Next Phase Of NVQ ‘Upskilling’ Initiative Is Launched In NI

Construction workers in Northern Ireland will be able to benefit from the next phase of the ‘Qualifying the Existing Workforce’ project which will qualify 1,000 currently unqualified, experienced, employed construction workers to NVQ Level 2.

This project is a joint initiative by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL), CITBConstructionSkills NI (now CITB NI) and the Joint Council for the Building & Civil Engineering Industry.

Since its initial launch in June 2012 the project has provided over 500 free NVQ Level 2 qualifications for unqualified individuals working in the industry.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI said: “It is encouraging that in these economic times the ‘Qualifying the Existing Workforce Project’ has been so successful and we are delighted to secure funding for the next phase in order to continue the momentum in the construction industry. The project has already helped increase productivity for individuals whilst also helping address the industry’s skills challenge.

“Our research shows that the economy is turning the corner and the NI construction industry will benefit from that. It is therefore essential that we identify and address the skills and training needs of the workforce necessary for the long term future of the sector. We encourage construction workers to sign up and claim their free training not only to help themselves but also the local industry.”

For full details, and a list of occupations available, log onto www.citbni.org.uk