Spalding area haulier invests in new training school to bring in younger drivers

A new training school for lorry drivers is hoped to attract more younger people into the profession.

Gist has invested a "signficant" sum in creating a training facility, complete with working lorry, at its base in Warden Tree Lane, Pinchbeck.

The firm, like many in the industry, has an older workforce, with 47% of its staff over the age of 46 and less than 2% under the age of 25.

Operations controller Lee Costen said attracting younger people is an industry wide problem but Gist have had invested in new technology and flexible working patterns. Drivers can now earn up to £35,000.

He also hopes that the new training school will also help to encourage younger people.

Mr Costen said: "This new training facility shows that we are willing to invest in people, their knowledge and development in order to make them a full part of the business and its success."

Under current rules, lorry drivers must under go 35 hours of training every five years.

Gist has transformed a former warehouse at its site into the training school.

The facility is a large classroom with seating around different displays and set in the middle is the working lorry.

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The people running the courses are also lorry drivers who have been trained.

Mr Costen said: "Having watched training recently, I can see they are enjoying their experience in the training room more than being sat around the screen.

"It is an immersive experience. At any point, they can go over to the truck and demonstrate."

Gist has also invested in new technology in its cabs along with apps to help drivers look after their shifts. It is has also improved its distribution centre for the benefit of staff.

The firm is now offering new flexible working patterns, which go over weekends, in order to help people who have families.

It is also supporting a number of trainees through their class one lorry training which takes about five weeks.