The South Eastern Regional College (SERC) is preparing individuals to thrive in the workplace by up-skilling employees with nationally recognised essential skills qualifications.
In line with their collaboration values, SERC is working with Downpatrick-based Mainstay DRP to up-skill employees in the area of numeracy and ICT.
Mainstay DRP offers a range of residential and respite care, supported housing, day-care services and vocational training and have availed of level 2 essential skills numeracy and ICT qualifications to raise the skill base of 37 of their employees.
Cathreena Drake, Mainstay DRP HR Manager, said “Mainstay DRP have always offered staff the opportunity to up skill in a variety of different areas. Through the process of internal promotion opportunities, we noticed that some staff could not apply as they didn’t have the qualifications to demonstrate their competency in English and Maths.
“So we approached SERC to see if there was a possibility of working together to provide staff with the opportunity to gain Essential Skill in Literacy, Numeracy and ICT. Feedback from the training was that essential skills were better received by employees when they were contextualized to their vocational area.”
SERC Head of Business Services Janice Cooke said: “In today’s rapidly changing economy, employees need more opportunities to improve their skills. We are encouraged to see that Mainstay DRP recognise this priority. Mainstay DRP have taken steps to support their workforce and business outcomes through essential skills training.
“I commend the investment in skills development. Their leadership and investment in essential skills training is a beacon for businesses across the province. Their commitment to providing essential skills training to employees exemplifies how employers and the further education sector can work together to develop the skills that are needed to succeed.
“We urge businesses to recognise their commitment to investing in the essential skills of their workforce as part of their business strategy. We understand how hard it is for businesses to upskill employees. That’s why we make it as easy as possible for participants by working with them to minimise the impact of releasing staff. It’s a real partnership.”
SERC offer a comprehensive range of training programmes to suit the needs of local employers. For full details, call our Business Services team on 02892 626778 or visit the SERC website at:
