13 July 2021.

A third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic across Zambia saw the Government impose a number of measures. This included closing schools and education institutions. As a result, training at our Centre for Excellence was suspended on 21 June.

Only two weeks into their training, our 23 Plastering trainees had to be sent home. However our distance learning programme is helping to bridge the gap until we can welcome them back onsite.

Initially developed during the first lockdown in summer 2020, we have continued developing this model of learning during the pandemic.

This has enabled our Training Team to move quickly to develop content during this latest closure.

Lessons have been recorded and uploaded onto electronic tablets. A small number of tasks are set throughout the lessons. Depending on literacy levels, these tasks are either completed on paper at home or through telephone discussions with the trainer. Tablets are returned each week for new content to be uploaded.

The distance learning materials have been well received by our latest trainees, including Deborah pictured above who gave it a thumbs up! They are pleased some training can continue, but hope to be back in their classrooms soon.

Plastering trainees are taken through their lessons by trainer Daniel Simuntala

Our entry-level Plastering course provides 9-weeks of intensive training, covering a range of key topics including:

• Health, safety and welfare
• Tools & equipment
• Preparation of surfaces
• Key principles associated with plastering/rendering materials – types, uses, properties, quality, mixing, storage and disposal
• Application of plastering / rendering materials to internal and external brick and block surfaces