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Category: APPRENTICESHIPS news

Posted on by r.donnelly
Don Burns, People 1st Construction Centre Manager ( second from left) with Industry leaders across Northern Ireland

The construction industry in the United Kingdom and Ireland has always been a powerhouse of economic growth and development. However, in recent years, it has faced a unique set of challenges when it comes to attracting and retaining young, fresh talent. With an ageing workforce and a growing demand for skilled professionals, the construction sector must adapt to ensure a sustainable and vibrant future.

How prepared is Northern Ireland’s construction industry to meet the ambitions of 2050 and beyond?

That was one of the main questions posed at a recent roundtable discussion at the Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITBNI) and one that our Centre Manager for Construction Don Burns, was on hand to answer, exploring the challenges faced by the industry in getting young talent through the door and, more importantly, keeping them engaged and motivated to stay.

“In my experience, the challenge is more nuanced and centres more on retaining young people in the industry rather than that initial attraction. The attraction exists. A major government arm’s length body recently had over 480 applications to a call for six electrician apprenticeships. However, when we get young people into the industry, it can take between three to five years for them to qualify and earn an attractive wage. The reality is that in that timeframe, other industries and sectors can appear more appealing. If we want to have an industry that can deliver on future challenges, we need to improve the attractiveness of not only entering the industry, but the long-term benefits of staying there. ” Don Burns Centre Manager, People 1st Construction Training Academy
A heating engineer installing underfloor heating system
A heating engineer installing underfloor heating system

What other challenges do we face when trying to attract fresh talent to the Construction industry across Northern Ireland?

  • Perceptions and Stereotypes:
  • One of the primary challenges in attracting young talent to the construction industry is the negative perception that often surrounds it. Many young people still hold outdated stereotypes of construction work as physically demanding, low-paying, and lacking in opportunities for career growth. Changing these perceptions is crucial to drawing in fresh faces.
  • Lack of Awareness:
  • Many young individuals may not even consider construction as a viable career option due to a lack of awareness about the diverse and rewarding roles within the industry. Promoting construction careers through educational institutions and outreach programs is essential.
  • Skills Gap:
  • While the industry is keen to embrace new talent, there is often a disconnect between the skills required and those possessed by young job seekers. Bridging this skills gap through training and apprenticeship programs is vital.
  • Safety Concerns:
  • Safety is a paramount concern in the construction sector, and young workers may be hesitant to enter an industry with perceived higher risks. Ensuring stringent safety measures and offering comprehensive training can address this concern.
  • Career Progression:
  • Young professionals seek opportunities for career advancement and development. The construction industry must showcase clear pathways for growth, from entry-level positions to senior management roles.
  • Work-Life Balance:
  • Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is increasingly important to the younger generation. Construction companies need to consider flexible work arrangements and other benefits to accommodate this need.
  • Technological Adaptation:
  • The construction industry is rapidly evolving with the integration of advanced technologies like BIM, drones, and AI. Embracing these innovations can make the industry more appealing to tech-savvy young talent.
  • Mentorship and Support:
  • Creating mentorship programs and providing ongoing support to young workers can significantly boost retention rates. Offering guidance and constructive feedback helps them feel valued and motivated.
A construction site safety inspector.
A construction site safety inspector.

People 1st is a major contract holder locally in Northern Ireland for Construction training at all levels, from school leavers through to Level 4 Site Supervisors.

We work with a range of construction specialists to get staff certified and qualified in joinery, bricklaying and roofing at our custom-built training facility in CITBNI headquarters at Crumlin. We have a team of talented tutors, and Don the Centre Manager and his team of support staff, there to assist each student in achieving their goals- whether you are new to the sector and wanting to achieve a Level 1 City and Guilds qualification or whether you are an experienced site supervisor, needing their Level 3 or Level 4 qualification to renew their CSR Gold Card. We cater for a range of levels and expertise and our team is always on hand and ready to create a bespoke training package that suits your company’s needs, so reach out to Don and the team at our CITBNI Training Academy on 028 9030 3982 or email Don at [email protected]. You can also find out more about our construction qualifications here:

https://people-1st.co.uk/qualification-categories/construction-building-services/

To read more about the round table discussion please find the link to the full article below:
https://www.agendani.com/building-a-skilled-and-competent-construction-industry/

What next for new talent in the construction industry locally?

