Business : Training & Skills News
Masonry Mentors 2025: Grayson and Oaklands College partner to forge a legacy event addressing the construction skills shortage

Masonry Mentors 2025: Grayson and Oaklands College partner to forge a legacy event addressing the construction skills shortage

Grayson is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Oaklands College for the inaugural Masonry Mentors 2025 event, a groundbreaking bricklaying pilot designed to inspire and develop the next generation of construction talent. Co-developed by Grayson and Oaklands College, the concept was conceived by FE legend Bob Noseda, with support from

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From apprentice to director: Beard’s commitment to developing young talent highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week

From apprentice to director: Beard’s commitment to developing young talent highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week

A long-serving director at family-owned contractor Beard says the company’s commitment to developing young talent plays a vital role in supporting their growth ambitions.   Dean Averies joined the Wiltshire-headquartered company as a 16-year-old trainee in 1988, after writing without success to some 50 other firms seeking an apprenticeship opportunity.  Since

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Apprenticeships are for everyone – not just those leaving school

Apprenticeships are for everyone – not just those leaving school

STANDFIRST / PfP Thrive is a new initiative from Places for People, the UK’s largest social enterprise. Drawing on its extensive insight into the UK housing sector, Places for People has identified skill gaps in key trades and developed a range of training programmes to address them. These programmes aim

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BiKBBI CEO reacts to Government review on construction skills

BiKBBI CEO reacts to Government review on construction skills

The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) has today issued a statement responding to the recently published Government review, Transforming The Construction Workforce, authored by Mark Farmer, CEO of Cast. Farmer, a previous speaker at BiKBBI’s annual conference, has once again highlighted critical issues facing the construction

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Reaching for the sky – BCU students to get mentoring from company constructing Birmingham’s tallest building

Reaching for the sky – BCU students to get mentoring from company constructing Birmingham’s tallest building

Five quantity surveying students at Birmingham City University (BCU) will take their careers to new heights thanks to the award-winning company building Birmingham’s tallest skyscraper.  Court Collaboration, which is constructing the 155-metre tall One Eastside on James Watt Queensway, will advise and guide the quintet to help prepare them for

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Comprehensive free learning platform launches for UK electrical apprentices

Comprehensive free learning platform launches for UK electrical apprentices

Electrical Safety First is proud to champion the launch of ACE:Electrical (the Apprentice Channel of Excellence), a groundbreaking new platform offering free, high-quality teaching and learning resources for all UK electrical apprentices. This innovative channel, hosted on Learning Lounge, aims to empower the next generation of electricians with the skills

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Latest Issue
Issue 325 : Feb 2025

Business : Training & Skills News

Dandara Helps Plug The Skills Gap To ‘Get Britain Building’ Through Management Training Scheme

Dandara Helps Plug The Skills Gap To ‘Get Britain Building’ Through Management Training Scheme

As National Apprenticeship Week (10–16 February) approaches, independent housebuilder Dandara is highlighting a range of trainee schemes for those interested in a career in the housebuilding industry. This initiative is part of Dandara’s ongoing commitment to helping the UK close its skills gap and inspire the next generation. While the UK government has planned to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years[1], the latest Construction Skills Network report forecasts that there is a need for 251,500 extra construction workers by 2028 to meet the anticipated levels of work[2]. Amid concerns regarding a lack of trained professionals to help reach the target, Dandara has established a trainee programme to guarantee newcomers the proper training and qualifications needed for the future. Dandara’s trainee scheme include an initial three-year programme designed to deliver skills and qualification-based experience, rotating between all departments.  Provided a trainee stays with Dandara two years after completing their traineeship, their tuition and qualifications costs will be taken care of as they continue to study and work on the job. Alison Murphy, Learning & Development Manager at Dandara, commented: “The skills gap is a major challenge we face as a housebuilder. The boom for housing and Government ambition to build 1.5 million homes is there, but the most crucial element driving the whole project is missing – the workforce to deliver these ambitions. “As National Apprenticeship Week beckons, we want to support those trying to plug this skills gap by offering schemes such as our management programme. The scheme is designed for anyone looking to leave education right through to those looking to change careers. Investment into people and training the next generation is the key to unlocking the UK’s housing targets and we are here to help anyone who is passionate to kickstart their career. Creating opportunities for people to bring their skills, enthusiasm and passion to the industry encompasses the ethos behind our trainee schemes, and we equip all our newcomers with quality training for a career at Dandara.” Harry Collins, an apprentice on Dandara’s trainee management scheme, adds: “Each department has a designated mentor overseeing my activities, and Dandara has structured the programme exceptionally well. Although moving between departments might seem stressful, the process has been seamless so far, and the apprenticeship has provided me with valuable experience and a deeper understanding of the company. The range of experience and the opportunity to fully immerse myself in different departments have given me a much clearer idea of the housebuilding industry, and I am looking forward to seeing what the next few years have in store.” To find out more about Dandara’s trainee schemes, please visit https://careers.dandara.com/page/traineeschemes or call 01908 036 284 [1] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-homes-fact-sheet-1-the-need-for-homes/fact-sheet-1-the-need-for-homes [2] https://www.citb.co.uk/about-citb/construction-industry-research-reports/construction-skills-network-csn/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Masonry Mentors 2025: Grayson and Oaklands College partner to forge a legacy event addressing the construction skills shortage

Masonry Mentors 2025: Grayson and Oaklands College partner to forge a legacy event addressing the construction skills shortage

Grayson is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Oaklands College for the inaugural Masonry Mentors 2025 event, a groundbreaking bricklaying pilot designed to inspire and develop the next generation of construction talent. Co-developed by Grayson and Oaklands College, the concept was conceived by FE legend Bob Noseda, with support from brickwork training icon Peter Roberts and Construction Curriculum Manager, Andy Rosser. The event is set to take place on Monday 10th February 2025 at Oaklands College in Hertfordshire, fittingly coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week 2025. Pairing full-time students with experienced bricklayer mentors from some of the UK’s leading brickwork subcontractors, teams will participate in a 6-hour challenge, with each member completing 50% of the task. Afterward, they will answer a series of trade-related questions, testing both their practical and theoretical knowledge. Masonry Mentors aims to inspire and equip young apprentices with the skills, confidence and passion to succeed in the industry, ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of the sector’s workforce. Kevin Jagg, Grayson’s Operations Director, says: “We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with Oaklands College to lead the first Masonry Mentors event. It not only showcases the incredible talent within our industry but also highlights the importance of mentorship and partnership in shaping the future of bricklaying. Ensuring vital skills and knowledge are passed on to the next generation, events like this are crucial in addressing the skills shortage and building a strong, sustainable future for the construction sector.” Bob Noseda, Sector Skills Advisor, adds: “From the moment I approached Tony and Kevin, Grayson has been phenomenal. Masonry Mentors is a new competition concept that pairs full-time students and qualified bricklayers, bringing education and industry together to address the skills shortage.” By investing in initiatives like Masonry Mentors, Grayson is playing an integral role in fostering excellence within the sector and helping to bridge the gap between education and real-world experience. Masonry Mentors 2025 marks the exciting start of what Bob Noseda envisions as a lasting tradition, one that will continually bring together apprentices and experienced time-served tradespeople in a fun, dynamic and educational environment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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From apprentice to director: Beard’s commitment to developing young talent highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week

From apprentice to director: Beard’s commitment to developing young talent highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week

