HUNDREDS of people from across the North East have been given employment, training and a future in one fell swoop as Nissan puts 600 new recruits at its Sunderland plant through the apprenticeship programme.
The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) North East now funds apprenticeships for all ages. The majority of Nissan’s new apprentices, whose training is being provided and assessed by Gateshead College and NETA training group, will be helping build the Qashqai, Micra and Note models. They will be studying for an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) Level 2 in performing manufacturing operations and key skills in English and maths Level 2.
Steve Pallas, training and development manager at Nissan’s Global Training Centre at the Sunderland plant, said: “Nissan is proud of its reputation as a world class operation and there is no doubt that a major reason for our success is the capability of our staff. We have been able to achieve a highly trained and productive workforce through investing in training that provides our people with the necessary knowledge and skills to sustain and improve our business.”
One of the new recruits is 29-year-old John Duffy, from Prudhoe, who has a degree in industrial products and design. Before joining Nissan, he worked for a car modification company in Newcastle. He said: “My previous job was a good job but I had progressed as far as I could and I wanted a job with a future. My current role at Nissan involves checking the safety of cars for the road and involves a great deal of responsibility. I would never have thought there were so many checks involved before a car can go out on the road. This job is enjoyable, has an excellent wage and great prospects for the future. I have really landed on my feet.”
Chris Roberts, regional director, LSC North East, said: “This is a fantastic example of an employer investing in the skills of its workforce. A successful apprenticeship programme is essential if the country is to equip employers and individuals with the skills they need to be competitive in a global market. Apprenticeships are excellent value for money for employers, providing highly trained, productive and committed members of staff.
“The apprenticeship programme is a huge success in the North East, a key route to help employers achieve a workforce with the skills they need to succeed and regenerate the regional economy.
“More and more people are completing qualifications through the apprenticeships programme in the region, but we need more employers to come forward and employ apprentices. Nissan’s obvious commitment to the programme highlights how it can benefit employers’ and their example should be followed.” Skills Minister David Lammy said: “Apprenticeships provide first-class training not just for youngsters, but for people of all ages – and are a great way for employers to gain a competitive edge by developing world-class skills. I congratulate Nissan for engaging so enthusiastically with the revived and expanded apprenticeships programme, and wish the new recruits the very best in their future careers.”
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