News And Events

Employers! The Best of Rochdale will be celebrated at the Rochdale Business Awards 2024 later this year. Time is running out to nominate with a deadline for entries of Friday 30th August.

This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate your success and of course our brilliant Rochdale Borough #thisisrochdale

The nine categories this year are:

1. Business of the Year - Turnover more than £5m
2. Business of the Year - Turnover less than £1m - £5m
3. Business of the Year - Turnover less than £1m
4. Business Person of the Year
5. New Business of the Year
6. Apprentice of the Year
7. Apprentice Employer of the Year
8. Community Engagement
9. Independent Hospitality or Retail Business of the Year

Businesses can enter as many categories as they want through the website www.rochdalebusinessawards.co.uk

Good luck everyone. We know you and your workforce are great, let's tell everyone else how good you are!

Rochdale Training

Rochdale Training has recently been working in partnership with the team at GMLPN to improve the delivery of maths training for residents. Funding has been made possible by the team at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to support the further education sector. The Multiply Provider Support Programme aims to support Further Education (FE) Providers to deliver high-quality and appropriate maths skills across Greater Manchester.                         

What support has Rachdale Training recieved from the Multiply Provider Support programme?

Rochdale Training has received support from the programme in more than one way. Initially, we joined the specific subject matter courses and due to our staff numbers, we received this training either in-house or remotely, which allowed other colleagues to attend a local centre if they could not travel to a location further away. We then secured funding through GMLPN for a dedicated consultant to work with us and tailor a CPD programme specific to our tutor’s needs, which was delivered over two full days.

What have been the benefits for your staff?         

                                                                                                          
Depending on where each staff member was in their teaching journey, some found the subject matter courses more beneficial than others as they learnt different strategies to be able to deliver maths to their learners. All tutors valued the two-day consultant training as our consultant listened to the tutor’s concerns around delivering maths to our learners and tailored the programme to their needs; this has given the staff the confidence not only in their own maths knowledge but new strategies to deliver and help their learners with maths.

What has been the impact on your apprentices?     

                                                                                                     
Apprentices are receiving training from tutors who have more confidence in their ability to deliver maths which would not have been possible without the Multiply Provider Support Programme. We have seen an increase in maths first-time pass rates, which is excellent.

What has been the biggest bennefit for Rochdale Training? 

By investing in maths teacher training through the Multiply Provider Support Programme, we have cultivated a strong educational environment that benefits learners, tutors and the community as a whole. This investment not only enhances immediate outcomes but also fosters long-term growth and success. We have seen higher achievement rates, enhanced tutor confidence in teaching maths and them using new pedagogical methods and received dedicated maths professional development for tutors.

Top tip for other providers:     

                                                                                                                                          
Invest the time in releasing your tutors to attend the sessions available through the programme; they are invaluable. The consultants will give your tutors the confidence to deliver maths in a simplified way and contextualise the subject matter to the vocational area of the apprentice to make maths more enjoyable.

If you would like to improve your Maths or English through our courses, contact:

recruitment@rochdaletraining.co.uk or call 01706 631417

For further information, please follow this link; Functional Skills | Rochdale Training

Rochdale Training recently embarked on a challenging 12-mile walk to raise funds for Derian House Children’s Hospice. The route, which spanned from Hebden Bridge to Littleborough, included gruelling 30% inclines at various points, putting both their physical endurance and determination to the test.

The team set off early in the morning from Hebden Bridge. The route was scenic but demanding, with steep inclines that tested even the fittest among them. Despite the physical challenges, the team encouraged each other, maintained a positive attitude, and enjoyed the camaraderie that such an event fosters.

Derian House provides invaluable respite and end-of-life care for seriously ill babies, children, and young people across the North West. Their work offers comfort and support to families during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Kerry Salmon from Derian House expressed her heartfelt gratitude, saying, “This is amazing! Thank you so much and well done for completing it!” The funds raised will directly support the hospice’s ongoing efforts to provide exceptional care and support to those in need.

Congratulations to everyone involved in the walk, and a special thank you to Chloe, Ryan, and Vicki for their exceptional fundraising efforts. In recognition of their outstanding fundraising efforts, the top three contributors—Chloe, Ryan, and Vicki—were rewarded with a well-deserved free day off work.

