Tarmac launch new Driver Training Academy

Company takes a fresh approach to driver recruitment with new large goods vehicle training programme

HERALDING a fresh approach to driver recruitment, Tarmac have launched a new large goods vehicle (LGV) Driver Training Academy, to help build on their existing cohort of some 2,500 drivers.

The Academy is being trialled by the company’s Readymix division and has seen 30 participants take on a seven-month training programme designed to prepare them to become fully qualified LGV drivers for the business.

The £1,000 cost of an LGV licence, as well as all training costs, will be covered by Tarmac, removing one of the main barriers to people choosing a career as a driver.

Sam Fergus, logistics manager for ready-mixed concrete at Tarmac, commented: ‘The scheme has been tailored so that trainees will not only gain a full LGV licence, but will also partner with a current Tarmac driver or contract haulier to learn everything about how to safely operate and look after a truckmixer. The on-the-job training also covers an understanding of other roles, giving them a strong foundation to support successful careers within our company.’

As part of Tarmac’s continued commitment to championing road safety and the Construction Logistics and Cyclist Safety Standard (CLOCS), the new scheme will prioritize vulnerable road-user training, to help the drivers understand the high standards expected by the business.

Both the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and the Freight Transport Association (FTA) believe that industry has a current shortage of around 45,000 heavy goods vehicle drivers. To help meet this need, Tarmac say they will look to grow the Academy across their business over the coming years.

In addition to their Driver Training Academy programme, Tarmac are continuing their commitment to supporting skills in the construction industry by creating more than 50 apprenticeships in 2016, including 10 roles in the Readymix business.