Business : Training & Skills News
EN:Able Futures’ secures triple victory at Construction Apprenticeship Awards

EN:Able Futures’ secures triple victory at Construction Apprenticeship Awards

FLEXI-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures continues to lead the way in supporting construction apprenticeships, rising top of the podium at last week’s Construction Apprenticeship Awards. A division of Efficiency North Holdings, the service was named Construction Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, solidifying its reputation as a leader in nurturing the next

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Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices were given a starring role recently (Friday 30 September) to highlight the College’s Earlseat Wind Farm Scholarship. The Scholarship received £82k this year from Earlseat owners, The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG), to support companies to take on and train Modern Apprentices (MAs). In practice, funds are

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HS2 Ltd boosted by new early careers intake

HS2 Ltd boosted by new early careers intake

HS2 Ltd has strengthened its future talent pool, welcoming a total of 44 new starters to its 2024 early careers programme. The intake of 26 graduates and 18 apprentices have joined the company across multiple office and site locations between the West Midlands and London. They join teams responsible for

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Northern Flexi Job Apprenticeship agency swoops double win at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Northern Flexi Job Apprenticeship agency swoops double win at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 

CELEBRATIONS are in full swing as northern flexi-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures secures two prestigious accolades at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.   Part of Efficiency North Holdings, EN:Able Futures has grown into a leading flexi-job apprenticeship agency over the past decade, unlocking opportunities for young people across the north of

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construction partners create state-of-the-art workshop for students

Construction partners create state-of-the-art workshop for students

A housing association-led partnership has transformed two college classrooms into cutting-edge workshops, designed to inspire students to join the construction sector. Hartlepool College of Further Education unveiled its new construction workshops to students on Tuesday, following its transformation by be:ONE partners. The be:ONE partnership was launched in April by believe

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

Business : Training & Skills News

The brightest talent in construction: Two weeks left to register to attend the SkillBuild National Final 2024

The brightest talent in construction: Two weeks left to register to attend the SkillBuild National Final 2024

Don’t miss out on your chance to watch the country’s top construction talent go head-to-head at the SkillBuild National Final 2024, the largest and longest-running multi-trade skills competition in the UK. The free event, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is taking place at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes, from 20 – 21 November and brings to life the excitement and variety that a career in construction provides.   A total of 78 students will demonstrate their skills in ten different construction trades, including bricklaying, carpentry, and roof slating and tiling. The competitors will be expected to construct a project within an 18-hour period.  An expert panel of judges will assess them on several aspects – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, skills working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements. A winner will be crowned from each of the ten construction trades on display at the SkillBuild National Final.  Alongside the competition is the Construction Showcase, an experience hub filled with activities and demonstrations for children and young people. Brands such as Crown Paints, British Gypsum and STEMPOINT will also be delivering sessions.   Previous winners of SkillBuild and construction influencers will deliver a series of TED talks to visitors sharing their journeys and inspiring others to join construction. Attendees include Luke Mabbott, a former Love Island contestant and owner of Brotherhood Properties, a construction company which buys and renovates houses, and Charlie Collison, two-time winner of Super Trowel, a speed skimming and bricklaying competition, and construction business owner.  Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: “We’re really looking forward to the upcoming SkillBuild final. With CITB’s forecast indicating a need for over 250,000 new construction workers by 2028, SkillBuild is more important than ever in spotlighting the sector and the wide array of roles available within it.  “This is a critical time for skills development in construction. SkillBuild motivates newcomers, showing the immense value that trainees and apprentices bring to the industry. It’s a unique opportunity for young people to see first-hand skills in the construction industry and discover how exceptional a career in construction is. It’s also a great opportunity for those with an interest in any of the featured trades to come along, support, and learn from some of the best in the industry. I also hope the quality of work on show inspires employers to invest in apprenticeships and trainees within their own teams.  “To all our National Final competitors, we wish you the best of luck, and we look forward to celebrating your success in two weeks’ time!”  CITB would like to thank all the fantastic sponsors and supporters of this year’s SkillBuild competition: Albion Stone, BAL Adhesives, Band of Builders, Brick Development Association, British Gypsum, Careers Wales, CITB NI, Clivedon Conservation, Crown Paints, Felder Group, Festool, FIS, Hambleside Danelaw Building Products, Institute of Carpenters, Marley, N&C Nicobond, NFRC, NSITG, Saint Gobain, Schluter, SIG Roofing, SPAX, Stone Restoration Services, TARMAC, The Tile Association, Tilgear, Weber, Wienerberger, The Worshipful Company of Masons, and The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers.  The SkillBuild National Finalists for 2024 are available here.   Tickets for the SkillBuild National Final 2024 (20-21 November 2024) are available here. The competition will be open to visitors on Wednesday 20 November 2024 and Thursday 21 November 2024 from 9am.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Willmott Dixon strengthens commitment to SEND support through Oxlow Bridge Project

