Leading supply chain, transport and logistics company, Eddie Stobart, in partnership with the Warrington Jobcentre, has announced the first cohort of a new ‘work-ready’ academy programme.
The Eddie Stobart Academy Programme is split into two distinct sections of classroom learning and more practical working lessons, which have been designed to provide locals with the skills and experience to help them be ‘work-ready.’ For many participants, this will be the first time they’ve been given responsibility and ownership in a working environment, an experience that should help to improve self-confidence.
The programme accommodates all learning styles, offering the opportunity for classroom and workplace learning, volunteering posts and team building activities. The programme is open to locals aged 18 and upwards who are not in education, employment or training.
The programme is the latest in a series of training initiatives from Eddie Stobart. Earlier this year, the company launched a new undergraduate course in partnership with the University of Bolton as part of its ongoing commitment to improving the industry training benchmark.
Gary Byrne, Head of Learning and Development at Eddie Stobart said, “We’re committed to investing in new talent to ensure we have the right skills and leaders to future-proof our business. We’re dedicated to investing in the next generation as well as bringing opportunities to the local community – we’re thrilled to introduce the Eddie Stobart Academy Programme as our latest training initiative.”
Speaking of the news Susan Savage at the Warrington Jobcentre said, “We’re delighted to have partnered with Eddie Stobart to develop a programme that provides local jobseekers with the skills and experience they need to be successful in the workplace. We hope to develop the programme further in the future and continue to provide more opportunities.”
Eddie Stobart and the Department for Work and Pensions will also offer support and guidance throughout the course, including additional support from Eddie Stobart’s central HR function. As well as work experience, the programme provides training in life skills such as money management and first aid.
Once the cohort have successfully completed the course, participants are guaranteed an interview for relevant and open roles that are currently available within the company. Anthony Poole, who gained experience in the Payroll Department, has already been offered the position of Assistant Accountant and is due to start at the end of the programme on the 28th October.
Anthony comments: “I am so grateful for this opportunity, the programme from start to finish has been great. It’s been really useful for me – I already feel much more confident in my skills and in the workplace and I’m more comfortable around new people. I’ve also made some new friends.”
Julie Daintith, Head of Communications at Eddie Stobart added: “I’m extremely proud and passionate about making Eddie Stobart the employer of choice, not just within the industry but within the local area too. Our academy programme further cements our commitment towards us achieving our ambitions and I look forward to welcoming further cohorts to our industry.”
