GLASGOW Clyde College has launched the Bell Decorating Academy, in partnership with Bell Group, which will focus on supplementing the painting and decorating skills taught in the college with practical experience.
Students on the college’s NPA construction course, which provides introductory elements to safety, practical woodwork, fabrication and wet trade skills such as painting and decorating, will get the chance to gain work experience with Bell Group as well as access to potential apprenticeships.
The company will also work with students, delivering leadership talks, skills workshops and masterclasses. Glasgow Clyde College is the first college in the west of Scotland to offer the program.
The partnership aims to expand the potential of the progression routes from the NPA construction classes into employment.
A launch event was held at the college’s Anniesland campus, where the college was presented with a plaque to mark the partnership. Craig Bell, CEO of Bell Group, hosted a presentation and discussion with students about the opportunities available to them.
Jim Taylor, head of curriculum construction at Glasgow Clyde College said, “We’re delighted to be the only college in the west of Scotland teaming up with the Bell Group to offer our students an exceptional opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, work experience and the chance at an apprenticeship with the company.
“This will ensure our students are equipped and fully qualified to progress into the world of work following their time at the college.”
Anna Higham, Bell Group’s national community investment manager added, “We believe the academy will help close the gap between learning the theory of a trade and working on site, and will better prepare young people for the world of work. By working together, we hope our academies will prove successful in cultivating our next generation of employees.”
