Minister for employability and training, Jamie Hepburn MSP, was invited by Unite the Union and UCATT to celebrate the achievements of workplace learners at Aberdeen City Council, while also presenting them with certificates.
Over the last two years the unions organised learning and support to 297 Aberdeen City Council workers.
The education was delivered free to workers through financial support from the Learning Fund, which is supported by the Scottish Government and administered by Scottish Union Learning.
UCATT organised onsite assessment for 23 Aberdeen City Council tradespeople, including joiners, painters, plasterers, slaters and masons.
The scheme provided workers who had no formal qualifications with the chance to demonstrate their considerable skills and experience.
The candidates were assessed at work and were also required to complete portfolios to obtain NVQ Level 2 qualifications.
10 places were funded by the council to ensure the workloads of candidates were suitable to show their wide range of skills, while the Learning Fund financed the remaining 13 places.
Hepburn also enjoyed a tour of disused council properties to look at examples of the work carried out by the learners, which included brickwork, plastering and partitioned walls.
Director of Scottish Union Learning, Wendy Burton, commented: “Scottish Union Learning congratulates workers in Aberdeen City Council on obtaining their qualifications.
“This is an excellent example of trade union and employer partnerships, demonstrating how working together can overcome logistical workplace challenges and develop vital learning opportunities for workers.”
Minister for employability and training, Jamie Hepburn, said: “Scottish Union Learning helps workers to improve their skills and qualifications as well as their prospects and prosperity. Today’s visit highlights what can be achieved when trade unions and employers work together to support Scotland’s workers.
“Trade Unions play a vital role in up-skilling our workforce and delivering Scottish Union Learning so it is great to hear first-hand from those who have benefitted from the programme and to celebrate in their success.”
