Construction and Scaffolding Academy Opens for Applications in Mid and East Antrim

Applications are now open for the new Construction and Scaffolding Academy in Mid and East Antrim, giving local residents the chance to gain industry-recognised qualifications and practical experience within the construction sector.

The programme is funded through the Department for Communities via the Mid and East Antrim Labour Market Partnership and will be delivered by Workforce Training with support from CITB NI and local employers including 7 Towers Scaffolding.

Training Dates and What Participants Will Learn

Training will take place from Monday 22 June to Wednesday 1 July.

Participants will receive training in:

• Health, Safety and Environment
• First Aid at Work
• Manual Handling
• COSHH awareness
• Employability skills
• Interview preparation

There will also be a dedicated training day at CITB NI where participants can achieve their Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme Operative Training Scheme accreditation (COTS) and obtain a Construction Skills Register card (CSR card).

Mayor Encourages Residents to Apply

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, welcomed the academy and encouraged anyone interested in construction to sign up.

He said construction projects are continuing across the borough and highlighted the opportunity for residents to build careers working outdoors within the industry.

Employers Supporting the Programme

Amanda Crossen, Project Manager at CITB NI, said partnerships like this are important for encouraging new workers into the construction industry and helping employers connect with motivated individuals ready to begin their careers.

Steven Douglas, Managing Director of 7 Towers Scaffolding, said the company was proud to support the initiative and described programmes like this as vital for developing practical skills and creating career pathways into the industry.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be aged over 18
• Live in Mid and East Antrim
• Be unemployed, economically inactive or working fewer than 21 hours per week

To apply, interested residents should contact Workforce Training Services and include their contact details, address and postcode, along with “Construction & Scaffolding Academy” in the subject line.

Useful Links

• Apply and find out more:
  https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/news/construction-and-scaffolding-academy-opens-for-applications-in-mid-and-east
• Workforce Training Services:
  https://www.workforceonline.org/
• CITB NI Information:
  https://www.citbni.org.uk/