Mark Whittaker, Marketing Manager at Rochdale Training said ”The success of this charity walk is a testament to what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. Rochdale Training is incredibly proud of their employees and extends its gratitude to everyone who supported the event. The funds raised for Derian House will have a lasting impact, providing much-needed care and support to children and their families. Following the success of this event, Rochdale Training is already looking forward to our next fundraising project.  

We are proud to share that our Apprentice, Ellie Burke is this year's Apprentice of the Year!

The award recongises exceptional apprentices for their work, either within their apprenticeship workplace or in relation to their classroom-based learning.

Hear about Ellie’s incredible apprenticeship journey so far and see the emotional moment she won the Apprentice of the Year award in this video. You can also read her story.

https://www.ncfe.org.uk/.../aspiration-awards/2024-winners/

Good luck to all learners who are through to the qualifiers stage. Today, Rochdale Training hosted with several local Welding Apprentices.  A special shout out to Alex Humphries, Jake from C-Capture Limited, Casey from Altrad Employment Services Ltd, Rhys from Specialist Metal Fabrications Ltd.

The competitions are a seven-month process, which includes regional heats and intensive training, before the ultimate test of the national finals, where finalists and medallists will be celebrated at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall.

#LincolnElectricUK #AirProducts #EngEPA #RochdaleTraining  #skillweld #worldskillsuk #thisisrochdale #Welding #Employed #UpskillYourWorkforce #GreaterManchesterCombinedAuthority #GMLPN #CCaptureLtd #Altrademploymentservices #specialistmetalfabrications

Do you employ people who would benefit from training in Maintenance or Welding? Then join us at Rochdale Training today for our fast-track course worth £3,500!

Skills Bootcamps are flexible courses that help people aged 19 or older gain the necessary skills to progress in a job, in sectors where there is a shortage of skilled workers.

Who can take part in a Skills Bootcamp? 

Those already in a job can participate in these Bootcamps to develop their skillset.

If you’re interested, ask your employer about taking part in a Bootcamp – they’ll be able to help you decide if it’s something that could benefit you in work and if they would be happy for you to train and gain an accredited qualification.

How can Skills Bootcamps benefit employers? 

Skills Bootcamps help employers by training existing employees with the necessary skills for business growth. This course has helped employers retain staff, improve productivity and develop a trained workforce.

Above: Carl from Chandley Ovens Ltd

Carl, an employee at Chandley Ovens Ltd said “This was a great practical course to learn new skills. I was mentored by a tutor at every step. It has allowed me to take extra responsibilities and extra pay! I would recommend this fast-track course to others.”

Andrew, H&S Manager at Chandley Ovens Ltd said “I'm delighted to say our employees are now better equipped to take on extra welding responsibilities, which will benefit our company. The training was well-structured, and the training was delivered in a way that was both engaging and informative. Overall, I am extremely impressed with the welding course you provided. Your training organisation has demonstrated a commitment to excellence, and I would not hesitate to recommend your courses to anyone.

What’s on Offer?

Welding (Option 1)

A bespoke programme designed for those in the Welding & Fabrication industry

• Understanding and interpreting Engineering information
• Engineering materials
• Welding processes including MIG or TIG
• Safe use of power tools in a workshop environment
• H&S awareness
• Understanding welding consumables
• Completing welds in various positions and joints

Follow the link for further information  Greater Manchester Skills Bootcamp in Welding | Rochdale Training

Maintenance (Option 2)

A bespoke programme designed for those preparing to work in the Maintenance industry

This course includes two pathways, Mechanical or Electrical Maintenance, both courses include:

• Impact of maintenance planning on production
• Different types of maintenance
• Maintenance of gears and valves
• Advanced fault-finding techniques
• Using maintenance to improve efficiency
• Cost Vs benefits of advanced maintenance
• Benefits of maintenance programmes to organisations

Follow the link for further information  Greater Manchester Skills Bootcamp in Maintenance | Rochdale Training

When: Starting in June   

The training is delivered over 12 weeks (1 day per week)

Where: Rochdale Training, Fishwick Street, Rochdale, OL165NA

Register now by contacting Lisa Agnew on 01706631417 or lagnew@rochdaletraining.co.uk

Rochdale Training’s Apprentice Employer, A&F Sprinklers is celebrating having won Apprentice Employer of the Year at this year's Rochdale Business Awards. The Awards were established in 2011 to celebrate and recognise the success and achievements of local businesses and business people within Rochdale.

