T&G helps to build up workers' skills

A workplace learning project set up by the T&G general union and Tarmac Topblock is helping staff at the Essex-based manufacturer of building materials to gain new skills and qualifications.

The first 12 employees on the project - part of an initiative by the union to promote life skills - were awarded Level 2 certificates in literacy and computer skills at a ceremony this month.

"Many working-class people did not achieve at school," T&G regional learning organiser Terry Brandon explained. "The gap between the education and skills of the rich and poor reinforces social inequalities in the same way as financial divisions can. As a trade union we are rightly challenging this order."

For more information about the project, visit www.unionlearn.org.uk/learning/learn-1021-f0.cfm