A long-serving director at family-owned contractor Beard says the company’s commitment to developing young talent plays a vital role in supporting their growth ambitions.   Dean Averies joined the Wiltshire-headquartered company as a 16-year-old trainee in 1988, after writing without success to some 50 other firms seeking an apprenticeship opportunity.  Since then, he has progressed from school leaver to estimator, surveyor, contracts manager, construction director and leader of Swindon-based Beard’s 110-strong Oxford team.   Dean’s 22-year-old son Corey is following in his father’s footsteps as a carpenter having joined Beard as an apprentice six years ago.    Beard confirmed its continued commitment for supporting young talent during National Apprenticeship  which kicks off on 10 February.   Dean said: “When I left school in 1988, careers advice was limited, and I had no idea what roles existed in construction.   “I sent hand-written letters to companies, and Beard was the only one to offer me a chance. Their support for young people was unusual at the time, as many other companies were asking for degrees.  “Had Beard not supported me, I don’t think I would be working in construction today. The support I received – through on-the-job training, professional qualifications, and career development – shaped my entire career.   “I’m proud to see the company continuing that legacy with a new generation of apprentices.”  Tackling the skills shortage   At a time when the construction sector faces a critical skills shortage, with estimates predicting that the industry needs more than 250,000 extra workers by 2028, Beard continues to offer young people opportunities to build lasting careers.   The business currently supports 10 employees on degree apprenticeships and a further four in apprenticeship roles.   Melissa Barber, Beard’s head of people and communications, added: “Dean’s story is a great example of why investing in young people has always been important to us.   “The skills shortage in construction is well-known and we must take big steps to train, support, and retain talent at all ages.   “Apprenticeships have always been an important part of this ambition. I look forward to us developing the next group of committed apprenticeships who can expect a fulfilling and rewarding career in this industry.”   Beard is one of the few contractors that directly employs apprentices from age 16, providing a vital entry route into the industry at a time when many firms require prior qualifications or higher education.   The firm also actively engages schools and colleges to improve careers advice and showcase the range of roles available in construction.  Dean added: “Beard took a chance on me as a teenager. Now, in my role as director, I see it as my responsibility to do the same for the next generation. It is also an important part of helping a business like ours to continue to grow.   “Those joining us today are the next generation of industry leaders. We need to do everything possible to attract, develop and retain them.”  To find out more about Beard’s apprenticeship and career opportunities, visit https://www.beardconstruction.co.uk/careers.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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nine apprenticeships created in first year of housing association-led partnership

nine apprenticeships created in first year of housing association-led partnership

An innovative partnership led by a northeast housing association is creating opportunities for people to start their career in construction as an apprentice. Nine roles have already been created through the be:ONE partnership, which was established by believe housing in April 2024 to deliver internal and external improvements to around 5,600 of its homes over a four-year period. The not-for-profit landlord and contractors Buston & Maughan, RE:GEN Group, Sendrig Construction Limited and Sunter Limited made a series of commitments as part of the contract. One key aim is to boost the local economy and employment, by creating new jobs and apprenticeships and supporting business growth. And in the first year, all the partners have hired new apprentices to work on the contract. Buston & Maughan recently took on Brooke Hawes as an electrical apprentice, Robert Kirsopp is an apprentice joiner with Sendrig, and property maintenance trainee Scott Hutchinson is gaining a wide range of experience with Sunters. RE:GEN has six apprentices working on the contract; apprentice site manager Joseph Quigley, apprentice quantity surveyors Luke Bell, Joe Freeman, Ben Turnbull and Charlotte Kendal, and apprentice joiner Jack Robinson. David Taylor, Assistant Director of Major Works at believe housing, said: “be:ONE is not only about improving the homes of thousands of our customers but also ensuring the benefits of our investment reach the wider community. “I’m delighted for the apprentices who have secured roles with our be:ONE partners and hope they all go on to enjoy successful and fulfilling careers. “It is always good to see new people joining the social housing and construction sectors, boosting the workforce needed to build and maintain homes and support the growth of the UK and regional economy.” Jonathan Horner, Managing Director at RE:GEN North East, said: “We are a purpose-driven organisation focused on enhancing lives through safe, sustainable social housing regeneration. “Our work goes beyond just improving homes; it extends to creating jobs and training opportunities that benefit individuals and communities. “Being part of the be:ONE partnership and receiving long-term investment from believe housing gives us the confidence to create valuable apprenticeship roles, which are essential for the future growth of the housing and construction sectors. “The benefits of true partnership working are clear and it’s great to see so many people gaining from it.” The be:ONE partnership was created with support from procurement experts, Prosper. The partners also collaborate to improve customer experience, achieve significant savings, and maximise the impact of social value in communities. And they work together to cut carbon emissions, reduce waste, and increase recycling.   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Apprenticeships are for everyone – not just those leaving school

