Qualification will smooth over skills gap
HIQ Tyres & Autocare Havant forms part of the growing network of independent tyre and garage service centres across the United Kingdom, backed by global tyre brand Goodyear.
Managing director Reg Gray and operations director John Bridle at HIQ Tyres & Autocare Havant, said in a joint statement: “We are thrilled to win these prestigious national awards, which reflect what a fantastic job the whole team at HIQ Tyres & Autocare Havant have done over the last few years. We are very proud of our team and to be part of the Goodyear-backed HIQ network.”
Craig Sprigmore, Goodyear Retail Director UK & Ireland, added: “It fills me with immense pride to see HIQ Tyres & Autocare Havant win this award. Earning recognition as the top-performing store for fleet services nationwide speaks volumes about the commitment of the staff, who consistently deliver unparalleled service to its customers. A heartfelt congratulations to HIQ Tyres & Autocare Havant and its exceptional team for this well-deserved award.”
St Vincent College, Gosport
St Vincent College is launching a new plastering qualification in September to help plug a skills gap in the area.
It will introduce a Level 2 diploma plastering course, which will complement the Level 1 course introduced in 2021. The construction sector has long reported a shortage of skilled workers and a training need has been identified by the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.
Teacher Richard Naunton-evans said the new qualification will make students more employable.
“This is a real opportunity for progression for students who have completed the Level 1 course.
“They will learn about rendering, floating walls both inside and out as well as working with a variety of backgrounds and background materials, which will make them more versatile and employable.
“As an experienced and qualified plasterer myself I am very passionate about teaching the right skills and passing on my knowledge, so to be able to offer this deeper level of teaching is exciting.”
The college, which is part of the Lighthouse Learning Trust, will see an investment of £75,000 from the trust into expanding the teaching space and providing extra equipment. This investment will see the continued expansion of the college’s construction provision following a £600,000 capital expansion projected funded by the trust and Department for Education in 2021.
Executive principal
Andy Grant said: “We listen closely to employers and understand what the job market needs so this is a very worthwhile investment.
“We already provide excellent teaching but this new qualification will leave students even better prepared to take up apprenticeship or further training opportunities.”
The college has partnered with leading supplier British Gypsum to receive support for the course by supplying £1,500 worth of materials a year. The college is also being supported by trade supplier Refina through discounted tools and materials.
“We are delighted to be working alongside British Gypsum and Refina,” said Mr Grant. “It’s fantastic they are playing their part in supporting the next generation of trades people here in Gosport and we look forward to establishing further ties with the sector.”
Find out more here: stvincent.ac.uk.