A pilot training scheme has helped Calne plastics company Deceuninck keep hold of half of its workforce.

Funding from the Free2Learn Employer Training Pilot run by Wiltshire and Swindon Learning and Skills Council has helped to reduce staff turnover at the factory in the Portemarsh Industrial Estate.

Half of the Calne plant's production employees have gained, or are working towards, NVQ level two qualifications in skills such as team leading, engineering maintenance, performing manufacturing operations, or distribution and warehousing.

Many of the trainees are experiencing formal learning for the first time since leaving school at 16.

The Calne plant, which manufactures PVCu window profiles, employs 140 people.

Human Resources Officer, Clair Beaty-Pownall, believes Free2Learn-funded training has been a significant factor in reducing staff turnover.

"Many employees say that training for a qualification is a real boost and that they really feel they're worth something because the company is supporting them."

"We've used the Free2Learn funding as a huge top-up to our training budget. Without it we wouldn't have been able to afford this training. It's a great scheme," she said.

The Free2Learn-funded training has also helped Deceuninck to identify employees who are committed to staying with the company and developing their skills further.

Since its launch in September 2002 the Wiltshire and Swindon Free2Learn Employer Training Pilot has funded 750 organisations, which has enabled a total of 6,500 employees to improve their work skills and gain work-related qualifications at NVQ level 2.