Attracting and retaining young talent is crucial for the long-term sustainability and growth of the UK construction industry. By addressing the challenges of perception, skills development, safety, career progression, work-life balance, technological adaptation, and mentorship, the construction sector can create an environment that is not only appealing to young professionals but also fosters their growth and commitment. With concerted efforts, the industry can build a brighter future that benefits both the newcomers and the construction landscape as a whole.

Posted on by r.donnelly

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a valuable pathway to acquiring new skills, advancing one’s career, and boosting employability. Traditionally, these programs were often associated with younger individuals aged 16-24, looking to kickstart their professional journey. However, times have changed, and the doors to apprenticeships have swung open for individuals of all ages. The Department for the Economy’s ApprenticeshipsNI programme is leading the way, embracing a diverse pool of applicants. 

Would you like to work in Health and Social Care?
We can help you get started onto a new career path

Expanding Horizons: No Age Criteria

Gone are the days when apprenticeships were exclusively for school leavers or young adults. Now, there is no age limit to who can benefit from these invaluable programs. Whether you’re in your twenties or your fifties, if you’re eager to learn, develop new skills, and enhance your career prospects, apprenticeships are open to you. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone has a chance to grow professionally, regardless of their age.

Have you always wanted to be a hairdresser?
No matter your age, as open to all!

Our Areas of Specialisation

At People 1st, a proud provider of the Apprenticeships NI programme under the Department for the Economy, we offer a wide range of apprenticeship opportunities in ten specialised areas. These areas cover various industries, catering to a diverse set of interests and career aspirations. Here are the ten areas we specialise in:

  • Health and Social Care
  • Hair, Barbering and Beauty
  • Transport and Distribution
  • Hospitality and Catering
  • Business Administration and IT
  • Children’s Care Learning and Development
  • Construction and Building Services
  • Retail and Customer Care
  • Team Leading and Management
  • Finance
Are you sociable and love the public..How about a retail apprenticeship!
Start on path that can take your career to new heights!

Diving Deeper into Apprenticeships

Now that you’re aware of the diverse fields we cater to, let’s delve into what an apprenticeship entails and why it’s a fantastic opportunity for individuals of all ages:

  • Hands-on Learning: Apprenticeships are characterised by learning on the job. This means you gain practical experience and skills directly related to your chosen field.
  • Earn While You Learn: One of the key advantages of apprenticeships is that you earn a wage while you’re training. This can help alleviate financial pressures while you pursue your qualification.
  • Industry-Recognised Qualifications: Successful completion of an apprenticeship often results in industry-recognised qualifications, such as NVQs, which can significantly boost your career prospects.
  • Mentorship and Support: You’ll have the opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals who can guide and mentor you throughout your apprenticeship journey.
  • Career Progression: Apprenticeships can lead to fulfilling, long-term careers. Many individuals who start as apprentices go on to become leaders in their respective fields.
  • Adaptability: Regardless of your prior experience or age, apprenticeships can be tailored to suit your needs and learning pace.
Would you love to support those in your local community

How to start an Apprenticeship with People 1st

If you’re interested in embarking on an apprenticeship journey, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated team. Our experts can guide you through the application process, answer your questions, and help you select the apprenticeship program that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Whether you’re looking to enhance your current career or make a fresh start, there’s an apprenticeship opportunity waiting for you. Find out further information here and who to contact in your sector:

https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/apprenticeships-ni/

Apprenticeships are no longer reserved for the young; they are a universal path to skill development, career advancement, and personal growth. As a provider for the Department for the Economy’s Apprenticeships NI programme, we are proud to offer these opportunities to individuals of all ages. So, if you’re ready to take the next step in your professional journey, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. Your dream career could be just an apprenticeship away.

Please find the Department for the Economy’s press release announcing the All Age Apprenticeships below:

https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/news/all-age-apprenticeships-now-available-potential-create-1700-training-opportunities-year

The Department for Economy announcing the All Age Apprenticships with two apprentices holding an Northern IreIand map cut out that says 'All Age apprentices on it. Surrounded by a manager and a representative from the Department.
The Department for Economy NI announced All Age Apprenticeships today across Northern Ireland


Posted on by r.donnelly

Would you like to find out more about A-levels versus Vocational Training : then read on to unlock your personal pathway to success.

