Thursday 23 July 2009
Horseshoe Suite, Haydock Park Racecourse
1.30pm – 4.30pm

You are invited to attend an event specifically designed for North West Housing Associations. The event is being hosted by the new National Apprenticeship Service, with the North West Employers Organisati. It will focus on how Apprenticeships can benefit your organisation and the support and help available to employers.

Speakers include:

• Sue Price – North West Regional Director, National Apprenticeship Service
  An introduction to the National Apprenticeship Service, the benefits for employers in employing apprentices, apprenticeship opportunities available through public sector funding and the Skills Pledge.
• Pete Owen – Town Hall Learning Centre Manager, Manchester City Council
  Matching skill needs to Apprenticeship opportunities and the challenge for the Public Sector and Public/Private Sector Organisations.
• Ashley Crumbley – Chief Executive, Wigan and Leigh Housing Association
  Employing Apprentices - the journey so far.

Delegates will also be able to attend two workshops of their choice from:

• Defining Skills for Housing Associations – This workshop will investigate what specific skill gaps exist for Housing Associations in their current and future workforce, how these needs can be tackled through Apprenticeships and identifying and overcoming any barriers. (National Apprenticeship Service and North West Employer Organisation)
• Using Public Procurement to Promote Skill Development – The Government procure over £170 billion of activity each year, a large proportion of which is directed at housing renewal and regeneration. This workshop will outline the policy context that Housing Associations and Local Authorities operate in and how public procurement can be used to influence the uptake of Apprenticeships. (National Apprenticeship Service, Herbert T Forrest Ltd and Manchester City Council)
• The Wigan and Leigh Experience – This workshop will provide a detailed look at developing and delivering Apprenticeships in Housing Associations. Including discussions around good practice, barriers faced and benefits for the organisation. (National Apprenticeship Service, Wigan and Leigh Housing Association and Proco Ltd)

To book your place please email Rachele.ellis@lsc.gov.uk by the 16th July to confirm your attendance.

For further information please contact Steve Astington on steve.astington@lsc.gov.uk or 0779 986 1425