Willmott Dixon strengthens commitment to SEND support through Oxlow Bridge Project

A construction company manager is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace environment where dedication and hard work are the cornerstones of success.   Willmott Dixon social value manager Natalie Sidey was speaking after meeting students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) at Barking & Dagenham College.  As part of the business’s ongoing Oxlow Bridge project, she spent the day with 120 SEND and neurodiverse students, leading workshops with four groups as part of the college’s Horizon programme.  She said: “I would like us to lead the charge in creating an inclusive work environment where being a hard worker counts.”  Oxlow Bridge School, located in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, is a collaboration between the Department for Education (DfE) technical advisers, Willmott Dixon Construction, and the Partnership Learning Trust to create a new school for up to 100 pupils with profound and multiple learning (PMLD) difficulties.  During Natalie’s visit each session was tailored to the unique challenges and capabilities of the participants, underscoring the ongoing need for industries to embrace all learning styles.  The students, whose day-to-day challenges often include mastering skills like reading timetables to travelling independently, taught Natalie as much as she taught them.  She said: “I really enjoyed listening and learning from the young people, and it was great to hear their answers to the question, ‘What three positive words would you use to describe yourself?’ with answers like wonderful, fabulous, resilient, creative and respectful with ‘hard worker’ becoming the common thread of the day.”  Reflecting on the sector, she said: “Our industry hasn’t historically embraced these incredible individuals, but the smallest contribution can make a monumental difference.”  While health and safety regulations, including CSCS and other certifications, often make it difficult to employ individuals without formal qualifications, Natalie stressed the importance of creating opportunities.  This commitment to inclusivity aligns with Willmott Dixon’s broader efforts in the educational sector. The company has published a white paper, Building for All, which provides unique insight and guidance for local authorities developing a new generation of schools for SEND pupils.  The paper captures the lessons learned from various stakeholders – ranging from councils to architects – who are involved in creating specialised school accommodations.   Speaking of her insightful visit, Natalie said: “My visit to Barking and Dagenham College was possibly one of my most humbling experiences. The students had a contagious energy for life. They laughed with me, and at me sometimes too! All they really wanted was for someone to take the time to understand them and show a bit of patience.   “No matter their personal challenges, the students were lively and engaged. It’s clear they have so much to contribute if given the right support.”  For further information about Willmott Dixon, visit willmottdixon.co.uk  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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EN:Able Futures’ secures triple victory at Construction Apprenticeship Awards

