2 minute read
CAV’S COLUMN
ROY CAVANAGH MBE
COLUMN CAV’S
“A champion of training for young people.” Roy Cavanagh MBE has remained with the major contractor, Seddon, for over 50 years. He received an MBE for his services to construction and is renowned for his efforts in campaigning for apprenticeships and training for young people across Salford and the UK. Roy is passionate about anything Salfordian as he was born and raised in the city and has lived in Ordsall, Little Hulton and Worsley.
INCREASING APPRENTICESHIP NUMBERS IN SALFORD
When you look back at the fantastic progress Apprenticeships at Salford City College have made over the past ten years it is remarkable. Starting with 10 apprentices, to now, nearly 1,500, it shows what can be done if you put thought, desire and determination into something.
There is significant funding available for companies to take on apprentices and get them qualified. If, for some reason, you are unaware of grants and levies, please contact Apprenticeships at Salford City College. Through their advisors you can find out how your company could afford to give a young person that first step on the ladder of an apprenticeship.
CHAMPIONS GROUP
Last October the college reformed their ‘Champions Group’. The group comprises of leading companies and organisations in different trades and occupations who come together and discuss apprenticeship developments.
I was very proud to be asked to continue as the Independent Chair of this group. Louise Jones, Senior Apprenticeship Levy Consultant, and the rest of the apprenticeship team have implemented even more innovative ways of making the group work together as a partnership.
These sorts of frank and thoughtful discussions, can only help everyone improve the already fantastic delivery provided by the college. If your company wants to join these meetings then please contact the apprenticeship team.
INNOVATIVE IDEAS FROM THE COLLEGE TO HELP SENIOR MANAGEMENT
There is more and more emphasis now on upskilling existing employees, as well as taking on apprentices. Seddon, along with Apprenticeships at Salford City College, wanted a Project Manager programme to suit their needs and those of their selected employees. The course supports their personal and professional development within the business.
The course covers areas such as teamwork, communications, leadership and quality management as well as enabling candidates to become members of the Association of Project Management (APM), which is a nationally recognised. The skills learned by Seddon employees have been already been noticed by people who work alongside them and a lot of this is down to the hands-on approach offered by the college.
To date 40 employees have been on the course and the cohorts are exceeding the national success rate.
And finally, it’s always nice to reflect on the past, but even better to look forward to the future. The last decade shows how much can really be achieved. I am personally looking forward to the next decade and seeing all that comes from Apprenticeships at Salford City College.
