KEIGHLEY College is branching out as it partners with a timber distribution and processing group.

The Bradford Road campus has joined with National Timber Group to deliver its first national apprenticeship qualification.

The 15-month Level 3 team leader/supervisor programme is a key part of the group’s plans to develop a standardised approach to quality across all areas of the business.

National Timber Group, which includes all branches of Arnold Laver, is currently training internal staff in conjunction with the college.

The scheme will involve the cohort working as a group and as individuals in their respective branches, where they will be supported by mentors.

There will also be distance learning, backed by a dedicated teacher and assessor.

Clare Fitzgerald – head of stakeholder engagement and growth at Keighley College, which is part of the Luminate Education Group – said: “In the last 18 months, apprentice reforms have opened-up the doors for private companies to get involved in delivering apprenticeships.

“The creation of new apprenticeship standards, coupled with the Government’s incentives, has highlighted the benefits of apprenticeships across the country.

“Working closely with National Timber Group, we want to create opportunities to help learners progress within the industry and support them to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills that meet the industry's demand.”

There are plans to further develop the programme to support production managers within the company with upskilling and the college is working closely with the group to create sales and management training.

Marc Bertrand, human resources director at National Timber Group, said: “Our partnership with Keighley College is a key part of our strategy to support the group as we go from strength to strength.

“The college is helping us to develop the management teams of tomorrow which will be vital to continuing this success.”

As the post-pandemic recovery continues, demand in the £10 billion timber sector has soared – with construction starting to ramp-up. The industry provides thousands of jobs across the country in forestry, sawmills and manufacturing.