• Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

North East Connected

Hopping Across The North East From Hub To Hub

NCT Skills For Life JEF-CEP learners recently visited HMS Calliope, the Royal Navy Reserve Training Unit based at Gateshead Quayside, for an insight into careers within the Reserve Forces.

The site has recently re-opened after a £3.1 million upgrade to become a major hub for Reserve Forces in the region and JEF-CEP learners were invited for a tour of the premises, as well as the opportunity to learn more about career and training opportunities within the organisation.

The visitors were given an exclusive tour of the site’s facilities, which include a new state-of-the-art fitness suite, climbing wall, boat store, improved classrooms and new office facilities, before taking part in a question and answer session with an expert Reserve Forces career advisor.

The JEF-CEP initiative is a pre-apprenticeship training programme specifically designed for school leavers, formed in conjunction with the Armed Forces.  Learners obtain a taster of work in Roofing, Joinery, Bricklaying and Plastering, plus the chance to experience life in the Armed Forces and develop transferable skills, all of which helps prepare them for the world of work.

Patricia Wilkinson, NCT Skills For Life Managing Director, said: “It was a real honour for our learners to be invited to HMS Calliope and to benefit from the experience and guidance of Royal Navy Reserve Careers Advisor.  Our partnership with the Armed Forces is invaluable in helping the young people on JEF-CEP with their transition from learner to employee in their chosen career in the Construction Industry or the Armed Forces.”

Lt Cdr David King, Royal Navy Staff Officer at HMS Calliope, added: “HMS Calliope is very pleased to host so many young people with an interest in the Armed Forces.  The Royal Navy’s recent investment reaffirms our commitment to Tyneside and also our desire to attract the best talent in the region to be part of the Maritime Reserve.”

Any person who would like to find out more about the Royal Naval Reserve is very welcome visit the Unit at Gateshead Quayside – a recruitment evening takes place on the second Wednesday of every month at 7pm.

For more information on NCT Skills for Life’s JEF-CEP programme or the latest recruitment information for Apprenticeships in Bricklaying, Plastering, Roofing and Joinery, please visit www.nctskills.com