Work to get under way on training extension (From Gazette & Herald)

Work to get under way on training extension

Work will commence in May on a new extension block to the Derwent Training Association premises in Malton.

The building work will should be completed by September in time for the new entry of advanced engineering apprentices.

Currently some 74 students study at courses ranging through computer controlled machining, computer aided design, pneumatics and welding.

The training is for employed apprentices and in working with their employers develops their skills and knowledge to achieve the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship Award.

For the most able students, this opens the way to take a foundation degree, which in turn counts towards some elements of a university degree course. In addition, a range of tailor-made short courses are developed to enable companies to lift the performance levels of their existing workforce.

The development project is funded through both the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) North Yorkshire and the regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

The project funding will be managed through LSC North Yorkshire, within the Sub Regional Action Plan 2003/6 Skills Development for York and North Yorkshire, as part of the commitment to support high-growth companies.

The extra facilities and training courses will provide a substantial boost to the engineering companies in this region.

Recent studies have confirmed the importance of the engineering sector to the future of North Yorkshire. Some 13 per cent of the local workforce is engaged in this cluster and it is essential that the industry is able to recruit sufficient skilled and motivated people to be in a position to compete in the rapidly developing world marketplace.

David Sanderson, one of the leaders, said: "By involving local companies in the development of the engineering training courses we are working hard to confirm Derwent Training at the centre of engineering training in North Yorkshire.

''We intend that local schools and the community will also benefit in having access to cutting-edge equipment and safe learning facilities."

Updated: 15:45 Wednesday, April 12, 2006