Free welding course sparks interest

Twelve free places are available on a six-week welding course, organised by New East Manchester, with opportunities for permanent employment for students who successfully complete the training.

The course is open to anyone aged 18 or over who is interested in a career in welding and no previous experience or skills are required. Starting on 25 February training will take place each morning five days per week at Manchester College of Arts and Technology (MANCAT) Openshaw campus.

The course has been set up by east Manchester based Steel fabrication company Thomas Storey, working with Work Solutions and MANCAT, to meet the

Eddie Smith, Acting Chief Executive of New East Manchester, said: "There is currently a real shortage of skilled welders in Manchester so this is an excellent chance for someone to learn a new skill with great prospects at the end."

Jo Lynch, HR and Safety Manager for Thomas Storey, said: "Although welding can be quite physically demanding, it is also very rewarding and experienced welders can earn a basic wage of up to £11 per hour. Additionally the skills learnt for welding can be used to progress your career in many different areas of engineering; it opens up so many opportunities."

Lester Farrelly, Divisional Leader for Plumbing and Heating Ventilation for MANCAT said: "This course was designed to meet our customers' needs and was a great success, with many candidates going on to full employment within the industry, bridging the skills shortage."

For more information on the course or for an application pack call MANCAT on 0800 920 2207. All applications must be submitted by 18 February and the course starts on 23 February.

Media contact:

Michael Travers. tel: 0161 223 1155