The INCA Specialist Apprenticeship Programme, which is the first of its kind for EWI, is delivered in modules with a mix of off-site and supervised on the job training covering every aspect of the trade. The latest off-site training covering Basic Board Installation and Base Coats was delivered in May, giving the apprentices further hands on experience under the guidance of industry experts. At the end of the programme in December 2012, the apprentices from INCA members Astley Facades (Midlands) Ltd, E.ON Property Services, EWS (Essex) Ltd, Joyner Group PA (Cymru) Ltd and Renocon Ltd, will achieve an NVQ level 2 in Insulating and Building Treatments (Construction) and a CSCS card in External Wall Insulation.
The Government has placed apprenticeships at the heart of its Sustainable Growth Strategy and will provide funding for 1,000 ‘Green Deal’ apprentices as part of plans to improve the energy efficiency of UK homes and businesses. EWI will be at the forefront of the Green Deal and INCA and its members are investing now in the training of the workforce to make sure the industry is ready for the anticipated surge in demand for EWI. The apprentices will undertake specific training in Customer Care as the Green Deal will be focused on protecting consumers upgrading their homes.
Mike Threadgold, Chairman of the INCA Training Committee, praised the success of the INCA Specialist Apprenticeship Programme:
“It is encouraging to see what the apprentices are achieving as a result of their hard work. EWI is a highly specialised trade and recognised training and qualification is crucial to the delivery of quality projects. INCA and its members are committed to apprenticeships as the future of the industry and the enthusiasm with which the candidates are putting their knowledge into practice will make them a credit to INCA and the EWI industry.”
INCA is expecting to launch a second scheme under its Specialist Apprenticeship Programme later in 2011.
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