Partnership gives students a head start

Construction skills students at Derby College Group have been boosting their chances of securing a job in the industry thanks to a partnership with a timber and building supplies firm.

Howarth Timber and Building Supplies joined forces with DCG last year to set up an online training Employer Academy.

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This has enabled students across a broad range of disciplines, from brickwork to joinery, to have access to Howarth’s online training academy, which covers the spectrum of the latest product and industry knowledge.

After sitting online tests, the students receive certificates, which they can include in their CV portfolios.

Mandie Stravino, chief executive at DCG, said: “Howarth Timber and Building Supplies is a perfect example of how employers work with us to co-design and co-deliver the curriculum to ensure that young people develop the skills, behaviours and attitudes that employers need.

“This continues to be an amazing opportunity for our students and the online training has been a welcome addition to the students’ virtual study programmes during these difficult times to further boost their chances of finding an apprenticeship or job when they leave college.”