Newton Aycliffe based training provider Baltic Training Services is celebrating the graduation of their second cohort of trainees.
The five trainees graduated with flying colours after completing their initial two week induction programme, followed up with an eight week work experience placement supported by local business and employers in Newton Aycliffe. These include Almit Metal Finishings, Thorn Lighting, Love Thy Cupcake, Costa Coffee and EOS.
The trainees, aged between 16-18, took part ain the two week intensive induction programme which saw them develop their the skills required to undertake a work placement – including behaviour, attitude, confidence, communication and presentation skills which are vital to having successful career.
The end result of the course saw the young trainees graduating with an accredited qualification and presenting their new skills to staff and employers participating in the programme.
Additional skills such as developing customer services techniques, basic first aid, time and money management and preparing for interviews were also covered and gave the young trainees the chance to further grow in confidence.
Recent course graduate Matthew Tate, 17, is thrilled he has made such progress within the two weeks of programme and is eager to complete the remaining eight weeks work experience at his placement at Thorn Lighting in Spennymoor and said: “The traineeship programme has really built up my confidence and prepared me for beginning work. I am really grateful for the start it has given me; I am ready for my work experience and am really excited about it.”
Group coach and mentor Steven Watson, who spent 27 years in the Marines and is still a reserve, is very proud of all of the trainees on the programme. He said: “It’s been great to work with these young people because you see them change dramatically in such a short space of time.”
“Their commitment and enthusiasm was fantastic and they really have grown in confidence and gained the skills needed for adult life and the working world.”
Jeff Thompson, Director for Baltic Training Services commented: “We have been delighted with how well our traineeship induction courses are going and feel so much pride for these youngsters who have tried so hard whilst they have been with us.”
At the end of their traineeship programme the learners will have completed and achieved Function Skills qualifications in Maths & English, gained valuable work experience and developed their employability skills with a view to obtaining permanent employment or an apprenticeship.
The traineeship programmes are on-going and Baltic Training has a new group of trainees ready to start. Baltic are keen to hear from any potential trainees wishing to join the next traineeship programme.  Please contact traineeship@baltictraining.com for more information.

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Left to right; Claire Welsh (Employability Manager) Matthew Tate, Joe Barlow, Chelsea Yorke, Keiran Jones, Robert Threlfall, Steve Watson (Tutor).