Prospective students at the South West College will have a unique opportunity to enrol in an innovative new course which has been developed in co-operation with leading industry providers through the Quarry Products Association Northern Ireland (QPANI) ensuring students get the practical experience required along with the academic qualifications.

The Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering with Extractives Industry Specialism was launched by the Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey. 

Speaking at the launch the Minister said:

"This initiative by the College and the Quarry Products Association is to be highly commended as it provides our young people with identified training needs and the opportunity to gain the first hand experience required that will benefit them in gaining employment and succeeding in the workplace.”

QPANI Regional Director, Gordon Best said:

“As a means of addressing the ever-increasing skills shortages, a number of the QPA’s member Companies have created opportunities for candidates to enter a National Diploma Training Programme. Funding and support is provided by each company for students to complete the course and a full-time post is available to all candidates at the end of the two year programme.

Commenting on the launch, Victor Refaussé, Director of South West College said:

“We are delighted to have the support of the Minister and his Department for our innovative work with the QPANI. One of the biggest challenges facing any student is securing meaningful employment in the area of which you are interested in and have studied for. This course offers its applicants the opportunity to study and work, to gain the qualifications and the experience to ensure that they will secure employment and prosper in the workforce upon graduation. It is encouraging and very complimentary to see that the local Extractives industry is willing to make this level of investment in our students and to give the College this commitment.”

This course is provided with the support of Proskills sector skills council who represent the building products and extractives industry. Sponsoring Companies include Cemex Ltd, Northstone Ltd, Acheson & Glover Ltd, John McQuillan Ltd, Whitemountain Quarries, Creagh Concrete Products Ltd, P. Clarke & Co. Ltd and the Quinn Group.

For further information on the Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering with Extractives Industry Specialism course visit www.swc.ac.uk.