Member Article

Constructing a future with Geon Training

A unique training scheme to combat the nationwide shortage of blue-collar workers has been announced by one of the region’s key training organisations. Geon Training based in Gateshead’s Team Valley has a growing £2.2 million national portfolio, including contracts with local colleges and national providers. It specialises in fully funded, bespoke training programmes based around its sectors and continuously works with partners and clients to offer its learners local employment opportunities, as well as CV coaching and careers advice. Their latest programme, and most ambitious to date is its new Build Up Programme which links trainees with real work experience in the construction sector.

The BUILD UP Programme is aimed at 16- to 24-year-olds who are looking to start a career within the construction industry. The six-week programme also includes two weeks of on-the-job training with some of the North’s leading employers including Re:Gen Group, Shaw Construction and HS Scaffolding NE all in partnership with Karbon Homes.

Each delegate will work towards a Level 1 Health and Safety in Construction Environment Certificate and NOCN Level 1 qualification in Construction Skills as well as receiving practical work preparation skills such as bricklaying, painting, scaffolding and groundworks. To add to their readiness for work, they will also receive training in interview and CV techniques, basic maths and English and learn about mindfulness and positive mental health. Managing Director Nadia Scott explains why the programme is different to others.

“Our BUILD UP programme is dedicated to developing individuals, with a real focus on nurturing each candidate’s journey, rather than allowing particular skill sets and trades to dictate the direction of their career path. Now more than ever we recognise the need to learn and thrive in a hybrid environment. Our BUILD UP programme has been designed specifically with this in mind. We enable learners to gain the knowledge, experience and resilience needed to succeed in the constantly evolving but incredibly exciting world of construction. By championing this new approach to learning and development, we’re doing our bit to combat unemployment in the local region and tackling the construction skills shortages head on. We are proud to be pioneering a programme of this kind and calibre, which no other company in the region is delivering.”

As well as training, travel costs, PPE, food while on the course and all other costs associated with qualifications are included in the programme.

Geon also provides start-to-finish recruitment services through to fully flexible on-the-job training in the workplace as well as their bespoke training programmes as Director Trevor Dudgeon explains:

“We know about recruitment and what employers are looking for. Our learners will benefit from inside knowledge, certification and on the job experience allowing them to use it to their advantage. We are fully committed to creating opportunities for every learner who successfully completes the BUILD UP programme. Working with excellent employers across our region who share the same vision and passion ensures this is a tremendous opportunity for any young person who wants to find a new employment role or further their career in a rapidly growing sector.”

Training sessions will take place at Geon’s offices in Newcastle city centre and practical activities will be delivered at the employer’s site. **The Build Up Programme Recruitment Day takes place on Tuesday 13th July between 10am and 2pm at Jury’s Inn, Newcastle. For more information contact training@geonts.co.uk 0191 4661024

Ends Photo Directors Nadia Scott and Trevor Dudgeon (Edge Agency) Media and interviews – Keith@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397951

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Keith Newman .