Pictured: The team at the Madeley headquarters of FSP

A Telford manufacturer is taking its workers back to the classroom in an innovative project to help improve their career prospects.

Around 20 staff at Fabweld Steel Products are taking part in the adult literacy and numeracy programme with Telford College of Arts and Technology.

The aim is to ensure existing employees at the manhole cover company achieve the equivalent of a Grade C or above in both subjects, putting them on a equal footing with new recruits into the business which are required to have the qualifications.

Operations director at Madeley-based FSP, Wayne Carter, said the project was launched to develop the skills and aspirations of staff across the business.

He said: "As a business we are always want to invest in our staff in the same way we invest in new technology, but with new technology comes more complexity of equipment operation. As we make bespoke products, our workforce is having to interpret measurements, angles, degrees and we wanted to give them the academic tools to be able to progress within the business, develop their potential and the potential of our business.

"We have made a long-term commitment to get everyone in the business to achieve Adult Literacy and Numeracy Level 2, which is equivalent to a GCSE grade C or above in Maths and English. This will benefit the business in terms of having a more switched-on workforce, but the skills will transfer into their everyday lives as well."

FSP said staff are already discovering the benefits of the programme, including its assistance with dealing with their personal finances. A tutor from TCAT works with each staff member individually once a week with personalised learning development plans in place.

Mr Carter added: "Our recruitment policy now requires new starters to have this level of qualification but it's not fair to bring people in and give them the opportunity to progress and not develop your existing workforce.

"Initially there was some scepticism but everyone is on board because they understand that it is a great opportunity to develop their own potential and move up through the business."

The programme is run during work hours, with no concession made to the company's production targets.

Mr Carter added: "We're delighted with the success of the programme so far and the feedback from our staff. It is vital to develop your workforce and give our employees the opportunities which may have been lacking at earlier stages of their education and career."

FSP employs more than 35 staff and is a European market leader in the manufacture and supply of specialist access covers and drainage equipment.