teaching, learning and assessment.
- Encounters with Employers and Employees – Learners benefit from meaningful engagement with employers through visits, talks, projects and mentoring.
- Experiences of Workplaces – Every learner has access to workplace experiences that strengthen their understanding of the world of work.
- Encounters with Further and Higher Education – Learners explore future pathways through contact with further and higher education providers.
- Personal Guidance – All learners have access to one-to-one, impartial guidance with professionals.
Through this stable framework, Swatpro ensures that every learner receives consistent, impartial and meaningful career guidance throughout their learning experience.
Digital Access
Learners can access IAG remotely through email, video conferencing, and the Swatpro Learner Portal. They are signposted to trusted online platforms such as the National Careers Service, UCAS, and LMI for All.
AI and Emerging Technologies
Learners will be supported to understand how automation and AI are influencing the workforce and future career opportunities.
Scope
This policy applies to all IAG delivered by Swatpro, whether online or face-to-face, and whether provided to individuals or groups. It covers services delivered to prospective candidates, learners, employers, and other stakeholders throughout the learner journey.
Definitions
- Information: Data shared through various media (e.g., websites, booklets) that informs learner choices.
- Advice: Personalised guidance to help individuals interpret information, understand options, and identify needs.
- Guidance: Support to help individuals reflect on goals, overcome barriers, and make informed life and career choices.
Policy Objectives
Swatpro aims to:
- Provide high-quality, timely, and accessible IAG
- Deliver impartial and confidential advice suited to individual needs
- Use staff who are trained and knowledgeable
- Provide signposting to appropriate specialist agencies
- Ensure equality of opportunity
- Regularly review and evaluate the IAG service for continuous improvement
Referral Policy
Swatpro staff ensure referrals to external agencies are appropriate and in line with data protection, safeguarding, confidentiality, and equality policies. Learners will be informed clearly about any referrals made.
Quality Assurance & Evaluation
IAG quality is assured through:
- Feedback from learners, employers, and partners
- Analysis of key data (retention, achievement, progression)
- Inclusion in the Quality Improvement Plan and Self-Assessment Report
- Observation and monitoring by the Quality Manager
Learner Journey and IAG Service
- Recruitment: Website info, suitability assessments, referral to other agencies if needed
- Initial Assessment: Skills assessment, guidance on course options, sign-up
- Induction: Programme IAG, digital access, support links
- Teaching & Review: Eight to twelve week reviews, action plans, feedback loops, sharing best practice, early support for additional needs
- Achievement & Progression: Discussions on next steps, data analysis to improve learner outcomes
Staff Training
Staff involved in IAG delivery receive regular CPD to ensure they provide up-to-date and relevant advice.
Safeguarding
Any concerns arising through IAG sessions are referred to the Designated Safeguarding Lead in line with Swatpro's safeguarding procedures.
Learner Voice
Learners are invited to shape IAG services through feedback surveys, forums, and review meetings.