Paving the Way. How Chichester College is helping to train future pothole heroes

Chichester College provides training to support plan to tackle potholes in West Sussex.

Chichester College has launched a new training initiative, in conjunction with Velocity and the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions), designed to help fast-track employment skills to fill urgent job vacancies.

The programme launched with two groups of job seekers, who completed health & safety and essential employability skills courses, which should help them gain employment with Velocity – a highways maintenance contractor which uses innovative technology to carry out road repairs.

Helen Loftus, Principal at Chichester College, said: “This is a fantastic example that demonstrates how we work with employers to meet their needs.

“We’re proud to be delivering courses which will not only help people back into work, but also support Velocity to grow their workforce and fill urgent job vacancies.

“They have been contracted by the local authority to tackle potholes in West Sussex, which meant there was a need to recruit more staff to enable them to do so. And our Adult Skills and Construction teams were happy to jump into action, providing vital fast-track employment skills through an engaging programme with 100% achievement!”

The state of local roads across the county – as well as the country – has been widely reported over recent years, with the RAC estimating that drivers encounter an average of six potholes per mile in England and Wales.

In December, the government announced a funding boost for local authorities, with funds funding designed to make roads safer.

Job Centres locally have also been playing their part, supporting people into work with Velocity and working with Chichester College to give them skills to help them.

Lauren Girdler, Employer Advisor at Bognor Regis Job Centre for Department for Work and Pensions, said: “We were thrilled to partner with Chichester College Group and being involved designing the course structure to best support our customers and our employer velocity.

“The pre-employment training provided our customers of the job centre with valuable knowledge and insights into the sector and with all 22 customers passing having secured a guaranteed job interview.

“Velocity and I went over to the college and met with the groups which was filled with enthusiasm and positivity and the feedback we’ve received has been great. We’re excited to continue supporting individuals in securing meaningful employment opportunities through our partnership with Chichester College.”