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Front-line apprentices
They are on the front line in a company's bid to attract custom and make a good impression.
Now Wigan businesses are to be given access to a government-funded apprenticeship scheme specifically for customer service staff.
Spearheading the drive is Leigh-based Alliance Learning at a time that customer service jobs in the North West are expected to increase by almost 40% in the next six years. According to the Institute for Employer Research this growth is expected to be higher than any other occupation sector.
Meanwhile, the National Employers Skills Survey of 2005 found that employers across the UK identified customer service skills as second only to technical and practical skills as the most difficult to obtain.
In response to these skills shortages, Alliance Learning has launched the apprenticeship for businesses in the region.
It provides free training for 16 to 24-year-olds involved in customer service-related roles including sales and retail.
The apprenticeship is accredited by Education Development International and Oxford, Cambridge and RSA
Examinations and leads to an NVQ level 2 qualification in customer service.
Lynda Collison of Alliance Learning said: "The apprenticeship aims to develop the essential skills employees need to provide good customer service, which is an important element for any organisation.
"Apprenticeships benefit both businesses and their employees. Employees can improve their skills by working towards a recognised qualification, whilst still earning a wage.
"The training is entirely government-funded and training and assessment can be carried out on site."
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Weather for Wigan
Friday 10 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -6 C to 3 C
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Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
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