New initiative to address training and skills in UK rubber industry
An initiative to improve technical training in the UK rubber manufacturing industry is being launched in order to safeguard its future.
The Elastomer Training Action Group (ELTAG*) is proposing to set up a new course, starting in Autumn 2016, which would improve upon the existing model in terms of accessibility to a wider audience.
“The future of rubber manufacturing in the UK depends on the development and production of high-tech, high value specialised products,” explained John Dorken, Director of the British Rubber and Polyurethane Products Association (BRPPA) and Co-Ordinator of ELTAG.
“Fortunately the UK industry has a number of companies which are at the forefront of rubber technology. However, their future could be put at risk unless they can access the necessary skills. Training provision in the UK needs to be substantially improved.”
The proposed new course is based on one currently run by South Leicestershire College. Despite its popularity, the course structure is based on students travelling to the college one day a week for two years, which is restrictive for students that live outside the area.
Dorken explained that it is expected that employers would be more willing to send staff on a block release three times a year, with the location decided in the light of demand. The course would be administered by South Leicestershire College.
The course would be pitched at level three or equivalent and would also be suitable for others, including graduates, who need to top up their existing knowledge with a full understanding of rubber technology.
For the course to go ahead, a minimum of six students are needed. Companies and organisations who are interested in the new scheme are invited to register their interest with the British Rubber and Polyurethane Products Association (BRPPA) by email to jdorken@brppa.co.uk, or by phone on 01787 226 995, no later than 3 June 2016.
“Our initiative is designed as a first step to ensure that employers are able to find the training in the UK that they need,” Dorken concluded.
*ELTAG was set up in the autumn of 2014 and comprises the following organisations/companies: