HGVC issues update on Skills Bootcamps
Training specialist HGVC has said the recent extension of the government’s Skills Bootcamps programme represents a major opportunity for fleets looking to recruit new drivers.
“Industry and the government have made great strides in addressing the shortage – such as implementing Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving, which have helped train thousands of new drivers,” said James Clifford, CEO of HGVC.
“The scheme is a valuable lifeline for transport and logistics managers looking to plug the shortfall, gain new drivers and meet demand.”
James cites Logistics UK’s estimate that the HGV industry remains short of around 60,000 drivers.
“However, the government is helping improve the situation by implementing several policies,” he said, adding that around 11,000 new drivers have been trained under the Skills Bootcamps.
“Since the start of the initial Skills Bootcamps scheme, HGVC alone has helped 1,070 trainees to pass their practical test and are ready to drive,” James continued.
“Some 535 drivers are in jobs and a further 400 have secured interviews.
“And now the government has extended the scheme for a further year.
“The Driver Academy Group (DAG), the consortium led by HGVC, and comprising workforce solutions group Manpower and trade body Logistics UK, has a further 1,300 majority-funded Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving places available for transport and logistics firms.
“The HGV Skills Bootcamps are flexible courses of up to 16 weeks. They give people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills. First launched in December 2021, the government has extended the programme for 12 months until 31 March 2024.
“HGVC will lead the extension of its original contract with the Department for Education, with scope for further expansion if capacity allows. This extension translates to training at least 1,300 additional individuals over the next 12 months, potentially creating more than a thousand new drivers for the transport and logistics sector.
“With these courses, the government will fund 70 per cent of the total cost of HGV driver training through the Skills Bootcamps scheme. Transport and logistics firms will fund the remaining 30 per cent of the course cost.”
HGVC’s courses primarily focus on helping novice drivers gain their Category C (rigid lorry) licence, a Category C+E (articulated lorry) licence or helping those with a Category C licence upgrade to a Category C + E.
Its courses are open to any business looking to train any employee with a driver’s licence. The training courses are available at 60 locations across the UK, and transport and logistics firms can apply at: www.hgv.academy
“While the immediate HGV driver shortage has passed, many transport and logistics firms still need more drivers to meet demand,” James Clifford added.
“So, for employers reconsidering training budgets, this is a huge opportunity to train new drivers or existing staff.
“While the economy continues to face some major challenges, this scheme is a lifeline for the transport and logistics sector and keep supply chains moving.”
