Skills for Security (SfS) has opened its seventh training site nationwide. The new facility, in Doncaster, South Yorkshire has welcomed its first fire and security apprentices on site. The centre has been renovated to create a modern and practical learning environment, SfS says, with updated resources and facilities for apprentices in the fire and security sector.
Purpose-built classrooms and workshop areas mirror real-world working conditions, giving learners the experience needed to progress into the workforce, the skills body adds.
David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, said: “With seven centres now in place, we are better positioned to deliver high-quality training at scale, reaching more apprentices and employers across the UK. Establishing this centre creates new local opportunities for people to enter the industry and helps employers tackle the skills shortage head-on, providing the skilled workforce the sector urgently needs.”
Regions
Skills’s network already includes centres in Warrington, Birmingham, Watford, Dagenham, Bristol and Glasgow. It says it’s bringing regional access to training, reducing travel requirements for employers and learners, and boosting the sector’s overall training capacity. Doncaster has already started delivering programmes for apprentices at the beginning of their careers in fire and security, as well as supporting employers who are looking to upskill their workforce.
David added: “The launch comes at a critical time for the industry. The shortage of qualified engineers remains one of the most pressing challenges facing fire and security businesses, with demand for skilled professionals continuing to exceed supply. Addressing this skills gap is at the core of Skills for Security’s mission, with investment in new centres such as Doncaster and more to follow. We will continue to develop environments and programmes that ensure a sustainable pipeline of talent.”
