Trainees on track for tram careers

Intraining based at Prudential House in Topping Street has delivered employability support and training for the past four years, providing guidance for those looking to enter or return to the labour market.

Its offer has been expanded to meet a wider variety of need within the community and it now delivers Traineeships for 16 -24 year olds.

That traineeship model was adapted to help Blackpool Transport target specific needs and used by six trainee conductors to secure positions on the trams.

Rob Garside, Intraining Business manager, said: “Blackpool councillor Paul Galley, who was attending an open event at the centre and was impressed with the facilities and the offer available, advised us that he was a member of the Board of Directors with Blackpool Transport and believed we could work together.

“The course offer consisted of customer service skill development tailored to the specific job role with maths and English for those who needed to upskill, as Blackpool Transport were particularly keen for potential employees to acquire and develop suitable skill sets.

“The training took place within the Intraining offices with the full support of Blackpool Transport who provided learners with opportunities to access existing staff members for research purposes and guidance for interview expectations and hands on experience.

“This proved to be a successful pre-employment course for all involved which was only possible thanks to the commitment of the team at Blackpool Transport and the professionalism of the team at Intraining.

“It has been very rewarding to see the transformation in individuals who have secured employment and for the team to contribute to changing lives in the community.”

Intraining has further adapted the model for the car sector with a further course this month for Comfort Call.

It is holding another open day on July 1 from 10am to 4pm.

One of the trainees James Ortton said: “My personal experience at Intraining is a very positive one and I would advise anyone seeking employment, qualifications or just some advice to contact the centre. I am excited to start work at Blackpool Transport and would like to say a big thank-you to everyone at the centre who has made this opportunity achievable for me.”

Jane Cole, chief executive at Blackpool Transport said: “I am delighted that young people who live in Blackpool have been given the chance to work at Blackpool Transport through Intraining. It is great to see young people taking a pride in wanting to work for their local transport provider and enjoy being with customers on the trams.”