Tailored training for quarry managers

Lafarge and Holcim working with University of Leicester to deliver bespoke quarrying qualifications

TWO of the world’s largest quarrying companies, Holcim and Lafarge, are individually working with the University of Leicester’s Department of Geology on the first UK postgraduate courses developed specifically for the quarrying industry.

The one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Quarry Management and Operations distance learning courses utilize work-based learning supplemented by residentials with high-level industry specialists provided by the companies themselves.

The postgraduate course programme is adjusted to each company’s particular requirements and targets their respective needs.

The courses prepare staff for senior management roles within their respective companies and are aimed at experienced quarry workers with limited qualifications or recent graduates requiring a fast-track route to skills specific to the quarrying industry.

Toby White, course director of quarry programmes at the University, said: ‘The important thing about these courses is that they are developed with, and focused towards, the needs of two of the world’s largest quarrying companies. This is tailored provision of advanced postgraduate material and we work closely with them to make sure it meets their needs.’

Jim Verity, human resources director for Lafarge Aggregates Ltd, added: ‘The development of this programme with the University of Leicester demonstrates our continuing commitment to developing the skills and knowledge of our workforce. We have found this programme has significantly contributed to improving the overall standards in our quarries.’

The Postgraduate Certificate in Quarry Management and Operations is currently only open to employees of Lafarge or Holcim (operating in the UK as Aggregate Industries) participating in their employer’s respectively tailored programme. For more information contact Toby White on tel: (07731) 970692; or via email using the contact form below.