Toyota crowned britain's best training partner
The award recognised Toyota Manufacturing UK's training partnership activity with local partners including YMCA Derbyshire and SME's (automotive and non-automotive) including Gestamp Tallent and Pektron Group Ltd.The awards evening championed the positive work that manufacturers within the engineering industry are undertaking to upskill the UK's workforce. Shortlisted to the last three in the country, Toyota won over tough competition to lift the award in partnership with our SME's and community organisations.
Tim Freeman, Director of Environment, Quality and Production Functions for Toyota Manufacturing UK said, "We are committed to the development of people by supporting the local community, SME's, local supplier partners as well as our own staff. Through this approach we can contribute to developing the skills of the local economy and the manufacturing and engineering sector."
A fully managed apprenticeship programme was introduced in 2013 including attraction, recruitment and training delivery. The programme takes place on-site at Toyota's vehicle manufacturing plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire in the 'Apprentice Development Centre' which is run in partnership with Burton & South Derbyshire College. Currently 13 companies send their Apprentices to train at Toyota.Phil Carr Training and Development Manager of Gestamp Tallent Ltd, commented "We've been a business partner with Toyota for many years and the relationship has always been one of support rather than demand. This approach has now been extended into the growth of our Engineering capability with the Apprentice training. Toyota has given us access to a world class scheme that is based on the traditional values of a good Apprenticeship".Following the award, Ann Watson, CEO of Semta said, "Toyota is a world class company which is reflected in its superb training programme and facilities. They are helping create the engineers of the future — so vital if the UK is to continue to deliver the skills which make our engineers the best in the world".
The YMCA Derbyshire has worked with Toyota to support local disadvantaged young people. In partnership with SMMT and the Foyer Federation, Toyota delivers a 12 week programme to support young disadvantaged adults "NEET's". The programme enhances their future prospects of work or further education.Gillian Sewell, CEO of YMCA Derbyshire said, "Each day as CEO of YMCA, I recognise Toyota's contribution and achievements for YMCA residents. On completing the designed training it is evident our residents have increased self-esteem, purpose and improved life chances. Toyota not only say they care about their locally community they work to prove it"For more information please contact Helen Hydes on 01332 283666