“These free courses are a great opportunity for people from all backgrounds and incomes to learn the skills to get into work,” said 33-year-old Amy Johnson who signed up for the free groundworks and construction plant operations training – part of the college’s sector-based work academy programme (SWAP) – to improve her current qualifications and future employment prospects.
Amy, who is on phase two of the programme and learning how to operate site plant machinery, added: “I’ve learnt more about the construction industry and how to work as part of a team, and have met some good people who have treated me with respect and made me feel as though I belong.
“The tutors have supported me throughout the training and helped me to get my confidence back and what I’ve learnt will increase my chances of getting work and having a future career in the industry.
“I like the idea of having a guaranteed interview at the end of the course and being supported in finding a job so that I can pursue the career I’ve always wanted to be involved in.”
After successfully completing Phase 2, participants receive a red CPS card allowing them to operate the plant machine that they have learnt to use on-site.
