NIACE partners with Humber to extend national traineeships

The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) has partnered with the Humber Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) to extend its national traineeship programmes.

According to the LEP, the demonstration pilot project will help it to raise awareness of traineeships, enable it to build better contacts with more employers and support local firms to create the right traineeship opportunities that will work to fill current and future vacancies.

The partnerships between the LEP and NIACE will help show how traineeships - the crown jewel of the government's efforts to promote training for young people - in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) will prevent future skills shortages and gaps in the Humber.

Tom Stannard, deputy chief executive of NIACE, said: “Having proven skills in STEM subjects are a priority for many employers across the country and not only in the Humber region. We are delighted to be working with the Humber LEP, following our very successful and groundbreaking work with the Dorset LEP.”

He added that NIACE has always discussed the importance of providing comprehensive skills training in aiding a sustainable economic recovery that benefits the whole of society. Mr Stannard and his organisation believe that skills shortages are the biggest threat to the UK’s recuperation and further growth across the country.

The deputy chief executive said that employers based in Britain are desperate for skilled workers, especially those in STEM industries, and young people are eager for opportunities to acquire the knowledge needed to pursue fulfilling and sustainable careers.

Mr Stannard believes traineeships are a great way to fill the gap, especially in regions that are focusing on particular key industries, including renewable energy, manufacturing, logistics and chemicals.

Mike Parker, chairman of the Humber LEP Employment and Skills Board, said: “Traineeships offer a real progression pathway to further training and employment and align directly with apprenticeship growth, which is a key driver for the Humber. We are delighted to be working on this national pilot and look forward to our employers’ response.”