A&F Sprinklers design, install, and service & maintain automatic fire sprinkler systems nationwide, we operate from Rochdale and provide services 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They partner with a wide range of customers from individual businesses to large corporate enterprises such as Amazon, the Ministry of Defence, Clipper, and many more. Their team is a total of 142 ranging from trainees, designers, project managers, support, and engineers.

Luke Heywood, Previous Apprentice said, “My Apprenticeship course was a 2-year course in Performing Engineering Operations, this Apprenticeship course gained me a full level 2 Apprenticeship qualification, overall the support I have received from Rochdale Training and A&F Sprinklers is fantastic and inspires me to achieve more, keep learning, and develop each day. I couldn’t be more thankful for the company.”

All A&F Apprentices are guided through their development plan process whereby A&F maps their development, progression, and learning, not only through their qualification but includes in-house specific training, & and industry training. Apprentices are given the mantra of ‘every day is a school day’ whereby A&F inspires them to continue and keep learning which is assessed through their round table events.

Dan Clayton, HR Manager from A&F Sprinklers said, “To say we are humbled and proud is an understatement. I genuinely don't think there are many words for the pride we feel at the moment. Just to be nominated was a milestone, then to be a finalist was another but to win Apprentice Employer of the Year, is a massive achievement for the team here. But, everything we do cannot and will not have been achieved and continue to be achieved without the fantastic and second-to-none support from you and everyone at RTA.”

Nathan Finn, Recruitment Officer at Rochdale Training said, “I’ve been working with Dan & A&F Sprinklers for several years, and it’s a pleasure to see their hard work and dedication to Apprenticeships being highlighted.  Congratulations to the whole team at A&F. A&F Sprinklers recruit several Apprentices every year and I would certainly recommend candidates to apply for opportunities when they become available”.

Interested in applying for Apprenticeships? Look through our current apprenticeship vacancies – https://www.rochdaletraining.co.uk/apprenticeships or contact our Recruitment Team now at 01706 631 417 or recruitment@rochdaletraining.co.uk

Harvey started with Rochdale Training on the Future Apprenticeship Foundation in February 2023.

The course supported him in getting ready for an Apprenticeship while allowing him to gain valuable work experience in a sector he’s interested in, while also improving his employability skills, English and Maths.

Harvey developed his skills and confidence after a short period and started his work placement with Rochdale Council in the Work and Skills team. His placement employer, Amanda Huntbach from Rochdale Council said “Harvey is a wonderful young man and has a bright future ahead of him. He is always on time, normally early, very reliable and able to follow instructions and undertake tasks with little supervision. He has excellent computer skills, is organised, and can prioritise. He looks very professional and comes across in a polite and professional manner.”

Harvey said “It was a brilliant course. The experience confirmed this was the sector for me and I was eager to apply for administration positions after my work placement. The support from the tutors and the staff is outstanding, everyone at Rochdale Training creates a safe and friendly environment, and I am comfortable here. I have now progressed on to a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship with Rochdale Training and work as a Technical Support Officer in the Revenue and Benefits department of Rochdale Borough Council.

Being on the Future Apprenticeship Foundation not only allowed me to develop workplace skills but also life skills. I would recommend this course to others who need support and struggling to figure out what to do in life.”

Habiba Khatoon, Work Experience Co-Ordinator from Rochdale Council said “We are pleased we have been able to accommodate the work placement. Harvey was able to spend time working within our organisation before applying for an Apprenticeship role with us. Congratulations Harvey!”

Are you feeling lost and need some help like Harvey? We can help with start dates in January 2024 in both Rochdale and Bury! For more information about our Future Apprenticeship Foundation and Apprenticeships please contact Nathan Finn on 01706 631417 or nfinn@rochdaletraining.co.uk.

Rochdale Training Apprentice, Ellie Burke is celebrating having won Apprentice of the Year at this year's Rochdale Business Awards.

The Awards were established in 2011 to celebrate and recognise the success and achievements of local businesses and business people within Rochdale.

Ellie works at Gateway Leisure supporting people with learning disabilities and now making positive changes to young adults with mental and physical health needs.

