A Centre of Excellence in Textiles has been developed in Hawick after receiving £610k of funding from the Scottish Government through the South of Scotland Economic Partnership.
What will it do?
The centre is helping address business critical skills issues in the sector and providing industry skills of all levels to a wide range of individuals.
Training is provided in the practical elements of the textile and knitwear industry, including apprenticeships, and will also provide upskilling opportunities to the town’s current textiles and knitwear workforce.
The long term vision of the project is to develop, in addition to the training centre, a textile innovation centre as well as a showcase and marketing tool for the local industry.
Where is it based?
The centre is based within unused space in Hawick High School, with a dedicated entrance. There is no access between the school and the centre.
A travel allowance may be available for trainees.
Who is involved?
The Centre of Excellence is a partnership project involving:
- ourselves
- Skills Development Scotland
- Scottish Enterprise
- Scottish Development International
- the Department for Work and Pensions
- local textile and knitwear manufacturing businesses
How can I access training?
If you are interested in training opportunities at the centre please phone Alistair Young, Centre of Excellence Manager, 01450 393939.
The project is also working with businesses in the sector, the Developing the Young Workforce group, secondary schools and the DWP to identify potential trainees too.
More information
To find out more about the Centre of Excellence please visit their website.