Free courses
Skills for Sustainable Development (SSD) Project
Bedford College led a group of colleges
in the East of England offering free training to the unemployed to
prepare them for careers in one of the few growing economic
sectors- ‘green’ jobs.
The £650,000 Skills for Sustainable
Development Project, co-funded by European Social Fund was
successfully completed at the end of December 2011. Training
was provided for over 600 people – 20% above target. A wide
range of subjects were offered in renewable energy technologies and
sustainable construction skills with the most popular courses
being:
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· Renewable Energy
Awareness
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· Personal Survival
Techniques (offshore working)
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· Introduction to
Sustainable Construction & Health and Safety Awareness
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· Wind Turbine
Electrical Awareness
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· Trade Aware - Low
Carbon Skills
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· Introduction to
Renewable Energy
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Bedford College provided training for around 35% of the
participants and also offered innovative courses such as Installing
and Testing Domestic PV Systems and Rammed Earth Construction.
Over half of the participants had been
unemployed for more than 6 months. Although finding work was the
most challenging aspect of the project,- to date 31 people have
been supported to gain employment.
The project was also successful in attracting
priority groups; 17% of participants had declared a disability and
15% were from an ethnic minority group.
Feedback from learners was very positive:
“The training I received was first rate
and the trainers were attentive and engaging.” David Kelly
“It helped me find contacts for
specialist advice.” Peter Hayworth
“The course improved my job
prospects.” Patrick Napier
“The course has provided me with a
relevant accreditation but also personal growth.” Lesley
Hartley
“The course was perfect, there was a great
atmosphere and everyone really enjoyed it.” Paul Cross
COMPETITION
WINNERS!!!
Steven West
Jock Chisango
Edward Cooke
Wendy Pearman
Kelvin Youngs
