The course included modules that focused on self-development, teamwork, planning, improving, monitoring and coaching workforces, communication, customer service as well as problem-solving and decision making.

Eight employees at paving and walling products’ manufacturer, AG, have been commended for completing a supervisory level management training course as part of a wider upskilling plan across the business.

The eight staff completed the ILM Level 2 Certificate in Team Leading presented by South West College. The course included modules that focused on self-development, teamwork, planning, improving, monitoring and coaching workforces, communication, customer service as well as problem-solving and decision making.

The completion of the course has led to some employees receiving promotions and, according to the company, there is a keen interest in completing the ILM Level 3 Certificate.

Declan McStravick Head of Manufacturing Paving, Walling and Aggregates, said: “Supporting and encouraging workforce progression has always been a priority at AG, and very much at the heart of its ongoing training and development programmes. This ongoing educational support is extremely important and beneficial to the entire workforce.

"The employees have gained newfound confidence in their ability to deal with problems, issues that they would have previously left for their managers to resolve. This in time will help with building healthy internal relationships and encourage better time management also.”

The ILM Level Certificate course which advances the supervisor level of an employee has been ongoing for some years and is part of a proactive training and development programme for AG’s operations workforce. All training and development programmes are monitored by carrying out yearly employee reviews to ensure career progression and that training is being provided to help employees reach career goals and grow within the company.

McStravick added: “Considering the many diversions our work lives have taken throughout the pandemic, it has now become even more important than ever for companies to provide continuous educational opportunities and promote from within the company.”

According to a LinkedIn report, 38% of job seekers consider ongoing employee training a deciding factor. The same LinkedIn report also stated that 73% of HR and hiring professionals say internal recruiting is increasingly important to their company.