Paul Jeyes, a former personal trainer and gym manager, found himself unemployed during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, a friend at EG Swingler and Sons Ltd offered him a job as a roof slater and tiler, despite having no previous qualifications or experience in roofing. Eager to learn and improve his skills, Paul engaged with the Skills Support for the Workforce (SSW) programme to gain a qualification in roofing occupations.
Training Intervention and Impact
Thanks to the SSW programme, Paul was able to start a Level 2 NVQ diploma in Roofing Occupations – Roof Slater and Tiler, delivered by his assessor Jimmy Kelly. The training was completed through on-site assessments, allowing Jimmy to provide tailored support to Paul and observe his skills on the job.
Upon completion of the NVQ, Paul will be able to demonstrate to his current employers and colleagues that he is a skilled roof slater and tiler and will have confidence in his own knowledge and skills. He hopes that it will give him more opportunities to progress and would like to be given some supervisory opportunities in the future. Furthermore, Paul is now interested in completing a Level 3 NVQ in Roofing Qualifications, giving him a wider knowledge of roofing skills, and an NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision.
Paul commented, “I now have the confidence to show others that I am a skilled roof slater and tiler. The NVQ has given me the knowledge and proof that I have the ability to do my job well.” He also noted that his assessor, Jimmy, was great to work with, providing tailored support and observing his skills on the job, which helped him learn and improve.
Best Use of Funding and Inspiration to Others
Paul’s case study demonstrates the best use of funding under Priority 2.1 Enhancing equal access to lifelong learning. It highlights the positive impact that upskilling can have on individuals and businesses, as well as serves as an inspiration to others looking to improve their skills and progress in their careers.
Overall, the SSW programme has provided Paul with the skills and qualifications he needed to achieve his goal of gaining a qualification in roofing occupations, enhancing his personal and professional development.
