Before attending the Skills Academy, Chris had been struggling to secure employment. The lack of job opportunities had left him disheartened and uncertain about his future prospects. However, he remained determined to find a way back into the workforce and was willing to invest his time and effort into acquiring new skills. Having heard positive feedback about the Skills Academy from a friend, he contacted the Academy to ask if he could be considered for the Gateway to Construction Program.
After reaching out to the Skills Academy expressing his interest, Chris was invited to an information session. During this session, he was provided with comprehensive details about the training program, including the specific modules and qualifications he would gain upon completion. The Academy staff also highlighted potential job roles that would become available to him after successfully completing the training.
In March 2023, Chris officially began his journey with the Seymour Skills Academy’s Gateway to Construction Program. Throughout the training, he demonstrated great dedication and commitment to learning. The comprehensive curriculum covered a range of essential skills and certifications necessary for a successful career in the construction industry. Over the course of the training, Chris successfully completed all elements of the Gateway to Construction Program. Among the certifications he acquired were NRSWA Street Works, Emergency First Aid at Work, Cat & Genny, CSCS Green card including L1 Health & Safety, Stihl Saw and Face fit training. Chris then progressed and completed Plant machinery training, regulated by the Awarding Body NPORS, successfully passing Ride on Roller, Slinger Signaller, Forward Tipping Dumper and Below 10Tone Excavator.
“Chris has been a pleasure to have at the Academy and we are delighted that he is putting his new skills to use having secured new employment at PORT Homes . The staff at the academy are very proud of what he has achieved. Hitting the milestone of supporting 400 learners into new employment is something myself and the staff at the Academy are very proud of, and we couldn’t be more thrilled that it was Chris.” – Donna King, Training Academy Manager, Seymour Skills Academy
“The Skills Academy being local is such a benefit to us, we have now employed our third learner from the Academy. They come to us with a great understanding of what is expected from them on site from all aspects, including health & safety, machinery and plant. It is a really good opportunity for anyone wanting to get into the industry.” – Grant Smith, Civils Site Manager, PORT Homes
