A new construction skills centre has been launched aimed at giving the next generation of building professionals the skills they need to succeed in the industry.
The Lloyds Construction Skills Centre in Newham, East London, is to host a range of activities aimed at promoting the career opportunities in the sector.
It was set up through a partnership between property firm Lendlease and Newham Council, with funding coming from Lloyds Bank Construction Skills Fund.
Training activities will also be held in conjunction with Workplace, the council’s job brokerage service, with the aim of tackling the skills crisis currently affecting the construction sector.
Workplace will also provide funding to help local residents get the foot on the construction careers ladder by attending additional training courses.
Lloyds agreed to provide finance for the centre, close to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, following its report on how the shortage of skilled construction workers was having an impact on the house-building sector.
The bank said it would invest £1 million over four years in a bid to improve construction skills training.
It is hoped the skills centre will become a base for trainees to learn the ropes for a whole range of construction jobs, including on-site positions and managerial roles.
In addition, the centre is carrying out a range of awareness-raising activities geared towards encouraging young people to take up apprenticeships in construction.
Councillor Terence Paul, mayoral adviser for skills and adult learning, said: “This incredible initiative will provide a unique centre which will equip young people with the skills necessary to work in a variety of different construction roles, both onsite and in managerial jobs.
“Rapid economic development means the construction sector in Newham is booming and it is essential that we work closely with developers to ensure our residents can make the most of any job opportunities created.”
For more information on getting your start in the construction industry – including details of apprenticeships – head to GoConstruct.
