This innovative approach to training, which has been supported by Newark MP Robert Jenrick, gives students the chance to get the qualifications they need whilst doing paid work for one of the UK’s leading IT specialists.
From September Newark College Level 2 and 3 IT Software students will spend two days a week at work, gaining practical skills in hardware repairs, alongside three days a week studying in college.
When they graduate they will either be offered a job - starting on £18,000 per year, an apprenticeship, or leave fully qualified with a line on their CV that proves they are a top candidate for employment.
This exciting development for the town was the brainchild of Lincoln College Group and KnowHow bosses.
The firm, which has expanded its operations in Newark, currently employs 4,000 people, many of whom currently live outside the Town.
KnowHow desperately wants to tap into local talent and plug its skills gap with young people from Newark.
Knowhow Project Manager Jules Harrison said: “We are dependent on local talent to support our growing, FTSE 100 Company.
“When we took on the Mobile phone repairs from Dixons/Carphone in 2015, it was clear we needed to start to build a talent pool in the local area.
“We already had a good relationship with Newark College and we are delighted to be working together to provide these combined college and work place courses for students, starting this year.
“We will develop qualified engineers with the skills we need to support and grow our business and provide great career opportunities for the successful students.
“The college is also supporting us with various courses for our existing colleagues to help them develop their skills.
“It is great to have such excellent facilities for learning on our doorstep and we are sure this partnership will go from strength to strength. We will continue to work together to provide the best learning experience for the students.”
Director of Education and Training for Newark College, Martin Booth said: “Our mission is to be led by local employers, designing new ways of training local people to meet their needs.
“This new level of collaboration with business ensures we provide secure and lucrative career paths for young people in the town.
“This is a model we are looking to replicate with other local employers to ensure that young people are able to secure careers close to their homes and families and to strengthen the local economy.”
Newark MP Robert Jenrick said: “I’m delighted that a new, innovative partnership has been established between Newark College and one of our biggest local employers, KnowHow.
“Local talent is needed to support our local economy and this is a huge step forward in developing the essential links between our schools, colleges and employers.”
Find out more and apply for the course now by calling: 030 030 32435
