14 January 2008

Training Cash Boost a Golden Opportunity for Scottish Quarriers

QPA Scotland has heralded the signing of a new Training Delivery Contract between Proskills and Scottish Enterprise, which will support training for quarry operators until the end of March 2010.

The project will provide quarriers with access to funding up to a maximum of 50% of the training costs as well as specialist help in the development of bespoke company training plans.

Once companies have expressed an interest in securing funded training, they will receive a consultancy visit from an HR and Training professional who will advise on developing corporate training plans. The contract is being managed by Proskills and companies that are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity should contact Linda McCourt, Proskills Scottish Manager, on 01235 432032 or linda.mccourt@proskills.co.uk.

QPA Scotland Secretary John Sheridan explains that the new Training Delivery Contract is the welcome product of a period of negotiation: "it's undoubtedly great news for Scottish quarry operators, and a funding stream specifically for the extractives and minerals processing sector is unique in the UK. QPA has been involved with planning the Contract with Scottish Enterprise and Proskills and I now urge operators to take advantage of this support."

Proskills Scotland Manager Linda McCourt said "Proskills is delighted to have brokered this funding opportunity on behalf of the quarrying industry in Scotland. This is a terrific opportunity for both small independent and larger companies in the sector to give the skills of their workforce a boost".

Scottish Enterprise's Senior Director of Skills and learning, Professor Stephanie Young is similarly enthusiastic: "Scottish Enterprise Glasgow is delighted to be working with Proskills to support their ambitious programme through the Construction Skills Action Plan for the development of their industry. This is a positive step towards increasing the skills levels in Scotland. I look forward to working in partnership with Proskills to help realise their ambitions".

ENDS

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