BID Company’s Business of the Month for June is training city’s workforce of the future

BID Company Liverpool’s chosen the City of Liverpool College at its Business of the Month for June – highlighting its constant commitment to creating the workforce of the future.

Not only is the college one of the leading providers of apprenticeships in Liverpool, it says it’s forged powerful partnerships with employers across the city region, supporting the growth of the workforce across a host of industries including construction, engineering, health, and hospitality.

Beth Locke, engagement manager for BID Company Liverpool, says:

“Upskilling the workforce and creating a talent pool for the future to ensure the continued success of business is crucial to the city and to reducing the skills gap experienced by many sectors creating growth and resilience.”

Getting the message across to businesses is key, according to Peter Sandman, commercial director at City of Liverpool College.

He says:

“Many businesses may not fully understand the advantages apprenticeships provide in terms of developing new skills and creating a tailored workforce, or understand how apprenticeships are funded.”

City of Liverpool College has an Apprenticeship Guide which employers can download to learn about the benefits of investing in apprenticeships, either through an apprenticeship levy or direct government funding.

And there are currently more than 30 apprenticeship standards offered at the college: “We are committed to providing industry-led qualifications that meet the current and future skills needs of employers,” adds Peter.

* Apprenticeships range from construction and engineering to health and pharmacy, with a focus on developing a pipeline of talent.

* The college has also established strong partnerships with industry leaders such as Sodexo, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and global refrigeration company Marshall Thermoking, offering apprentices amazing career opportunities and real-world learning experiences.

Colin Salmon, director of work based learning and STEM at City of Liverpool College, focuses on just some of the employers the college is working with, and what they can offer:

* Its partnership with Marshall Fleet Solutions enables the college to recruit apprentices from all corners of the country. Additionally, they contribute guest speakers and provide expert consultation in the development of courses.

* Through its partnership with Worcestor Bosch Alliance, students in the gas and heating programmes gain access to industry standard workshops and stay updated on the latest theoretical and practical knowledge.

* Collaborating with MCS, the college gains access to expert consultations on its curriculum design, enabling it to embed first class green technology skills in all of its courses.

Felipe Lorenz doing course work. Credit: The City of Liverpool College

Colin says:

“Apprenticeships provide the opportunity to earn while learning and gain practical, on-the-job training.

“Employers also benefit from apprenticeships, as the college can tailor the training to meet their specific requirements and develop a skilled workforce that’s aligned with their industry needs. The City of Liverpool College leads the way in apprenticeship provision by working closely with employers to invest in individuals and develop long-term relationships that result in a strong talent pipeline.”

By working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and offering support in areas such as maths and English, the college ensures anyone can apply for an apprenticeship and succeed in their chosen field.

Whether it’s upskilling existing employees or training individuals from scratch, City of Liverpool College says it’s dedicated to investing in the future workforce and providing opportunities for career development.

And by working closely with industry partners and offering a range of apprenticeship opportunities, it’s shaping the future workforce and helping to meet the skills needs of the city.