Simian helps to launch pre-employment training scheme

We’re delighted to announce that Simian has launched a brand-new pre-employment training scheme (PETS) for those currently not in employment, which aims to increase the number of opportunities within the scaffolding industry and provide a positive impact for the current scaffolding industry skills shortage

Working in partnership with the Department of Work and Pensions, Construction Wales Innovation Centre, Coleg Cambria, Martin Scaffolding Services, 4c Access UK Ltd and the Arctic Scaffolding Company Ltd, our 10-day pilot scheme will include those looking to return to work, seeking a career change or to enhance their existing skills.

The first stage of our scheme will see one of Simian’s expert consultants visit a job centre to discuss in length a career in scaffolding and the opportunities it could bring. Delegates for the scheme will currently be unemployed, and, following our visit to the job centre, interested candidates will be invited to join us on our course.

During the course, delegates will undergo a number of training qualifications including, level one awards in work preparation, mental health awareness and well-being, Simian’s own aluminium towers course and CISRS COTS training. Following this they will attend a 4-day work placement with a local scaffolding contractor, providing them with on-site experience that will allow them to put into practice what they have learnt during their training.

At the end of the training, delegates will be provided with feedback following a comprehensive review and will receive expert advice on the next steps they can take for a career in scaffolding.

Speaking of the scheme, Business Development Manager here at Simian, Simon O’Donnell said, “We regularly hear about the skills shortages facing our industry and the recruitment issues faced by employers so we thought we could step in and help.

By partnering with the jobcentre, local colleges and scaffolding employers, we are bringing all of the stakeholders together. This helps delegates gain a recognised CISRS qualification, which will hopefully give them the opportunity for employment and progression with the scaffolding industry.

The qualification will help to obtain the generic and transferable skills needed to perform with confidence in a range of workplaces in the sector. It will also provide a range of employability skills needed for a career in scaffolding.”

With the pilot course running at the end of October, it was found to be a great success, with candidates eager to learn the required skills that they can subsequently transfer into their future employment.

Keep up to date with our scheme as it develops by following Simian on Twitter and Facebook.