EN:Able Futures’ secures triple victory at Construction Apprenticeship Awards

FLEXI-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures continues to lead the way in supporting construction apprenticeships, rising top of the podium at last week’s Construction Apprenticeship Awards. A division of Efficiency North Holdings, the service was named Construction Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, solidifying its reputation as a leader in nurturing the next generation of talent across the built environment sector. To enhance its already impressive accolades, two of EN:Able Futures’ apprentices were also recognised at the ceremony. Lauren Raynor, who is hosted by Alan Wood & Partners, was awarded Level 3 Construction Apprentice of the Year, while Liam Mansbridge, hosted by Termrim Construction, won Level 4 Construction Apprentice of the Year. These wins continue a proud tradition for the agency, as the team has previously celebrated success at the Construction Apprenticeship Awards through its apprentices, who received individual awards in 2022 and 2023. Julie Deeley, director of operations at EN:Able Futures, said: “Winning Construction Apprenticeship Employer of the Year is a testament to our apprentices’ hard work, host employers, and our team’s dedication alike to deliver opportunities that translate into job-ready skills, while steering the trajectory of our sector. “Seeing Lauren and Liam excel in their roles is what drives us to continue serving talented individuals to thrive and fast track their professional growth. Once again, we are proud to show that apprenticeships are not just an alternative path to higher education, but a powerful tool for transforming the workforce development and future of construction.” EN:Able Futures has a proven track record in creating pathways for young people across the north of England by providing routes for development along the construction industry. To date, the agency has supported more than 500 apprentices to prepare for the workforce, providing high-quality training and steadfast support while addressing the industry’s critical skills shortage. The construction industry continues to face a workforce gap, with 250,000 additional skilled workers required by 2027, according to the latest CITB figures. Apprenticeships like those facilitated by EN:Able Futures are key to unlocking opportunities that can address this shortfall. In 2023 alone, only 22,310 apprenticeships were started in the construction sector, despite the growing demand for trained professionals. EN:Able Futures has earned multiple accolades this year, to only name a few: SME Employer of the Year at the East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, and Apprenticeship Employer of the Year at the Yorkshire and Humber regional apprenticeship and skills awards. The latter, organised by the Department for Education, has secured the service a place in the national finals, which will take place in London on 27 November. These achievements reflect the agency’s commitment to excellence and success as apprenticeship delivery provider, paving the way to prepare the workforce of tomorrow. For more information about EN:Able Futures, visit: https://www.efficiencynorth.org/futures Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Government’s new degree apprenticeship funding plans are a major blow to construction firms

Government’s new degree apprenticeship funding plans are a major blow to construction firms

The government’s new plans to restrict levy funding of level 7 apprenticeships will widen the skills gap, hinder the economy and have a significant financial impact on construction firms needing to develop future managers, business leaders or fill specialist roles.  The warning comes from the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC) which has produced a new national report in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University to explore the critical purpose of training apprentices of all ages to deliver jobs of the future. The report also explores the importance of older apprentices to employers in a shifting labour market and the impact higher and degree apprenticeships, such as those at level 7, have on firms from a growth, employee retention, skills and productivity perspective. Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, chief executive for UVAC commented: “The government’s policy aims to reduce levy funding of level 7 apprenticeships is a major blow to construction employers, the wider economy and the skills development of both senior level staff and those in specialist roles such as technology. “It will largely affect those businesses with apprentices aged over 25 that rely on the current financial support to meet the cost of upskilling employees to be effective managers, business leaders or occupy more technical roles via level 7 and master’s degree apprenticeships. “Given this government’s current focus is economic growth and addressing social mobility, it makes no sense to introduce policy that could undermine it. Degree apprenticeships at level 7 are proven to enhance social mobility, by giving individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to follow a pathway into the professions, gain access to higher education and also achieve higher-paid, senior-level positions further in their career. Many people from underserved communities could now not realise their full earning potential as a result and miss out on opportunities to become highly skilled in their chosen profession.” Findings from the National Foundation of Educational Research reveal that 90% of roles within firms across sectors such as construction will require higher-level skills by 2035, highlighting how the wider economy and more employers than ever will be dependent on degree apprenticeships at levels 6 and 7, rather than just those at lower levels. Charlynne Pullen, principal research fellow at Sheffield Hallam University, who has just produced the ‘Apprenticeships – a system built for Adults’ report, commented: “The current apprenticeship system has significant benefits for adults and their employers, at all levels and all stages of a career. Young people, and those with less work experience, need additional support, and new foundation apprenticeships are a welcome recognition of that. But we should not lose sight of the support needed for adults to progress, to upskill, to reskill, and to learn new skills at a range of points in their career.” Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee added: “We welcome any attempts to engage more young people with apprenticeships through the government’s plans to introduce paid ‘foundation’ apprenticeships, but this should not be at the expense of level 7 and the essential levy funding support needed by construction employers. The government needs to prioritise the career and skills progression of employees at every stage of their working life.” The ‘Apprenticeships – a system built for adults’ report is now freely available to view online at www.uvac.ac.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices shine at Earlseat Wind Farm

