CETAD Wins European Boost for £1 Million Training Programme

CETAD has been awarded funding of over £400,000 which will enable them to deliver training programmes valued at almost £1 million to local people and organisations across Lancashire and Cumbria.

CETAD is a dedicated department within Lancaster University specialising in work based learning for individuals and organisations and has built up an excellent track record in delivering programmes across the North West. CETAD is committed to breaking down the barriers that can sometimes make it difficult for people to engage in learning by offering locally based programmes, tailored to specific needs. All programmes lead to NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) and Lancaster University Certificates.

The funding has been awarded by Government Office North West from the Objective 3 European Social Fund. Match-funding by Lancaster University and from private sources will boost the £400,000 grant to almost £1 million, and enable CETAD to deliver a range of training programmes including early years, playwork, management, tourism and programmes for the community/voluntary sector.

CETAD, which also operates in Dumfries and Galloway, now awaits news of the Scottish round of bids, expected by mid-November.

'We are absolutely delighted at this news. The funding will enable us to deliver tailored training programmes which we have developed in response to the needs of local people, businesses and community/voluntary groups' said Jane O'Brien, Director at CETAD.

CETAD has worked closely with a range of organisations and individuals in Lancashire and Cumbria, with the assistance of ESF funding.

Three managers from VVV Health & Leisure, of Hest Bank, Lancaster have improved their skills following their success in completing NVQs in Management with CETAD. General Manager, Julie Muckle says, 'With the growth of the business, we were looking to improve the skills and knowledge of our managers but needed a programme which could be flexible. CETAD's Management Development course has been excellent. We have been able to work at our own pace and the programme has given us the opportunity to take a step back from the business and think on a more strategic level. This has improved our performance as individuals and is helping us drive the company towards achieving its future goals.'