The ECITB’s Train to Retain scheme to support essential skills training for young engineers impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic is now available on an open application basis.
Train to Retain has already committed £7.5m to support learners’ development plans, pledging to support more than 500 apprentices, trainees and graduates to pursue their recognised industry programmes throughout the Covid-19 crisis. It has been praised by employers for helping keep new entrants in industry during this time of economic instability ready to play a crucial role in the workforce when economic conditions improve.
The new open application system will ensure train to retain is available to all engineering construction employers in-scope to the ECITB as and when it is required.
ECITB Chief Executive Chris Claydon
Chris Claydon, ECITB’s Chief Executive said: “Train to Retain has helped to keep hundreds of young engineers around the country learning vital workplace skills during an extremely challenging time for our industry.
“I am hugely proud of the achievements of this scheme so far and I am delighted that we are able to provide further support to engineering construction employers, enabling them to support junior members of their workforce to acquire new skills and remain in employment.
“By helping to keep hundreds of young engineers around the country in work and learning vital workplace skills, the ECITB is making a real investment in the future of our industry.”
The change of application process means the funding will be available until 24th November 2021
In-scope employers can apply for support for graduates, apprentices and trainees who meet the qualifying discipline criteria. The ECITB will contribute a day rate to fund training and professional development activities of £110 for apprentices, £120 for trainees or £130 for graduates.
The ECITB will review applications and agree funding every six weeks – approval is contingent on an individual’s Development Plan, the employer’s existing Train to Retain funding commitments and overall budget availability.
For more information visit www.ecitb.org.uk/traintoretain