Fife College Modern Apprentices were given a starring role recently (Friday 30 September) to highlight the College’s Earlseat Wind Farm Scholarship. The Scholarship received £82k this year from Earlseat owners, The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG), to support companies to take on and train Modern Apprentices (MAs). In practice, funds are given to employers to subsidise wages, making it easier for them to employ Fife College Apprentices. This innovative partnership between Fife College and Earlseat Wind Farm complements the existing work the College does to deliver one of the largest MA college contracts in Scotland. This example of private and public sector partnership benefits local people, local businesses and the local and national economy. Speaking at the site, days after the Prime Minister announced the new publicly funded clean energy company, GB Energy, was to be based in Scotland, Fife College Principal Jim Metcalfe said: “It’s so inspiring to see Fife College Modern Apprentices in action at Earlseat Wind Farm. “The College is dedicated to the skills needed for the future workforce to make the transition to clean energy. We are proud to be helping shape a cleaner, greener future for our economy – and ensuring well-paid, sustainable work for Fife’s communities. “This month, as the third-largest engineering modern apprenticeship provider in the country, we welcomed a record intake of 350 first-year modern apprentices. Working with a large number of employers, including wind farm operators RES at Earlseat, we can provide more opportunities than ever before for these talented apprentices to earn while they learn.” After touring the site and meeting with the Modern Apprentices, Glenrothes and Mid Fife MP Richard Baker said: “It is brilliant for Fife that such an innovative partnership has been developed between Fife College, TRIG and RES, providing opportunities for apprenticeships with local renewables firms. This is a fantastic way to secure community benefit from renewable energy generation in our area, investing in the skilled workforce we need to grow the renewables sector in Fife. “This collaboration between RES and Fife College provides an excellent model for collaborations to boost skills and innovation, and as GB Energy is established in Scotland I hope this will lead to more partnerships to boost renewables in Fife in the future.” Callum Whiteford, Head of Corporate Affairs at RES, who operate Earlseat Wind Farm on behalf of The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG), said: “This excellent training programme, funded by TRIG, has enabled our long-term partnership with Fife College to become a prime example of how the renewables industry can bring wider benefits to the local economy by supporting future careers, and how this can play an integral part in the wider transition to renewables. It is so rewarding to see the programme grow as apprentices are given the opportunity to thrive in such a variety of environments and we look forward to welcoming future intakes here on site at Earlseat.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HS2 Ltd boosted by new early careers intake

