Appeal to employers to offer on-the-job training

WORK with us!

That's the message from the Grimsby Institute, which is appealing to employers to work with the college in preparation for changes that require them to offer work experience.

The Government has put a new emphasis on work experience for 16 to 19-year-olds and as of September, schools and colleges will be expected to offer work-based training.

So Grimsby Institute is looking for more local businesses to help local students get the skills they need for employment.

And it could make all the difference, according to Darren Mayne, owner of Mayne Gas Heating Limited, who recently took on plumbing and heating student Jack Lofts for a month's placement.

Mr Mayne trains his own engineers through Grimsby Institute and hopes to offer Jack a position in the future – and he knows first hand what on-the-job training means to an employer.

He said: "Dealing with pipes and tools, as you do in college, is totally different to dealing with people in their homes, catering to their needs and peculiarities.

"It requires a totally different set of skills which are an essential part of any job. I'm glad to be working with the college so we can give something back to the community we work in – but it's also good for us to work with someone young, energetic and enthusiastic."

Third year plumbing student Jack, 19, said: "I've learnt so much while I've been here – it really is a world away from college and I know it will help me get a job in the end."

Tutor Adrian Bradley said: "We've had more than ten employers get involved already and two people have actually been taken on as a direct result of the placement."

Offering more work experience placements is just one of the things Grimsby Institute is doing to make their courses more suited to the needs of employers.

The college is also appealing for Business Professors – people involved in companies across a number of industries – that can give feedback on their courses.

Communications officer Stuart Owen said: "Whether it is giving us advice on whether what we are teaching is right for the job or coming in to speak to students, young people could really benefit from that expertise."

Call Stuart on 01472 311222 if you could offer a placement or become a Business Professor.