Inspire Education Group and Lincoln College have secured funding from Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership to support a fully funded HGV training programme.
Inspire Education Group and Lincoln College will work in partnership with the Road Haulage Association (RHA) to deliver a new Drive 2 Work initiative. The programme will provide opportunities to engage 60 learners, and support them through the medical, theory and practical driving tests along with preparation for employment.
The hugely successful HGV Training programme was developed by Inspire Education Group and funded by Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) to combat national driver shortages and open a sustainable career pathway for individuals in Peterborough. Following the success of the training, a joint bid was made to the Labour Market Growth Fund with GLLEP and the funding was secured to deliver to Lincolnshire residents
The logistics sector is fundamental to the Greater Lincolnshire area. The flexible and inclusive programme ensures a range of learning opportunities, including; face-to-face, online and blended learning that is employer-led with a focus on how the logistics industry can be more environmentally and sustainably aware.
Inspire Education Group and Lincoln College will create a pipeline of job-ready, experienced candidates to local businesses.
It is recognised that there are persistent barriers as the cost of both training and testing can be prohibitive – the initiative will be a launchpad for those wanting to gain their HGV licences.
Alison Fox, Executive Director of Business Development from Inspire Education Group, said: “In response to the national and local shortage of HGV drivers, the Inspire Education Group are delighted to support the delivery of the Drive 2 Work programme.
“I appreciate the funding provided by GLLEP and look forward to working with Lincoln College and the Road Haulage Association to offer opportunities to train and support learners to obtain their HGV licence and secure local employment.
“Following on the success of the programme in Peterborough, it is fantastic that we are expanding the offering across Lincolnshire to support the training of highly-skilled drivers and meet the skills gaps of local employers.”
Mark Taylor, RHA Head of Training & Sales, England & Wales, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Lincoln College to help recruit and train new HGV drivers.
“This programme will offer local people the chance to kick start a highly skilled career for themselves in our industry.
“Tackling the HGV driver shortage is a tough challenge but it’s one of our top priorities. We’re looking forward to helping local firms get new people behind the wheel.”
To express an interest in joining the driver training course click here, and our team will contact you to progress your application.