As you stand at the crossroads of your educational journey, the choice between vocational training and A-levels or maybe Uni after that might seem like a daunting decision. Fear not, for we are here to shed light on the advantages of vocational training and how it can be a powerful alternative to the traditional academic route.

tA-Levels versus Vocational Training... trainers standing at a crossroad before deciding what to do with your path after GCSEs are over
big choices lie ahead after you finish school

What should you choose- A-Levels versus Vocational Training?

**1. Tailored Learning Experience:

Vocational training focuses on practical skills directly relevant to your chosen career. Unlike A-level or University programs that often include a mix of general education courses, vocational training hones in on what matters most for your profession. You’ll acquire hands-on expertise that prepares you for the job market from day one.

**2. Faster Entry into the Workforce:

While A-level and University programs can span several years, vocational training is often shorter in duration. This means you can get a head start on your career without spending as much time in the classroom. You’ll be ready to step into your profession sooner, earning while you learn after a few short years.

**3. Earn While You Learn:

Speaking of earning, vocational training often comes with the unique advantage of receiving a training allowance. You’ll gain practical skills, on-the-job experience, and financial empowerment all at once – a win-win scenario that can make a big difference in the long run.

**4. Real-World Experience:

Vocational training immerses you in real-world scenarios that mimic your future job environment. This practical exposure not only builds confidence but also equips you with insights and skills that resonate with employers.

**5. Less Student Debt:

The financial burden of university fees and student loans can be overwhelming. Vocational training is typically more affordable, and in some cases, you might even get paid to learn- like with People 1st where you earn £40 a week on our school leavers courses. Start your career on the right foot without the weight of student debt holding you back.

**6. Industry Connections:

Through vocational training, you’ll have opportunities to network and connect with industry professionals. These connections can provide insights, mentorship, and potential job leads, giving you a head start in your career.

**7. Career-Focused Curriculum:

Vocational training programs are designed with your future career in mind. The curriculum is laser-focused on developing the skills demanded by employers, ensuring you’re well-prepared to excel in your chosen field.

**8. High Demand for Practical Skills:

Many industries prioritise practical skills and experience over academic qualifications. Vocational training directly addresses these demands, making you a more attractive candidate in competitive job markets.

**9. Pathway to Further Education:

Should you decide to pursue higher education later, vocational training can serve as a strong foundation. Your practical skills and experience can provide you with a unique perspective and enhance your academic pursuits.

Take the first step text in choosing A-levels versus vocational training and move forward with your future today!
We can help you decide what to do next, and talk you over our range of courses

Ultimately, the choice between vocational training and A-Levels then University depends on your aspirations and career goals. Both paths have their merits, but vocational training offers a dynamic and pragmatic approach that’s proving to be a game-changer for countless individuals.

At People 1st, we’re dedicated to helping you unlock your potential through vocational training. Explore our diverse range of vocational areas through an Apprenticeship or via our post-GCSE school-leavers course ‘Skills for Life and Work’ and embark on a journey that aligns with your dreams and aspirations. Our team in your nearest branch will be happy to chat to you about all the options and help you find a path that suits YOU best!!!
👉🏼 Find your nearest People 1st branch here:
https://people-1st.co.uk/locations/

👉🏼Learn more about an Apprenticeship here:

https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/apprenticeships-ni/

👉🏼Find out more about our post-GCSE school leavers course here:
https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/skills-for-life-and-work-2/

You can also find further information about vocational training on the NI Direct website:

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/vocational-qualifications

#VocationalTraining #ChooseYourPath #CareerSuccess #YourFutureAwaits

Whether you choose A Levels versus Vocational Training..there are options out there for all students and we are here to help!
Call in to see the team in your nearest branch, we are ready to help!!
Posted on by r.donnelly

How our talented Joinery student Sé found success with the Apprenticeships NI.

People 1st apprentice Sé and his employer Seamus from Keenwood Joinery

Meet, Sé McCashin, (pronounced Shay) a talented People 1st joinery apprentice from Belfast, who joined our Construction Training Academy a year ago to study for his Level 2 Diploma and now his Level 2 NVQ apprenticeship. A past pupil of De La Salle College in Belfast, Sé knew that he wanted to learn a trade and after having studied Bench Joinery for GCSE, and although it took some persuading his parents agreed to let Sé attend People 1st, to go down the vocational route and train in the trade of joinery. As coming from a background where siblings were working in professions such as teaching, it was a challenge to get his family onboard with his dream to be a joiner, but Sé was determined to push himself and give it a go!

