Training & Development Methods (OCR GCSE Business)

On the Job Training

• On the job training takes place while employees are working in their job roles

  • Employees learn skills and knowledge from colleagues while performing their job duties

  • It can involve work shadowing, in-house training sessions or IT-based training programmes

    • E.g. A sous chef at The Ivy Restaurant in York receives on the job training from the Head Chef to learn how to prepare new dishes, use equipment and improve cooking techniques

An Evaluation of On the Job Training

Off the Job Training

• Off the job training takes place away from or outside of the workplace

• It can be in the form of college/university courses, workshops, demonstrations, seminars, conferences or online courses

  • E.g. Teachers attend exam board training days, where they learn how to deliver the syllabus and help students prepare for exams

An Evaluation of Off the Job Training

Staff Development

• Staff development refers to longer-term training programmes that are focused on improving a wide range of employee skills

• Businesses may offer apprenticeships, professional development programmes which provide an opportunity to study for a formal vocational or academic qualification related to their work

Apprenticeships

• Apprenticeships are programmes that combine practical training in a job with study

  • Employees commit to work for a business for an extended period of time, often at a relatively low rate of pay

  • In return, they receive on-the-job training and time allocated to study, usually at a college or university

• In the UK, apprenticeships for young people are often attract government subsidies

An Evaluation of Apprenticeships

Professional development programmes

• Professional development programmes may be offered to staff to further enhance skills and qualifications

• Examples of professional development include:

  • Attending industry-specific conferences and seminars

  • Enrolling on courses to achieve vocational or academic qualifications, such as a degree

  • Membership of professional bodies and engagement with projects or research they undertake

• Offering high-quality opportunities for professional development can be very attractive to applicants for vacancies

• Businesses can also be recognised for their commitment to professional development

  • E.g The Investors in People award recognises businesses that provide outstanding support for their worker's development

• However, delivering high quality professional development can be expensive

  • Staff absent due to training may require cover

  • Courses and other training activities may involve a significant cost

  • Investment in staff development is lost if a staff member chooses to leave a business