“I decided to sign up to The Learning Agreement because it gives me a second chance at training, whilst enjoying all the benefits of being in work. “

Kyle is a Material Test Inspector at William Cook Casting Products Ltd, a large Engineering Company in Leeds. His current work responsibilities include tensile testing metals and report writing. Kyle previously trained as a plumber at college, but decided to leave after a year due to the difficulty in finding a work placement. With a recently discovered passion for engineering, he remained committed to further training and showed immediate interest in the Learning Agreement.

Naturally, Kyle was disappointed when it transpired that his employer, although interested in free training, was reluctant to give him day-release due to staff shortage.  Leeds City Council Learning Agreement Keyworker, Emma Carlin, contacted Leeds Training Trust, who have been running engineering courses for over 45 years, for advice, and following a lot of research, it turned out that they were able to offer a work-based apprenticeship, which doesn’t require any time off work. This offer was taken up by the employer and Kyle has since been signed up to the Learning Agreement.

The training will enable him to potentially progress to do an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship, something the employer is supporting.

Carl Schofield, Quality Manager at William Cook, is very pleased with the arrangement, and would recommend any local employer to look at the Learning Agreement when considering  developing the  skills of their younger staff. He describes the benefits.

“Kyle is employed in a very small department which gives us little if any scope for off the premises training. Emma at the Learning Agreement was able to provide us with a range of workplace training options for Kyle that improves all aspects of his work from both a technical and health and safety point of view, and everyone benefits as a result. I would recommend it to any employer.”

Emma Carlin adds “The Learning Agreement gives young people the opportunity to acquire the skills and motivation to make a success of their careers whilst benefiting their employer’s business. Early indications have been very positive, but we want  young people, their employers and their parents to come forward quickly and discuss their requirements with our team.”