CPA launches new apprenticeship scheme

The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has launched a new apprenticeship scheme to attract recruits to the construction equipment industry and to upskill existing staff. 

The Hire Controller Trailblazer Apprenticeship programme aims to provide candidates with the technical knowledge and skill sets required for the duties of a Hire Controller. The programme will take between 12 and 18 months to complete, with 20% of that time devoted to ‘off-the-job’ training.

Both the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and Hire Association Europe (HAE) helped to develop the programme, which is also supported by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

The programme was developed and set up by the employer-led Trailblazer Working Group, which comprised representatives from companies such as A-Plant, AP Webb, Ainscough Cranes, Camfauds, Clee hill Plant, GAP Group, Lavendon, MGF, Nationwide, Selwood and Speedy Services.

Establishing a standard for the occupation, the group defined the required duties of a Hire Controller for the training syllabus.

Also incorporated into the course are key skills such as forming positive relationships with customers, working both within a team and independently, developing a ‘Health and Safety-first attitude’, being self-motivated to meet operational targets, remaining respectful of equality and diversity, and remaining committed to continual personal and professional development.

The UK’s Institute for Apprenticeships (IfA) has placed the programme within a funding band that equates to £5,000 (€5,500), which can be spent or claimed by employers (subject to funding rules) for apprenticeship levy and non-levy paying organisations.

The Hire Controller Trailblazer Apprenticeship is recognised and accepted by all primary trade bodies and industry federations in the rental sector. Members of the CPA, IPAF and HAE will all be able to make use of the new pathway into the equipment and powered access rental industry.