Darren Cotterill, backing his painting and decorating skills with credentials

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We sat down at Nottingham Skills Academy with one of the current learners, Darren Cotterill, who started his journey at the construction skills training facility at the start of December 2022.

Darren, who’s already a self-employed painter and decorator, lacked the papers he needed to endorse his natural skills and capabilities.

He’d worked on the railway and roads for years, and after Covid-19 decided to “go back into the big wide world” to forge a new career. Darren initially worked for a private company based in Stockport, where got the bug for painting and decorating, and started doing bits and bobs for his family back home in Nottingham. In a self-employed capacity, Darren then worked successfully on some student accommodation, but was laid off his most recent contract 3 weeks before Christmas.

He found out about NSA from his work coach, and spoke to Laura Hoddinott, NSA’s Sales and Engagement Coach, who explained all about the Introduction to Construction course, where you get the chance to obtain your CSCS card, and the new government funded Skills Bootcamps that the academy runs. He immediately signed up for the intro course which he completed on the 16th December, and is confidently working his way through the Skills Bootcamp in Painting and Decorating programme.

Since starting the course, Darren said:
"It’s been a real confidence booster. I’ve been helping the other learners here, passing on my knowledge, and it’s made me decide that I’d like to start tutoring. Mixing it up by teaching and also earning my own wage."
Darren concluded: 
“Laura really stood out. She’s been so helpful and informative. I would definitely encourage others to come here. It’s a nice safe haven. Keep up the good work!”

We love that fact that Darren mucks in helping others to hone their skills whilst working hard to attain the qualifications that he has definitely earnt these past weeks. 

With CSCS card in hand, we wish Darren lots of career luck when he finishes the programme early February!


If you're unemployed or a low-income earner, and you'd like to take advantage of this career changing opportunity, contact us on courses@skillspeoplegroup.com today. Alternatively, visit our website at www.skillsacademies.com to discover more.







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