Starting with the Apprenticeships programme!

After joining People 1st, it became clear quite early in our journey with Sé that he had the skills and the focus and determination to go far. He listened, took instruction well and was very keen to progress and our joinery tutor Dean and Construction Training Academy manager Don, knew that he had the drive and ambition to become a great joiner. Incidentally our joinery tutor Dean, was also an apprentice with Keenwood so this almost is coming around full circle with Dean also teaching Sé weekly alongside the work at Keenwood. 

That is a great thing about an apprenticeship as it is a work based programme where the apprentices spends the majority of their time with the employer to learn ‘on-the-job’. As part of Sé’s apprenticeship for example, he comes one day a week to train with People 1st in our hands on Construction Training Academy in Crumlin, and the rest of week Sé spends with his employer Keenwood Joinery, a specialist local joinery contractor, that specialises in high end joinery projects for a range of high profile clients across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. Find out more here about our training and Apprenticeships: https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/apprenticeships-ni/

Sé working on site at the new School of Management Construction Project in Stranmillis, Belfast

This current project showcases these high end skills perfectly as Sé, alongside the Keenwood team, are currently working on a range of bespoke joinery finishes within the custom built Queens University Management School- part of the Riddell Hall complex in Belfast. QUB Management School is one of the top business schools in the UK and Ireland and prides itself on offering a world-class range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in Accounting, Economics, Finance and Management. The proposed building will extend and enhance the Riddel Hall campus and contribute to the on-going success of the Queen’s Management School located at the site. The expansion of the School will ensure that it is fit to serve the changing educational needs of a rapidly growing postgraduate community, who will prove invaluable to the progress of the Northern Ireland economy.

This project is being undertaken by established and respected local building contractors Felix O’Hare and as part of the internal finishing, there is a lot of beautiful woodwork and panelling, which the Keenwood team are responsible for. Director of Keenwood Joinery Seamus Keenan is delighted to being working on such a prestigious and landmark project in Belfast, which will showcase the talents of their team greatly and aligns with current project standards from the company on display on their website https://keenwood.net/

An artists view of the impressive facade of the newly constructed School of Management, part of Queens University Belfast

As part of this apprenticeship Sé has early starts on site, just off Stranmillis village at 7am sharp to get going for the days work ahead and he is always prompt and on-time which is a great thing for any employer to see “ as it shows he is organised, has a great work ethic and lets us know that he is taking his apprenticeship and the opportunity that it brings seriously” says Seamus. “ We are really delighted with the progress the Sé is making and he has fast become a valued member of the Keenwood team “. What sort of things would Sé been working on during a typical week at Keenwood joinery- he can cut out and fit complex ironmongery, he can set door frames and hang doors, he can cut and fit complex wall panelling, as well as do 1st fix stud work and set out, cut and fit decking along with soft wood and hard wood trims. Sé is more than capable to read and understand construction drawings and complete complex items of work. 

How to get the most out of your joinery apprentice experience:

Sé too understands the benefits that working in a talented team like Keenwood brings his skills too – as with a workforce comprised of highly skilled craftsmen, they are at the top of their game and Sé is able to learn so many key techniques- “ the team are amazing and they always take the time to show me things properly, they make time to show me how to do it the right way from the start and this has really helped my skills come on greatly, they have been very welcoming since i joined Keenwood and I enjoy picking up new things from them every day on site” 

Ray Sloan, a master craftsman and one of the experienced members of Keenwood has been great at showing Sé the technical skills of the trade and this has helped Sé progress so much on site as Seamus, Ray and the team know that everything they put into Sé’s development is returned ten-fold “ having an apprentice is an investment and it does take time to teach them and interact and bring them along but with Sé’s approach to work and his pleasant,  ‘can-do’ attitude, he really is every employers dream apprentice. I would take another 10 apprentices on if they were like Sé”  explains Seamus, which really is a testament to the standard of work and also importantly the positive attitude that Sé brings to site each day.

