College commercial logistics courses to aid with driver shortage recovery

South Essex College is looking to train large numbers of logistics professionals in answer to the UK driver shortage issue.

The country is facing a lorry driver shortage because of the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit. The college is offering a wide variety of courses to aid the industry and get more drivers out on the roads delivering goods.
Individuals can upskill, retrain and start a new career with one of the college’s logistics modules including:

•    Traffic Office Manager programme
•    Driver CPC
•    LGV Driver Training (5 day practical course)
•    Introduction to LGV driving
•    Introduction to Express Courier
•    Forklift Truck practical training
•    ADR Dangerous Goods Driving

Mark Bentley, Director of Operations at the college, said: "The shortage in commercial drivers is now becoming mainstream news, with a reputed 100k driver shortage across the UK. Recent events have contributed to this, however the momentum in getting to this point has been gathering pace for a number of years. It really is becoming the perfect storm for UK haulage operations. 

“We can support organisations with apprenticeship opportunities, helping to recruit new drivers or upskilling current employees into driving roles. Along with other funding opportunities, it really is worth contacting us to see how we can help your business."

Gerard Lewis, Logistics Commercial Lead, said: “For the past 18 months, Key Workers from the logistics sector have dedicated a great deal of time and effort into keeping the economy and country moving. 

“As we begin to rise from the pandemic and the realisation of Brexit strikes home, many opportunities have arisen for individuals to retrain and gain much needed qualifications and skills. The driving industry has been hit particularly hard and needs new blood to help keep our shelves stocked, garages replenished, building materials moving to sites, essential services running and so much more.”

Individuals wishing to train in driving services and employers wishing to upskill their workforce should contact logistics@southessex.ac.uk for more information.

For more information about the courses, visit  https://www.southessex.ac.uk/workforce/the-logistics-and-transport-business