Lavendon Access Services backs Work Experience Project
Released 24th Jun, 2009
Lavendon Access Services has seen its first work experience candidate successfully complete his placement. Paul Armstrong gained a 2 week insight into the day to day operations of the UK’s largest powered access rental business, along with practical and theoretical engineering experience.
Completing his stint at Lavendon Access Services’ Panther Luton depot, Paul, a student at Northfield Technology College found that his placement sparked an interest in powered access, and he is now looking at entering the industry as an apprentice: “I didn’t really know much about powered access, and had always aimed to work in the automotive industry. The engineering team at Panther Luton have taught me a lot over my two weeks here, and I aim to begin an apprenticeship at Lavendon Access Services once I’ve completed my studies.”
Lavendon Access Services approached The Bedfordshire and Luton Education Business Partnership, (best known as EBP), with the idea of a work experience programme.
EBP believes that partnerships between education and employers have a key role in meeting current and future challenges as
EBP’s Stewart Outen commented: “The strong links between businesses and education are much needed; these relationships aid vocational qualifications and professional development of staff, and the relationship we have begun with Lavendon Access Services is definitely one we look forward to continuing.”
Area Service Manager for Panther, Tim Williams added: “It is important to continue investing in young people in this economic climate, and also keep on introducing new skills. The apprenticeship scheme is a positive step and something I hope will only gain momentum across the company.”
In conjunction with EBP, the training arm of Lavendon Access Services – Lavendon Access Services Academy developed a ‘Work Experience – Challenge Workbook’ that Paul completed throughout his 2 weeks at Luton, answering questions on a variety of subjects he has covered. This gave Paul a specific focus on the important points surrounding engineering and powered access in general, such as maintenance, Health & Safety, housekeeping and care for the environment.
The Academy is responsible for all work experience, welcoming new employees to the company, and the ongoing development of over 1000 staff through a carefully designed suite of courses and projects.