Frequently Asked Questions for ACRS
About The Programme
1. What is the Retail Apprenticeship Programme?
The Retail Apprenticeship Programme is a programme that allows individuals to undergo structured on-the-job training with the sponsoring companies while pursuing the nationally recognised qualification under the Retail Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ). This initiative aims to help interested individuals, mid-career workers, unemployed or those who wish to switch careers, be equipped with the right skills, attitude, and working experience to enhance their employability in the retail industry.
2. Who is eligible to participate in the programme?
To be eligible for the programme, applicants must:
- Be Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident;
- Have GCE ‘N’ / ‘O” level Pass in English; or
- Have a minimum ESS Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (WPLN) Level 4; and
- Have at least 1 year working experience, preferably at the supervisory level.
Training Course Details
3. What is the programme objective?
- Provide a training pathway to acquire the skills and knowledge to make career switch to become retail supervisors
- Facilitate job placement and retention
4. What is the course duration?
Course duration is for a period of 5 months.
5. What is the course content?
At the end of the Advanced Certificate programme, trainees will acquire the relevant retail skills and knowledge such as supervise retail operations or roster staff. For course details, please refer to
www.sirs.edu.sg or
www.wda.gov.sg.
6. Upon completion of the training, what qualification will trainees obtain?
Trainees are required to complete the training at SIRS and with the sponsoring company; as well as all required assessments over the 5 month period. Upon successful completion, trainees will graduate with a WSQ Advanced Certificate in Retail Supervision.
7. Where is the training venue?
Classroom training will be conducted at the Singapore Institute of Retail Studies (SIRS). Structured on-the-job training will be conducted by the sponsoring companies.
8. When is the commencement of the Diploma?
The Advanced Certificate in Retail Supervision will commence on 4 May 2009.
Application and Cost of Programme
9. How do I apply for the programme?
Interested applicants can contact SIRS at 6222 7477 or visit their website at www.sirs.edu.sg to apply for the programme. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews with the participating companies within 2 weeks.
10. How much is the course fee?
After WDA funding, the nett course fee payable is $144.45 (incl. GST) per trainee and will be borne by the sponsoring companies.
11. Is there any allowance available?
Yes. Trainees will receive a monthly training stipend in accordance to sponsoring companies’ existing salary structure during the training period. WDA will co-fund 50% of the stipend.
12. Is there any bond under the Professional Conversation Programme?
Yes. Trainees will be required to serve a bond period of 5 months with their sponsoring companies upon completion of training.
13. Will trainees be required to pay liquidated damages for breaking the bond?
Yes. Trainees are required to pay liquidated damages including training stipend and full course fee to the sponsoring companies if they break the bond. Trainees are advised to read the training deed thoroughly and seek clarification from the sponsoring companies before acceptance.