We were able to visit the site today and see the Keenwood team at work behind the scenes and be able to see the incredible  business school project in the flesh. It really has some beautiful architectural features, which the lovely wood accentuates perfectly, and it is really going to be a stunning project once it is completed. 

What lies next for Sé? Well Seamus is really keen for Sé to progress even further onto a Level Three NVQ qualification next with People 1st and this may even open up more projects for Sé over in London, as Keenwood regularly work  across the water on larger corporate projects, via their London office in the bustling hub of the big city.  Sé was also nominated for an Apprentice of the Year in the 2023 Awards and we will have to wait to next month to see if he is successful at that!! Whether he wins it or not, Seamus is convinced he is one of the best, and at only 18 years of age, as well as being the youngest on site, he is one of the best apprentices to pass through the Keenwood doors “ In my 45 years of construction experience and having tried well in excess of 100 apprentices, I can honestly say that Sé is the most accomplished of them all. He is intelligent, reliable, hardworking, willing to learn, capable beyond his years, good hands and understands the construction process. Sé is now a key member of our team and without a doubt will become a master craftsman.”

This is high praise indeed coming from a successful entrepreneur in the construction sector, such as Seamus, and it is clear that Sé has a really bright future ahead of him-  through the apprenticeships programme, Se’s investment in himself and his learning, the investment by the Keenwood team in teaching Sé and also the tutors and support staff at People 1st, we can echo what Seamus said and it is clear that he will be one of the futures shining stars in this master craftsman trade and we are sure that great success lies ahead!

Posted on by r.donnelly

If you are interested in working part time for People 1st, then please read on as we have a fantastic opportunity to join our Joinery team in Dundrod, at our People 1st Construction Training Academy.

At People 1st we have a large team of ‘associate’ tutors. Being an associate tutor offers more flexibility to those who are looking for part-time work to suit personal and professional circumstances, while still earning an attractive hourly rate. At People 1st we are focused on developing our team and support our associate tutors with the opportunity to progress and engage in Continuous Professional Development.

“The most important thing for me that as a People 1st associate, you are still part of a team where you have excellent support and guidance when needed and are included in the company’s wide range of CPD provision and progression opportunities.  I started as an associate tutor and am now IQA and Curriculum lead for CCLD.  You also have flexibility with working, gain the benefits that come with being self-employed and also job satisfaction with teaching and achievements of learners.” Jennifer Boyle, CCLD IQA and Curriculum Lead

ASSOCIATE JOINERY TUTOR/ ASSESSOR:

Are you an experienced joiner and ready for a change? Do you like explaining to others how to do things? Then how about working in a teaching role with People 1st? We have a custom-built Construction Training Academy at the C.I.T.B training grounds in Dundrod, and we need a Joinery NVQ Assessor to join the team!

  • Location: CITB Dundrod, People 1st Construction Training Academy
  • Responsible to: Centre Manager
  • Hourly Rate: £20-25
  • Hours currently available: 12 hours
  • WORKING HOURS: Full day =6 hours
  • Job closing date: 12 noon, Friday 2nd Dec 2022

It is at this training facility where our young people learn the skills needed for the carpentry industry, and you will be an essential part of their learning journey. Aged 16-24, the People 1st learners are studying for their Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ Assessments in Site Carpentry on our Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Part of your role will be carrying out initial and diagnostic assessments which will help inform group learning plans and allow accurate tracking of each participants progression towards the required target level for each NVQ.

We are also looking for someone who is an active participant in the company’s quality improvement processes, open to self-evaluation and proficient in paperwork and organisation as you will be tasked with administrating all the necessary Department for Economy forms as well as other appropriate documentation, compliant with departmental guidelines.

Personal Specification
Essential

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in site Carpentry
  • Site experience attained across first fixing, second fixing and roofing
  • GCSE grade ‘C’ or equivalent in Math and English. 
  • Either hold, be working towards or happy to work towards a recognised teaching qualification, i.e., PGCE, B Ed, Certificate in Teaching (UUJ), or Diploma in Teaching and Management of Essential Skills.
  • A current driving licence and access to a car.
  • An effective communicator, sympathetic and understanding to the needs of young people.  
  • A high degree of commitment, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to develop and promote ideas effectively.  

