The UK’s leading floorcoverings distributor, Headlam Group, is delighted to announce it has completed its first ever trainee fitter programme. Lasting six-months, the pilot programme saw four young people from the Leeds area successfully complete in-depth training to learn the skills of the flooring trade.
The trainee fitter programme, launched by Headlam to help tackle the growing shortage of fitters in the UK by investing in future skills supply, involved collaborating with seven of Headlam’s suppliers to develop a comprehensive training programme, providing the trainees with both theory and practical application to prepare them for a future career in the flooring industry, with one trainee already securing a job with a flooring company.
As part of the programme, the trainees also provided their newly learned skills to support the local Leeds community through Headlam’s ongoing partnership with Noah’s Ark Centre. The partnership sees Headlam’s Mercado Leeds donate surplus carpet to those in social housing who cannot afford to replace carpet or flooring that has been removed from their homes prior to moving in, per social housing policy. The trainees fitted the carpets free of charge, helping those in need while also developing their practical on-the-job skills.
John Clark, Transformation Director at Headlam, who spearheaded the training programme said: “We are extremely proud of each of the participants for completing the trainee fitter programme. Not only are we providing young people from Leeds with an opportunity to develop new skills that will help with future careers, but we’re also making a positive contribution to the Leeds community. Thank you to all of our suppliers who helped make this programme a success.”
The end of the programme was celebrated at an event in Leeds this week, with Headlam CEO, Chris Payne, presenting each trainee with a Headlam diploma. Following the success of the pilot programme, Headlam plans to host a second trainee fitter programme later this year.
Harry Wright, one of the trainees from the programme added: “I’ve really enjoyed being part of the programme. My favourite part has been working with Steve Davies, Programme Trainer at Uzin, and having the opportunity to work with Noah’s Ark, fitting carpet for those in need. Since completing the programme, I’ve succeeded in finding an apprenticeship with a flooring company, so I’m looking forward to learning more and building my career.”
About Headlam
Headlam is the UK’s leading floorcovering distributor. Operating for over 30 years, the Company has expanded to a network of c. 2,030 people, 17 distribution branches, and 76 trade counters. The Company works with suppliers across the globe manufacturing the broadest range of products, and gives them a highly effective route to market, selling their products to the large and diverse trade customer base. The Company has an extensive customer base spanning independent and multiple retailers, small and large contractors, and house builders. It provides its customers with a market-leading service through the largest product range, in-depth knowledge, ecommerce and marketing support, and nationwide next-day delivery service.
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