Training provider Scientiam opens two new offices

Leading work based learning provider Scientiam is continuing its ambitious growth strategy by opening two new offices in Liverpool city centre and Runcorn this month.

Birkenhead based Scientiam’s turnover increased from £2.2m in 2006 to £3.3m in 2008 its highest level since founding in 2001, turnover for 2009 is set to exceed £5m. Scientiam managing director Mandi O’Shea said the office openings would catapult the not for profit business forward after it pumped £2.9m into the Merseyside economy over the last 18 months growing its workforce to 60.

“The two new offices will play a vital role in growing the business across the region,” she said. “Through the offices we aim help to workers under threat of redundancy and young people, who find themselves not in education, employment or training (NEET). Already in the last 18 months we have provided training to more than 1000 learners and 400 employers. We intend to build on that solid performance.”

Mrs O’Shea said Scientiam’s Liverpool city centre base will focus on its ‘Response to Redundancy’ programme targeting businesses making redundancies and individuals who have lost their job or are facing redundancy.

Staff at the Tithebarn Street office have already helped dozens of people and it is now appealing to companies whose workers are under notice of redundancy to contact it for free help and practical support.

The programme, funded by the Learning and Skills Council, provides services from skills training to job searches, career counselling and self-employment advice to people across Merseyside and to Warrington.

In Runcorn, Mrs O’Shea said Scientiam’s base atGrosvenor House, Halton Lea aims to partner businesses to provide work placements and apprenticeships for youngsters aged 16-18. This involves an accelerated work placement for up to 12 weeks, which can lead to full-time employment.

“We know the recession is hitting young people very hard with youth unemployment touching the million mark – the highest level since records began,” she said. “There is also a serious long-term problem with young people falling out of the education system. But that is where we can help. We can partner with local employers and help them recruit a 16-18 year old apprentice – for which there are clear business benefits. These include helping to establish a culture of achievement, innovation and success in your company. Employers have to meet the cost of the apprentice’s salary and Scientiam organise and fully subsidise the cost of their training - providing practical help and support for both the employer and the young person.

“Apprenticeships are a win-win for everybody involved. The apprentice gets a personalised learning programme that provides the skills and work experience they desperately need to kick-start their career. The employer has the chance to shape a young person into their company and develop existing staff skills at a low cost.”

Mrs O’Shea said Scientiam is also looking to partner with businesses around Halton wanting to improve their in-house skills training.

For further information on Scientiam’s services contact John.Watts@scientiam.co.uk or any member of the Scientiam team: 0151 650 1678.