Fiesta is supporting the Government’s Kickstart scheme by working with an apprenticeship management specialist to streamline the process for employers.
The Furniture and Interiors Education and Training Alliance (Fiesta) is working with The Apprenticeship Group to make the process of accessing the new government apprenticeship initiative easier for companies in the KBB industry.
Fiesta is an approved Government Kickstart Gateway Organisation and is supporting its members wishing to benefit from the Kickstart scheme, which has a £2 billion fund available to aid post-Covid regeneration by allowing employers to offer a six-month work placement, aimed at young people added 16 to 24 who are at risk of long-term unemployment.
Fiesta advises employers not to be put off by he “hefty” Kickstart registration process as they can now make use of its management specialists, who have established system and processes in place.
Full administrative and payroll support will be offered, as well as access to the industry’s leading team of trainers, developers and work coaches. All relevant information can be provided by Fiesta, which also offers an easy-to-follow form.
Fiesta says that it will support employers throughout the programme and monitor the best routes and opportunities for participants throughout the duration of the placement, whether that be an apprenticeship, permanent employment or additional employability support.
Bespoke kitchen specialist Roundhouse Design will be taking on a Kickstarter for six months of training to teach them all aspects of kitchen design. It aims then to move on to a Level 3 apprenticeship as a Technical Assistant and ultimately a kitchen/living spaces design degree.
Craig Matson, Roundhouse founder and chairman of The Kitchen Education Trust (TKET), said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce new talent while showcasing our industry to young people. We work in a thriving sector that is going from strength to strength and needs new talent and fresh ideas to continue on that trajectory. This is an excellent opportunity, with a huge amount of unrivalled support, for an employer to help pave the way for the furniture and interiors industry.”
Fiesta chairman Gary Baker added: “While the Government’s Kickstart initiative is hugely exciting, we also recognise the time and effort required by an employer to sign up and commit to such a programme. That is why we are delighted to be able to offer our support in all aspects, meaning businesses do not have to miss such a wonderful opportunity to help the next generation of talent progress in their career.”