New Sidey Training Academy to provide safe and supportive environment to develop skills
To celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship week in March, fenestration specialist Sidey is set to officially launch its new training academy.
In response to the declining skilled labour market, the company decided to create the Sidey Training Academy and begin an associated Modern Apprenticeship Program with the intention of growing it’s workforce and promising long term security of employment, to those engaged within it.
Donna Montgomery, Sideys Community Benefits Manager commented: “Sidey’s Training academy extends beyond the physical space created next door to our Perth showroom, it encompasses the resources invested every single day in coaching, mentoring and training our apprentices to become exceptional members of our team.
“Apprentices work towards a level 5 SCQF through vocational training over a 12–18-month period. In tandem, our bespoke Milestones training plan clearly sets out the competencies required to fulfil their role, against which they are assessed monthly, provided with constructive feedback and goals to work towards. Apprentices will regularly spend time in our Feus Road Training Academy, which provides a safe space, in a closely supervised, supportive environment to practice new skills before they are refined on site.”
The Sidey Training Academy building contains timber kits accommodating various styles of windows and doors, with replaceable subframes to allow apprentices to remove and refit repeatedly. There is textured render, cladding, a bay frame, roofline, and hand/power tools to work with. A large television screen and comfortable seating area provides an area for inductions, presentations, and training sessions.
Donna continued: “Our apprentices have varied backgrounds, sourced from Council led employment programmes and in future, college graduates of Joinery/Carpentry NPA courses. Each apprentice has a drive to succeed and pride in their work, a strong foundation upon which Sidey can build, passing on knowledge accumulated with almost a centuries experience in the fenestration industry.”
Sidey apprentice, James Dickson Jnr commented – “I’m really excited to be taken on by Sidey as an Apprentice and look forward to where the journey takes me. In five years’ time, I would like to be fully qualified & part of my own team.”
Investment in its people is at the heart of Sidey, this extends from employment through to the physical and mental wellbeing of its apprentices and employees. Mentors & Managers care deeply about maintaining a healthy, positive working environment conducive to success.
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