Desirable

  • Experience in the delivery of accredited programmes
  • Assessor award (Can be obtained in house)

Behaviours/Capabilities

  • Positive, enthusiastic approach to problem solving with a “can do” attitude
  • Confident and professional approach
  • Organised and efficient methods of working
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload and adapt rapidly to changing priorities
  • Systematic approach to data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the personal and occupational success of the long 
          term unemployed
  • Creative and innovative approach to problem solving

To apply please send a copy of your cv to our Jacqueline Mc Stravick in our rectruitment team on [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 2nd December, 2022. 
Best of luck to all applying!

Posted on by r.donnelly

If you are interested in working part time for People 1st, then please read on as we have a fantastic opportunity to join our Barbering team in Belfast.

At People 1st we have a large team of ‘associate’ tutors. Being an associate tutor offers more flexibility to those who are looking for part-time work to suit personal and professional circumstances, while still earning an attractive hourly rate. At People 1st we are focused on developing our team and support our associate tutors with the opportunity to progress and engage in Continuous Professional Development.

“The most important thing for me that as a People 1st associate, you are still part of a team where you have excellent support and guidance when needed and are included in the company’s wide range of CPD provision and progression opportunities.  I started as an associate tutor and am now IQA and Curriculum lead for CCLD.  You also have flexibility with working, gain the benefits that come with being self-employed and also job satisfaction with teaching and achievements of learners.” 

Jennifer Boyle, CCLD IQA and Curriculum Lead

ASSOCIATE BARBERING TUTOR/ ASSESSOR:

Are you an experienced barber and ready for a change? Do you like explaining to others how to do things? Then how about working in a teaching role with People 1st? We have a fully operational teaching salon environment in the Hairdressing and Barbering Training Academy at our Ormeau Road branch, and we need a Barbering NVQ Assessor to join the team!

  • Location: Ormeau Road, People 1st Hairdressing and Barbering Training Academy
  • Responsible to: Centre Manager
  • Hourly Rate: £20-25
  • Hours currently available: between 6 and 12 hours, Mondays to Wednesdays ( can be flexible)
  • WORKING HOURS: Full day =6 hours
  • Job closing date: 12 noon, Friday 2nd Dec 2022
  • How to apply? Email your CV to Jacqueline McStravick on [email protected]

It is at this training facility where our young people learn the skills needed for the barbering industry, and you will be an essential part of their learning journey. Aged 16-24, the People 1st learners are studying for their Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ Assessments in Barbering on our Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Part of your role will be carrying out initial and diagnostic assessments which will help inform group learning plans and allow accurate tracking of each participants progression towards the required target level for each NVQ.

We are also looking for someone who is an active participant in the company’s quality improvement processes, open to self-evaluation and proficient in paperwork and organisation as you will be tasked with administrating all the necessary Department for Economy forms as well as other appropriate documentation, compliant with departmental guidelines.

Personal Specification:

Essential

  • A minimum of Level 3 qualification in subject area plus minimum of 2 years salon experience
  • Assessor award 
  • GCSE grade ‘C’ or equivalent in Math and English. 
  • Hold, be working towards, or happy to work towards a recognised teaching qualification, i.e., PGCE, B Ed, Certificate in Teaching (UUJ), or Diploma in Teaching and Management of Essential Skills.
  • A current driving licence and access to a car.  
  • An effective communicator, sympathetic and understanding to the needs of young people.  
  • A high degree of commitment, excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and promote ideas effectively.  

Desirable

  • Qualification and experience in hairdressing.  
  • Experience in the delivery of accredited programmes

Behaviours/Capabilities:

  • Positive, enthusiastic approach to problem solving with a “can do” attitude
  • Confident and professional approach
  • Organised and efficient methods of working
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task, plan and prioritise workload and adapt rapidly to changing priorities
  • Systematic approach to data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
  • Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the personal and occupational success of the long 
          term unemployed
  • Creative and innovative approach to problem solving

To apply please send a copy of your cv to our Jacqueline Mc Stravick in our rectruitment team on [email protected] by 12 noon on Friday 2nd December, 2022.
Best of luck to all applying!

Posted on by [email protected]

We have spaces NOW for 4 apprentice roofers for a building contractor who is based in Carrickfergus!! If you know someone aged 16-24 who wants to get into a trade? – then we want to hear from you. Get trained, get paid and get employed right from the beginning.