HS2 Ltd boosted by new early careers intake

HS2 Ltd has strengthened its future talent pool, welcoming a total of 44 new starters to its 2024 early careers programme. The intake of 26 graduates and 18 apprentices have joined the company across multiple office and site locations between the West Midlands and London. They join teams responsible for disciplines including project management, engineering, cyber security, procurement and surveying. Lasting up to two years, HS2 Ltd’s early careers courses are designed to provide participants with a breadth of business knowledge and construction-based experience – combining on-the-job training with portfolio-based learning. Karen Davis, Head of People Development at HS2 Ltd, said: “We’re delighted that our 44 new starters have chosen to begin their careers with HS2. They join us from a variety of backgrounds – from school and university leavers, to people who were looking for a change in career direction. “On-the-job learning through apprenticeships and graduate opportunities are invaluable in attracting and shaping the workforce of the future. As we continue ahead with peak construction, there has never been a more exciting time to jump on board with HS2.” Alongside their graduate or apprenticeship scheme, the new starters will also benefit from dedicated training and development aimed at boosting the core skills and behaviours needed in any business, such as self-awareness, emotional intelligence, innovation, resilience and presentation skills. 25-year-old Harry Fellows, from Solihull, is a project management graduate trainee. He said: “I am looking forward to getting involved in a project which will benefit the nation both socially and economically. I am excited to play my part in facilitating the project’s completion, no matter how big or small that part may be. “I am also excited to undertake my professional career with HS2 and the graduate scheme, helping to further develop myself personally and professionally whilst benefiting HS2 itself.” 23-year-old Maya Marmorato, from Greater London, is studying an apprenticeship in project management. She said: “I joined HS2 because of its visions and goals to increase travel capacity and reduce journey times across our country.  “If HS2 had been established during my upbringing, it would have significantly changed our lives. Joining HS2 is an honourable opportunity to create value for the future.”  Since the HS2 early careers programme began in 2017, 33 graduates and 66 apprentices have gone on to successfully secure permanent jobs helping to build Britain’s new railway. This adds to the 2,000 apprenticeships which are due to be created across HS2 Ltd and its supply chain over the lifecycle of the project. HS2, which is due to open between 2029 and 2033, is now at peak construction. More than 31,000 people and 3,200 UK businesses are currently supporting the delivery of the new high-speed rail line. Once operational, HS2 will almost halve the journey time between London Euston and Birmingham to just 49 minutes – with trains running further north via the existing rail network to destinations such as Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow.    HS2 Ltd’s annual early careers recruitment drive will begin again in January 2025. For more information about the career opportunities available with HS2 and its supply chain partners, visit https://www.hs2.org.uk/jobs-and-skills/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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FIR Culture Impact Report Reveals 32.7% Surge in Inclusivity Efforts Across the Built Environment

FIR Culture Impact Report Reveals 32.7% Surge in Inclusivity Efforts Across the Built Environment

Today, the Supply Chain Sustainability School (“the School”) has released the findings of the ninth annual Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) Culture Impact Report, showcasing significant growth and a positive impact of the FIR Programme within the built environment sector. The FIR Programme, delivered by the School and part-funded by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), offers comprehensive training, resources, and a network of FIR Ambassadors to help organisations embed fairness, inclusion, and respect in their workplace practices. Through workshops, webinars, e-learning modules, and a resource library, the programme equips individuals and businesses with essential knowledge and tools to enhance inclusivity and cultivate a positive working culture. This year’s FIR Culture Impact Survey revealed an impressive milestone, with 1,689 respondents – a 32.7% increase in participation compared to the previous year. This rise underscores the growing importance of the FIR mission within the industry and reflects heightened awareness of inclusivity efforts. Key findings from the 2024 FIR Culture Impact Survey indicate that 56% of respondents have engaged with the FIR Programme, with 39% joining within the last 12 months. This surge in engagement highlights the programme’s increasing relevance, particularly for newer entrants to the workforce discovering the benefits of FIR for the first time. The demographic composition of survey respondents continues to challenge traditional industry norms, signalling meaningful progress towards greater inclusivity. Notably, 48% of respondents identified as women, 9% disclosed a disability, and 15% represented non-white backgrounds, exceeding standard diversity benchmarks within the sector. The Role of FIR Ambassadors The survey further underscored the invaluable contribution of FIR Ambassadors, with 519 Ambassadors (31% of respondents) sharing insights about their experiences. Findings indicate that the Ambassador role correlates with higher engagement and job satisfaction: Quality and Impact of FIR Training Respondents praised the quality of FIR Training, with 90% providing positive feedback on workshops, webinars, and the FIR resource library. Furthermore, 92% of workshop attendees and 93% of webinar attendees reported an enhanced understanding of FIR principles. The FIR e-learning modules also demonstrated significant impact, with 93% reporting increased knowledge and 88% indicating that they applied knowledge from FIR resources in practical settings. Positive Impact on Individuals and Businesses The FIR Programme continues to have a strong impact on individuals, with an increasing number of respondents reporting positive experiences: At the business level, many organisations reported tangible improvements in key areas: Anonymous feedback from participants further highlights the FIR Programme’s influence. One participant shared, “The FIR Programme has given me a deeper understanding and knowledge base of issues that can affect my colleagues and the workforce that we supply to our clients.” For the full report, visit the Supply Chain Sustainability School website here. Explore the FIR Programme here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Grayson partners with St Edmunds Society to enhance education with cutting-edge training materials

