The Government has announced a major expansion of employment and training support for young people across the UK, with almost a million young people expected to benefit from new training and work experience opportunities.
This includes funded placements, structured support and regionally targeted delivery through Jobcentre Plus.
NPTA said that for the pest control sector, this represents a real opportunity, and is very much aligned to the great work started with the 5<25 future programme that it launched in partnership with Syngenta Professional Pest Management.
“At NPTA, we are already working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to help ensure pest control is recognised as a viable, structured and professional career pathway,” said Kevin Lawrenson, NPTA chief executive
“Our focus is clear:
- Creating defined entry routes into the industry;
- Aligning training to recognised qualifications;
- Supporting employers with reduced recruitment risk; and
- Building long-term career progression, not just short-term placements.”
To support this initiative, NPTA has scheduled a follow-up webinar on Thursday, April 23, aimed at job seekers and Jobcentre teams.
The session will outline:
- What a career in pest control looks like
- Entry-level opportunities;
- Training and qualification pathways;
- Progression into specialist and supervisory roles; and
- How employers can engage with structured recruitment initiatives.
Mr Lawrenson said: “We believe pest control offers clear vocational progression, recognised qualifications and genuine long-term career development. This makes our sector well placed to engage positively with the Government’s Youth Guarantee and wider employment programmes.
“If you are an employer interested in being part of structured recruitment pathways, or would like to understand how this could support your workforce planning, please contact the NPTA team via [email protected].”
