Julian Kirkham, one of SWG’s directors, said: “SWG has a long-standing commitment to the training and development of our existing and new employees and subcontractors and we have worked with NPTC Group of Colleges to support this training for nearly 16 years.
“We recognise and understand the needs of the local area and the requirement to support and educate youngsters on the opportunities available to them within the locality to become the workforce of the future.
“Recently we have done a lot of work with the college, working alongside Karen we have accessed PLA funding which has enabled us to put a plan in place to our team of employees across all areas of the business.
“They have trained in a range of areas which include 18th Edition Electrical Wiring Regulations, Inspection and Testing, Non- Domestic Energy Assessor, Fire Door Installation Awareness, and Mental Health First Aid Training. They in turn have been proactive in sharing their skills and knowledge within the wider business and education communities.”
NPTC Group of Colleges, Business Engagement Advisor for North Powys Karen Harris-Vernon, said: “SWG has shown inspiring leadership and has also been involved in supporting both our North Powys Employers Forum and more recently, our ground-breaking Employer In Residence programme in Newtown college.
“The group has also set up a Construction Academy with Llanfyllin High School and worked with them to develop a GCSE in Construction where SWG staff support the practical side of the qualification.
“SWG is always keen to champion women in the sector. This approach has also led to other activities in the school with talks and visits around subjects like finance.
“The idea has been applauded across Mid Wales and Jacqui Gough has been happy to meet with other schools and employers to explain how it works. The activities have created a real buzz which is infectious and has acted as a catalyst for others to look at what they can do working in partnership with the college, schools, stakeholders and their communities.
“When the Construction qualifications were changing and NPTC hosted meetings with CITB and City and Guilds, SWG were there providing the employer perspective. I look forward to continuing to work with SWG, building our already positive and productive relationship into the future.”