People 1st have opened up 4 spaces on our new course beginning next month. This is an incredible opportunity to get onto an apprenticeship that will have you trained up in a few short years and on the road to earning great money!!

Roofers in NI earn over £50,000 a year!! Thats more than a dentist, a teacher, and lots of other professions across NI! Put yourself onto a firm footing now for an incredible future with People 1st. We have a top training centre 15 mins outside Belfast where all our construction guys, including roofers, come one day a week for specialised training and then the other days are spent working with your employer!!

We have 4 vacancies ready to fill asap- our training team are ready, the employers are ready… are you ready? then contact us and sign up today by emailing our construction specialist Don on [email protected] or call 02890303982

Posted on by [email protected]

The People 1st Apprenticeship team of Peter, Nadine and Trevor are going to be at the Apprentice Fair at Guildhall Derry on 13th October- find out more about how you can sign up to be an apprentice with us and gain qualifications while you work!

The apprenticeships programme is a fabulous way to ‘earn while you learn’ if you want to get trained and gain qualifications in a vocational area while you work and get paid.

This option really suited current trainee chef Sean Owens, who is studying for his Level 3 apprenticeship with People 1st NorthWest and Browns In Town. Sean loved cooking and while working part time in Browns decided to leave the world of computers to forge a new path way in the culinary arts:
” I was working in IT and decided to go down the chef path as it was much more suited to me. Culinary School was very expensive and the Apprenticeships programme allows me to gather the same skills without any expense. I’d highly recommend it to anyone, the Apprenticeships programmme has given me the opportunity to follow a new career path. “

If you have any questions in the lead up to the event our specialist Nadine Elliott will be happy to answer them, so either email [email protected] or call 07999 025671

You can also watch more about Sean’s story below and find out more about his journey with People 1st and his employer Browns in Town, Derry.

Posted on by [email protected]

Invest in your warehousing team with an NVQ qualification and specialist training to develop your workforce into a team of motivated, efficient and skilled individuals. Warehousing is a crucial part of the local supply chain and with rising costs across the sector, it is more important than ever to have skilled and certified staff within your warehousing and logistics team to drive your business forward.

As demand continues to surge across this fast-paced sector, we recognise that warehousing staff need training and development to meet specific sector needs. We are offering an Apprenticeship in Warehousing to local businesses to help address skills shortages in this area by training new staff members or up-skilling existing team members. Use the skills and knowledge of our highly experienced tutors and assessors to learn how to handle these rapid advancements and improve the processes within your warehouse setting and ensure industry standards are met for quality, cost, and efficiency.

The next intake is open now for applications and with the courses starting on an ongoing basis, it is the ideal time to implement some changes and invest in your staff. The issue of an ageing workforce in Warehousing means an apprenticeship is a great way to inject fresh talent and incentivise younger team members so they are trained to progress when the time comes. Act now and make decisive changes for the better for your business- we are your preferred partner with over 25 years’ experience, delivering apprenticeship courses, People 1st will support you every step of the way.

We provide one to one guidance for the apprentice and will liaise directly with them to take care of the paperwork, and let you get on with running your business. Each Apprenticeship training is tailored to the needs of the individual employer and key skills delivered in this apprenticeship include: Organising Planning Customer Service IT Skills Teamwork Communication – formal and informal Personal Development And any other skills you feel the employee could benefit from!

We can also offer essential skills training in Maths and English to those who need it. Benefits to employee: Employed immediately and paid to learn Gain qualifications related to your industry Learn good problem-solving skills Work in a fast-paced environment Learn latest technology Work ‘on the job’ alongside experienced team members Receive ‘off the job’ quality training specific to Warehousing Receive mentorship from People 1st Gain skills for future progression.

 An Apprenticeship is the key to driving staff retention by investing in your team. Call our warehousing specialist Andrea at People 1st today on 07501724787 or email her at [email protected] to find out more about joining the May intake. Enrolment is now open so contact us today to secure your place!

We offer both Level 2 and Level 3 in this Apprenticeship, costs are as follow: Level 2: £850 plus vat plus initial £55 registration fee Level 3: £950 plus vat plus initial £65 registration fee.

Avail of full funding currently if you meet criteria on our Apprenticeships programme page. 

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