The first group of students has graduated from the new Sector Based Work Academy at Thanet Earth, near Birchington in Kent.
Five participants were selected for the scheme by the Job Centre Plus in Margate, where the group of jobseekers are being supported back into work.
Taking place at Thanet Earth, over a five-week period, the group spent time with specialist trainers and mentors from Hadlow College. They were also given time with managers at Thanet Earth, who provided a practical slant to the course and who oversaw a work experience element that gave the participants time working in all of the operational areas of the Thanet Earth business.
The programme of learning and on-the-job training was designed specifically to provide new skills, insight and experience for the group and is part of a national scheme called Movement to Work.
Each academy graduate received a full day’s introduction to the HACCP food safety management system, and each passed a food hygiene course. Hadlow College tutors provided sessions on interview skills and preparation of a CV. Throughout the process participants were able to ask questions and apply their learning to a practical situation within the Thanet Earth business.
The ultimate aim was for each academy graduate to leave with greater confidence, with new skills to help them succeed at interview, and with a better understanding of the routine, the expectations and the opportunities that come with an employed role.
Thanet Earth managing director Des Kingsley said: “I’d like to give special thanks to Lesley Gregson, the employability lecturer from Hadlow College. With her support, the confidence of each academy member has increased significantly. One part of the picture is having the right skills for the job, but the ability to communicate that you have the right skills can be a challenge. This academy scheme has helped its five graduates to take a more confident step forward into work.”
No comments yet