MEET DARREN GERMAN – THE LATEST CONSTRUCTION WORKER TO GAIN HIS NVQ WITH DMR

One of the latest construction industry workers to benefit from our government-funded NVQ assessment provision is Darren German, a hard surface repair technician from Manchester. He works on various sites across the region repairing and restoring a range of surfaces from worktops and window frames to porcelain tiles and UPVC doors.

Darren, who runs his own business, wasn’t aware that funding was available until he heard about DMR from a workmate. He contacted us in the hope of gaining his NVQ Level 2 in Associated Industrial Services Occupations – Damage Repair and Resurfacing.

Before going self-employed in 2012, the 46 year-old Mancunian originally worked as North West technician for Brighton-based repair firm, Magic Man. Yet despite working in the industry for over a decade, he never gained a vocational qualification…until now.

“This NVQ will allow me to get more work,” says Darren. “It will help me with marketing my business and it will open up more doors”.

Onsite Assessment

Darren completed his NVQ over the course of four months through the onsite assessment and training route (OSAT). DMR assessor, Lyndon Toms, worked with Darren throughout his NVQ, helping him to build a portfolio evidencing his 15 years of experience in damage repair.

“Lyndon is a really nice fellow,” says Darren. “He visited me several times to work on my NVQ and he explained everything thoroughly”.

Future Plans

Now that he has an NVQ, expanding his business is at the forefront of Darren’s plans. “There’s a lot work out there,” says the Manchester United fan and former Old Trafford steward. “I can now apply for my blue CSCS card which will get me on a lot more sites. I want to grow the business and get into a position to employ someone”.

Skills Support for the Workforce

Darren’s NVQ was fully funded by the Skills Support for the Workforce programme which is part funded by the European Social Fund. Funding is still available for construction workers in Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Sheffield City Region. Contact us today to find if you’re eligible.