Grayson partners with St Edmunds Society to enhance education with cutting-edge training materials

Grayson, a leading provider of construction consumables, is proud to announce a new partnership with St Edmunds Society (St Eds), a Norwich-based charity offering vocational training and employability skills training to young people aged 16-18. This collaboration aims to significantly enhance the learning experience for St Eds’ students by providing them with modern, up-to-date materials and equipment for training and teaching purposes. An award-winning charity, St Eds offers a diverse range of courses and qualifications, including City and Guilds Multi-Skills Construction (L1) in which students can gain skills in carpentry, bricklaying, painting and decorating, plastering, tiling and plumbing, with the opportunity to specialise in these areas in an industry-approved training environment. St Eds also works closely with local schools to support students who find mainstream education challenging. Recognising the high-need nature of St Eds’ student cohort, the institution has a robust welfare team in place, providing extensive emotional and mental support beyond what is typically available in traditional schools and colleges, ensuring that students receive the care and guidance they need to succeed both academically and personally. Through this partnership, Grayson has supplied St Eds’ construction department with state-of-the-art equipment and materials, including those for cavity wall construction and other specialised techniques used on-site. This contribution has enabled St Eds to expand its curriculum, offering more enrichment activities that go beyond standard qualification requirements. As a result, students can gain a deeper insight into the construction industry and hands-on experience with materials and techniques that are crucial for their future careers. In addition to supplying equipment, Grayson works closely with the staff at St Eds to keep them up-to-date on the latest products and techniques, elevating the quality of education and ensuring that both tutors and students are well-acquainted with the modern materials currently used onsite. Grayson also recently sponsored the Construction Student of the Year Award at St Eds’ graduation ceremony in July. Katie Wills, Grayson’s Regional Manager for the South, attended the ceremony to recognise the hard work of the emerging talent and proudly presented the award to the deserving student. “The tutors are thrilled with the new resources provided by Grayson,” says Heidi Duhig, Fundraising Manager at St Eds. “These are tools and materials we wouldn’t typically have access to due to budget constraints, and they allow us to provide a more comprehensive and engaging learning experience for our students. Thanks to Grayson’s support, we can now expose our students to a broader range of construction skills and knowledge, better preparing them for their future careers.” Gary Smith, Lead Construction Tutor at St Eds, comments: “We have been able to develop our teaching methods with the resources that Grayson has been giving us. We are using realistic profiles on one model now, rather than using wooden profiles. Cavity walling is more realistic with the cavity stop socks they have generously given us, along with the lintels, cavity trays and weep holes.” By partnering with St Eds, Grayson is helping to ensure that the next generation of tradespeople are equipped with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to succeed in the industry. Tony Higson, Managing Director at Grayson, adds: “We are incredibly proud to support St Edmunds Society in their mission to provide alternative education and practical training to young people. By equipping students with the latest materials and tools, we are helping to create a solid foundation for their future careers in construction. It’s essential that these students have access to the best resources, and we’re delighted to be a part of their journey.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Northern Flexi Job Apprenticeship agency swoops double win at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Northern Flexi Job Apprenticeship agency swoops double win at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 

