Important update regarding the E-PPRENTICE initiative
In 2009 the Industry Training Authority (ITA) initiated a flexible trades training initiative called E-PPRENTICE. This initiative was designed to provide a flexible on -line option for students taking the technical portions of trades training programs. The initial programs funded under E-PPRENTICE included Professional Cook 1 and Welder C, as well components of Automotive Technician that had been previously funded by both ITA and BCcampus.
Funding for the initiative came from the BC-Canada Labour Market Agreement (LMA) and further multi-year funding from the federal Pan-Canadian Innovation Initiative had been negotiated dependent on the continued availability of the LMA funds.
Earlier this month, the ITA learned that additional E-PPRENTICE programs will not be eligible for funding under the BC-Canada Labour Market Agreement (LMA).
As a result, the ITA has decided to suspend future development of the E-PPRENTICE initiative until alternate funding sources can be secured. Work underway on the Welder C and Professional Cook Level 1 programs will be completed and all contractual obligations will be met. In addition, the ITA is committed to funding completion of development of e-learning tools for Professional Cook Levels 2 and 3.
ITA will reconvene the steering committee for E-PPRENTICE and engage directly with Industry Training Organizations (ITOs), institutions and designated training providers to update the business plan for E-PPRENTICE based on current information and congruent with funding options.
ITA maintains an ongoing commitment to flexible trades training - including e-learning. The measures that have been announced are short-term in nature and will provide the opportunity for the ITA, training providers, private sector partners, BC Campus and the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development to revitalize the E-PPRENTICE business model, develop a next steps strategy and secure the necessary resources to continue this innovative and important program.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact ITA: 778-328-8700
Update on E-PPRENTICE from BCcampus
In March 2010, the Industry Training Authority of BC (ITA) informed post-secondary institutions, BCcampus and the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development of its intention to suspend further development of the E-PPRENTICE initiative. ITA also informed BCcampus, the host organization for E-PPRENTICE, of its decision to suspend development at that time.
As host organization, BCcampus was charged with leading and managing the initiative on behalf of ITA from late 2008 to May 31, 2010. Though BCcampus will not be formally involved with the ITA E-PPRENTICE initiative as host organization effective June 1, 2010, BCcampus remains supportive of flexible learning in the trades and the E-PPRENTICE initiative and may continue work in those areas that are congruent with BCcampus strategic directions.
BCcampus appreciates the opportunity to work with the BC trades training system and its many stakeholders and look forward to the completion of development of the E-PPRENTICE projects currently underway, and the possibility of a revitalized flexible learning strategy.
Welcome to the E-PPRENTICE website!
British Columbia's E-PPRENTICE program is a new, more flexible way for apprentices to complete their technical training. E-PPRENTICE programs are provincial flexible learning options and are now available, or will soon be available, for several high-volume Red Seal trades. E-PPRENTICE program options allow apprentices to access technical training through e-learning, reducing time away from their communities and employers. If you'd like to get involved in E-PPRENTICE, either as a student, training provider, employer or industry representative, check out our site.
If you are a current or prospective apprentice - you'll find information on all the available E-PPRENTICE programs, information to determine if these programs are for you, schedules of course availability to get you started, and links to registration at participating post-secondary institutions.
If you are an employer, industry representative or training provider - you'll find information on the benefits of an E-PPRENTICE program for you and your apprentices, how you can get involved, an overview of the E-PPRENTICE development process and answers to your questions through our FAQs.
E-PPRENTICE is an initiative sponsored by the Industry Training Authority (ITA), funded by the BC-Canada Labour Market Agreement (LMA) which supports investment in labour market programs. The funding will be used to develop innovative, flexible delivery models - often including interactive media and e-learning components - that encourage the participation of LMA eligible clients for existing trades programs. BCcampus is responsible for leading and coordinating the E-PPRENTICE initiative on behalf of the ITA. BCcampus is a collaborative online learning agency that supports BC's public post-secondary institutions in meeting their students' learning needs by identifying, developing, implementing and promoting information and communications technologies (ICTs) that benefit the entire post-secondary system.
Currently, E-PPRENTICE delivery options for Automotive Service Technician Levels 1 to 3 are offered, with courses for Professional Cook 1, Automotive Collision Repair, Automotive Service Technician Level 4, and Welder Level C coming on stream in early in 2010. Training for each of these trades is offered through a BC public post-secondary institution or ITA designated training provider. Over the next few months new trades will be added to this list so be sure to watch this site for updates.
Funding support may be available for many students participating in E-PPRENTICE, either through the Labour Market Agreement, or various grants and bursaries. To find out if you are LMA eligible or able to access a grant or bursary for your studies go to our Apprentice Funding and Grants page.