Rochdale Training, tutor, Roxanne Sharpe said “Ellie is one of the best Apprentices I have ever met. Ellie has been on a tough journey over the previous 12 months and was introduced to us by the Youth Hub having completed a 12-week course with the Princes Trust team in Rochdale. She has been determined to progress and focused on the future and a career path to help others in the health and social sector. Ellie is the future of this business and sector.

Ellie is progressing rapidly through the Health and Social Care Apprenticeship and is often ahead of her peers, meeting deadlines and producing high-quality assignments for her Apprenticeship. She attends all off-the-job training and records and measures her performance against the key criteria of the apprenticeship. She has remained consistently inquisitive and is not afraid to challenge something or make suggestions to improve something.”

Project Co-ordinator at Gateway Leisure, Lisa Stockton said “Ellie has 100% attendance and punctuality. She represents Gateway well whilst out in the community. She has recently helped to engage service users to participate in some new and ongoing activities – which is doing well. Ellie's confidence has grown a lot in the months she has been with us. She uses her own initiative, helping with tasks i.e., assisting service users with PEG feeds, and helping support people with transport. Ellie is always keen to learn new things, more confident, and willing to take on additional tasks. Ellie is getting on with the online training and does not need reminding to do so.  Ellie is well on track with her qualifications and is meeting deadlines with her work. Ellie demonstrates leadership, and creativity and looks for solutions to problems. Her positive impact on people and the Gateway business over a short period has been outstanding and this is why she is our Apprentice of the Year.”

Charlie Stansfield and Niki Wiehler from Rochdale Youth Hub are proud to have supported Ellie on her journey to Apprentice of the Year. She is an inspiration to other young people and her achievements are amazing, Congratulations Ellie.

Apprenticeships help shape successful lives and build successful businesses across a large and diverse range of sectors. If you would like further information on recruiting an Apprentice, email Mark Whittaker at mwhittaker@rochdaletraining.co.uk

Employment Success with NHS Work Academy!

Rochdale Training is celebrating the success of its Sector Based Work Academy in partnership with the NHS. The course is focussed on becoming part of a customer service/administration team within the NHS, offering excellent customer service to patients with a friendly face, and assisting patients with queries or appointments.

In partnership with, HMR Primary Care and Rochdale Job Centre Plus, the course has supported 30 residents and 13 have moved into full-time employment.

Ruth Parton, Pre-employment lead from HMR Primary Care Academy said: “We choose to run Sector Based Work Academies as it’s a great way to attract new staff to Primary Care and a rewarding career in the NHS. The calibre of learners demonstrates that our selection process for the training is effective. Everyone on our courses has a willingness to learn and it’s a privilege to support people on their career journey.”

All learners were offered an interview and we have had 13 people progress onto employment with HMR Primary Care Academy and have started work in NHS settings around Greater Manchester. In-work training will include the level 2 Customer Service qualification with Rochdale Training.

Kelsey Hardman from Rochdale Job Centre Plus said “One of our main priorities is ensuring we are connecting local people to local jobs. DWP want to ensure that local people have the skills to meet demand and have access to opportunities available through Sector Based Work Academies. This is a fantastic result and it’s great to see so many people moving into employment through our strong partnership with Rochdale Training and HMR Primary Care Academy. We are extremely proud of the results achieved here and the dedication and commitment from the learners have been phenomenal, as well as watching them on this journey with such a rewarding outcome”

Vicky Burgess, Work and Skills Officer at Rochdale Borough Council said: “Working with local training providers who understand local needs and local businesses supports local people to move into local jobs. Working collaboratively brings results. RTA are exactly this and the results are great”

Learners from the Sector Based Work Academy said: “I started a Sector Based Work Academy because of the chance of employment at the end of the course through the interviews set up with local GP surgeries. Rochdale Training has been amazing in helping me get back into work – thank you.” Another learner said “I suffer with zero self-confidence and have struggled to get back into work. On countless occasions, I would get to the interview stage but not get the job. This forced me to reflect and take baby steps in order to become more confident in my approach. When I found out about this job and thought to apply I immediately found there was lots of support and help from the academy staff which reflected positivity and made me believe in myself and my abilities.”

This training has been made possible thanks to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, helping everybody gain skills for life and giving people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills and fast-track to an interview with an employer.