CELEBRATIONS are in full swing as northern flexi-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures secures two prestigious accolades at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.   Part of Efficiency North Holdings, EN:Able Futures has grown into a leading flexi-job apprenticeship agency over the past decade, unlocking opportunities for young people across the north of England in the construction and built environment sector through high-quality apprenticeships.   To date, the agency has empowered more than 500 apprentices to become career-ready, providing first-class support and training, and helping to address the skills gap in the industry. Last week (Thursday, 19 September), the agency was named SME Employer of the Year, while apprentice Liam Mansbridge, hosted by Termrim Construction Ltd, won Higher Apprentice of the Year.   Another EN:Able Futures apprentice, Harvey Dobson, hosted by Alan Wood & Partners, was also a finalist in the Advanced Apprentice of the Year category, further showcasing the talent fostered by the service.   Julie Deeley, director of operations at EN:Able Futures, said: “This double win is an incredible achievement for EN:Able Futures and a testament to the dedication and passion of our team, apprentices, and host partners alike.   “Liam’s success as Higher Apprentice of the Year and our recognition as SME Employer of the Year highlight the transformative work we’re doing to deliver life-changing opportunities to the young people of the region. Our apprentices, like Liam and Harvey, are at the heart of what we do, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see their efforts recognised on such a prestigious stage. “At EN:Able Futures, we strive to shape the future of the construction industry by investing in people, talent, and potential. These awards validate the positive impact of our work and reaffirm our commitment to providing valuable pathways to ensure young professionals are equipped to succeed.”   To find out more about EN:Able Futures, please visit: https://www.efficiencynorth.org/futures/find-an-apprenticeship Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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construction partners create state-of-the-art workshop for students

Construction partners create state-of-the-art workshop for students

A housing association-led partnership has transformed two college classrooms into cutting-edge workshops, designed to inspire students to join the construction sector. Hartlepool College of Further Education unveiled its new construction workshops to students on Tuesday, following its transformation by be:ONE partners. The be:ONE partnership was launched in April by believe housing, with contractors Buston & Maughan Group, RE:GEN Group, Sendrig Construction Limited and Sunter Limited, to deliver improvements to around 5,600 of its homes by 2028. The collaboration sees the partners work together to improve customer experience, achieve significant savings, and maximise the impact of social value in communities. There is also a strong focus on supporting the local economy and employment and reducing their impact on the environment. To deliver its first significant social value project, partners and suppliers gave 635 hours and donated more than £8,000 of materials to refurbish the workshops, which are kitted out with fit-for-industry equipment. Ruth Dent, Director of Assets and Compliance at believe housing, said: “The college does a fantastic job of giving students the skills and knowledge they need to get ready for a career in construction; in roles that are increasingly vital for building the new homes we need, maintaining and decarbonising existing homes, and supporting the regional economy. “We wanted to help make its learning spaces even more inspiring, and the be:ONE partners have pulled out all the stops to transform the workshop into the bright, well-equipped facility they deserve. “I’m deeply grateful to the partners for their hard work and enthusiasm and to suppliers Jewson, JTC Kitchens and Brewers Decorating for generously donating materials to the project. “I’m honoured that the college has let us help shape the students’ time at college and look forward to continuing to support them; maybe in the not-too-distant future some of them will be working for believe housing or our construction partners, helping us maintain and improve customers’ homes and supporting the local economy and jobs. “Together, we’ve created workshops that will help many young people to realise their potential, to succeed in our competitive world, and open doors to careers they might have never thought possible. “The skills learnt here will not only benefit the students but will also benefit the businesses they go on to work for and the communities they return to.” John Cartwright, Head of Business Growth and Skills at Hartlepool College of Further Education, said: “Planning a further education curriculum that maps into the construction industry is extremely difficult due to the ever-changing industry landscape. “Creating an inspiring educational environment that will support and ‘transform students’ lives’ is also difficult, due to cuts in education budgets and a severe lack of funds. “Working with Ruth Dent and the huge team of be:ONE partners has been a brilliant experience for us. “The college has gained not just brilliant, high-end workshops, but we have also partnered with some of the best industry employers in the region which will provide rich information from the sector to support the growth of our learners’ knowledge, skills and behaviours. “We are very fortunate to be part of this partnership and close links between all members have already been forged. “Our learners and staff will cherish these facilities that have been designed and built by industry with them in mind. “We can’t wait for our learners to show off their new skills in these fantastic facilities and look forward to the start of what plans to be a fabulous partnership.” One student said: “I love what they’re doing at Hartlepool college. They’re giving me a real stepping stone to how it works in the real world when I get a job.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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