Work Ready Programme

The ECITB Work Ready Programme is designed to tackle industry skills shortages and support individuals into employment.

The programme is a collaborative and co-funded partnership between the ECITB, employers, training providers, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and other local partners.

Attendees, who are 18 and over, gain recognised industry skills and accredited qualifications as part of a programme that lasts up to 16 weeks and helps them secure employment at the end.

The pilot programme at Pembrokeshire College in 2023 was a big success with all learners who completed the programme gaining employment and prompted the expansion of the model across the UK in 2024 with further cohorts in Cumbria, Pembrokeshire, Hampshire and Teesside, including many who have been long-term unemployed, going through a Trainee Maintenance Operative (TMO) programme.

The programme was developed to create a pipeline of new entrants aged 18+ and help address skills shortages in the engineering construction industry, with the ECITB’s Labour Forecasting Tool predicting a 28% increase in demand for workers by 2028.

ECITB Chief Executive Andrew Hockey said: “The success of these collaborative partnerships to get these schemes off the ground underscores the programme’s effectiveness as a scalable solution to address regional skills gaps and build a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.”

The cohort on the pilot programme at Pembrokeshire College in February 2023 (above). Below: Learner Megan Beckerleg on day one of the programme in Pembrokeshire in March 2024.

Developing work-ready skills

Upon successful completion of the TMO programme learners will achieve a Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations and employability skills training. They will also receive work-ready skills and ECITB certification including:

• Client and Contract National Safety Group (CCNSG) Safety Passport
• Manual handling
• Handheld and abrasive wheels
• Working in low risk confined space
• Working at height
• Working safely with hand and power tools and equipment
• ECITB Digital Passport (delivered through online learning) includes:
  • Using devices and handling information
  • Creating and editing documents and spreadsheets,
  • Digital communication
  • Correspondence and presentations
  • Online safety

Following their training, learners could secure employment in their local engineering construction industry and progress to craft or technician tradesperson.

Find out more on the Work Ready programme

If you are an employer or training provider interested in the ECITB Work Ready Programme, please contact your ECITB Account Manager or email WorkReady@ecitb.org.uk