Image: Matthew Baker
Mathew Tunes into Extra Training
An innovative training scheme proved music to Mathew Baker's ears when he won an iPod.
Mathew Baker, who works on the Coneygre Industrial Estate in Tipton, was awarded the iPod by Connexions Black Country.
The warehouseman from Tipton, signed up for the LA-Life programme last year to get free training while at work as a warehouse man.
Set up by Connexions Black Country and the Learning and Skills Council, LA-Life provides free learning opportunities and specialist support to 16 and 17-year olds who are in work but not receiving any kind of training.
Mathew is currently working towards an Apprenticeship in NVQ Level 2 in logistics and warehousing with training provider TBG Learning who are based in Birmingham.
He said: "I've had a lot of support from my employer and I was given the time to do my Apprenticeship in NVQ Level 2. Being involved in the LA-Life scheme has increased my confidence. I know more about my job and I would like to move up to supervisor role. I might even do the next level up, I'm not sure yet. Winning the iPod in the prize draw was an added bonus."
Sue Pollard, his manager, said: "I am very pleased we got involved with the LA-Life scheme. Matthew has made great progress on the Learning Agreement Programme. It has been a gateway to getting him onto the Appenticeship for NVQ Level 2. Matthew has increased awareness of his job role and is getting on well, he has just passed his fork lift driving test."
LA-Life is one of eight Learning Agreement Pilots (LAP) running nationally until March 2008. It is a joint initiative between Black Country Learning and Skills Council and Connexions Black Country.
The pilot aims to equip young people with the skills and ability they need to do their jobs better and to help them achieve their lifestyle aspirations.
To find out more about LA- Life and the range of free training available in the Black Country call 0800 633 5780, visit www.la-life.co.uk or text LALIFE to 60999.
