The PtC scheme, created by the CCATF, delivers funding to help local employers with the costs of giving students up to five weeks’ work experience on site towards the end of the first year of their two-year course.
The expectation for the PtC has always been that the employer will take a student into employment as an apprentice for the second year of their course. This ensures that a full NVQ framework can be achieved by the student, ensuring ongoing employment in the industry as a skilled worker.
Speaking about the funding award Mr Geoff Lister of the CCATF commented, ‘This award from B&CE recognises the need for a way of supporting local businesses ‘try before you buy’ approach’ with a student. He continued, ‘it is clear that without the generosity and financial support of Nicola and the team at B&CE it would not have been possible to offer this scheme and we are most grateful for their on-going support’.
Nicola Sinclair, B&CE Charitable Trust Manager said, ‘this is the fifth year that the B&CE Charitable Trust has provided funding to the CCATF, and so far our support has led to 40 students achieving employment in the construction industry – we are delighted with that result. The contribution of Geoff and the team at the CCATF to addressing real skills needs in the construction sector is to be applauded’.
‘The B&CE Charitable Trust recognises that the funding it provides makes a ‘real world’ difference to the opportunity for young individuals to showcase their skills and knowledge with local employers.’
One outstanding example of the success of the PtC Scheme offered by the CCATF is its close partnerships with Tameside College, Ashton under Lyme, which has, since 2013 created over 40 such ‘PtC’ placements into industry.
Following on from this success, the CCATF plans to extend the PtC Scheme further in 2017. CCATF Chairman, Martyn Price commented, ‘the significance of being awarded the funding from B&CE cannot be underestimated. It provides the ability for the organisation to, once again, demonstrate the true value of taking on an apprentice, as well as providing a financial cushion to the employer in respect of certain costs’.
He continued, ‘With our aim of extending the reach and range of the PtC Scheme to a wider audience, this award could not have come at a better time’.
