Improving skills training in Stevenage
Barbara Follett visited Ridgemond Training’s new premises on Caxton Way last week and was most impressed with their much improved facilities and expanded programme.
Ridgemond, which is the County’s largest independent training provider, moved from its previous premises in Chells a year ago after Stevenage Borough Council decided to use part of a £5.2 million government improvement grant to build key worker housing on their old site.
After touring Ridgemond’s well equipped new workshops in the Q3 building on Caxton Way Mrs Follett said, “I am delighted that the young people of Stevenage have such a go ahead training facility. This town has a wide variety of employers looking for skilled workers and I know that Ridgemond can provide them”.
Barbara Follett with (from left) Peter Daniel (Chairman), Caroline Collins (Chief Executive) and Councillor Reg Smith outside the new Caxton Way facility
Apprentices Luke Gore and Ross Cook show Training Manager Ian Aitkins and Barbara Follett their bricklaying skills
More about Ridgemond
Ridgemond Training was founded in 1983 to deliver the then government’s youth training programme. Now completely independent it offers formal training in areas like construction, IT, horticulture and customer service. Nearly 400 people aged between 14 and 24 are involved in Ridgemond’s programmes.
All training is to national standards focusing on addressing skill sector shortages and preparing young people for the world of work. The Centre’s funding comes from the Learning and Skills Council, the European Social Fund and the Local Education Authority.
Ridgemond’s newest initiative is delivering (in partnership with local colleges) 'Train to Gain', an employer-focused, Government-funded programme to accredit the workforce at level 2, which contributes to National Training Targets.
Issued: 05.09.2006
Further information
Please contact Faye Bunch via the 'Contact' page, or by fax on 020 7219 1158.
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