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The Ford Engineering Academy based at Tyne Dock in South Shields looks to offer young people the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of advanced manufacturing in the North East.
The Academy is a partnership between Ford Engineering Group and South Tyneside College and aims to provide a talented workforce for the future.
Attending the six-month long Academy, young people learn a range of employment skills, can improve their literacy & numeracy and experience the world of work first hand, completing 6 weeks of work experience in the industry.
Those completing the academy also gain a level two qualification in Performing Engineering Operations and a guaranteed job interview with a local employer. A significant portion of those completing the Academy progress onto a Level 3 apprenticeship, further education or employment.
To promote and support this initiative, The National Careers Service worked with South Tyneside Council to support a recruitment and information event held by Ford Engineering Academy in July.
An invitation to all young people in years 10 and 11 including their parents and carers was sent via South Tyneside Council. Business, Employment and Skills Manager Sarah James said:
“At South Tyneside Council we are committed to inspiring young people regarding their future careers. The information and recruitment event helped to showcase the excellent opportunities available, such as the Ford Engineering Academy”.
The event proved a brilliant success, with over 120 young people and their parents and carers attending over the two nights.
Speeches were delivered by Renee Laming, Work Based Learning Manager at South Tyneside College and Geoff Ford, Chairman of Ford Engineering Group. Attendees were also given a tour of the manufacturing facility by staff from Ford including Lee Gray, an apprentice accountant, Chloe Kingsland, who is undertaking a CNC Milling apprenticeship and Emily Rundle, who is an apprentice in Supply Chain and Purchasing.
Mr Ford said “It was important that both young people and their parents had a tour of the facility to take in the high tech and professional environment they may be part of. The Academy provides a great opportunity for young people to learn the basics in a highly valued industry.”
Mrs Laming added “Through the Academy, South Tyneside College is committed to enabling young people to gain skills in a much valued sector where they can embark upon successful careers.”
After the recruitment and information day 15 young people were successful in securing a place at the Academy and began their training this September. One of those young people was Kyle Johnstone. He said:
“I am enjoying my time at the Academy, it is very different from school and I am looking forward to my work experience as I am hoping to secure a Level 3 engineering apprenticeship after my traineeship. I am sure the Academy is setting me on track to a successful career.”
Spotlight On: Traineeships and Apprenticeships at Ford Engineering Academy