Dedicated Bricklaying apprentice travels 161 miles to complete apprenticeship programme

A Nottinghamshire apprentice who battles a six hour journey to complete his apprenticeship training, part-based in Newcastle, has spoken about his career transformation after enrolling on the course. 21-year-old Riordan ‘Rio’ Keetley is currently undertaking a Level 2 Bricklaying apprenticeship at the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) Training Hub in Scotswood, Newcastle. Rio travels the 161 miles for his training block weeks to the Training Hub by train from his home in Nottingham to pursue his career and achieve a nationally recognised qualification. Before starting his apprenticeship in March last year, Rio worked a number of jobs, including being a waiter, a hospital cleaner and a CCTV operator but he was left feeling unsettled about his future. Rio chose the apprenticeship route over traditional college or university education because he wanted to learn a practical skill that would serve him for life. He explains: “Construction has always interested me but I struggled to find an apprenticeship initially. I finished school during lockdown and the restrictions meant opportunities were limited.  “I took on various jobs in the meantime, becoming a bit of a jack-of-all-trades. Then, a family member told me about apprenticeship opportunities at Keepmoat, and I knew this was the chance I had been waiting for. “The apprentice programme with a reputable house builder such as Keepmoat was exactly what I needed. It’s really rewarding to learn a valuable skill, help the community, and know I’m building a great future for myself. The travel is a small price to pay for such an amazing opportunity. I’m excited to see where this career takes me.” Rio’s apprenticeship includes tailored and immersive training at the NHBC Training Hub, covering both theory and practical skills before working on site. Rio is developing his skills at Park View, a Keepmoat development in Gedling, Nottinghamshire which will deliver 400 homes. He adds: “I enjoy the physical nature of the job and knowing that what I’m doing is making a difference. It’s satisfying to watch the hard work pay off and use my NHBC industry leading training to see something built the right way by a hard working team. My apprenticeship has given me confidence, independence, and a clear path forward. I’m proud of myself and what I’ve accomplished so far.” Geoff Scott, Social Value Manager at Keepmoat, comments: “The team is extremely pleased with Riordan’s progression throughout his apprenticeship. He’s a great team player, who is both dedicated and hard working. Our apprenticeship schemes are a testament to Keepmoat’s commitment to delivering key skilled workers into the talent pipeline in the face of a skills shortage. “It is a privilege to see our apprentices thrive in their roles and become part of the next generation of much-needed bricklayers and we look forward to seeing them progress and succeed in the industry.’’ Roger Morton, Director of NHBC’s apprentice training programme and hubs, said; “It’s fantastic to see how Riordan is thriving at the NHBC Training Hub in Newcastle. Our hubs are not only creating a local supply of talent for the house-building industry but also making a significant positive impact on the lives of apprentices. “Bricklaying is at the heart of house building and is a vital skill. Through our existing training hubs and our £100 million investment in a national network of 12 new multi-skill hubs, NHBC is committed to supporting the next generation of housebuilders. Our industry-leading, recognised training equips apprentices like Riordan with the skills he needs to deliver high-quality new homes. “By immersing apprentices in real site conditions from day one, we fully prepare them for life on site. Quality drives everything we do and our tailored approach is enabling Riordan and other apprentices to qualify in just 14 to 18 months, with many achieving distinctions. That’s nearly twice as fast as traditional education routes, which can take up to 30 months.” Keepmoat is a top 10 UK partnership homebuilder with a track record of delivering quality new homes across the UK at prices people can afford. To date, almost 70 percent of its current developments are on brownfield sites. For more information, please visit www.keepmoat.com.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Apprenticeships are for everyone – not just those leaving school

Apprenticeships are for everyone – not just those leaving school

STANDFIRST / PfP Thrive is a new initiative from Places for People, the UK’s largest social enterprise. Drawing on its extensive insight into the UK housing sector, Places for People has identified skill gaps in key trades and developed a range of training programmes to address them. These programmes aim to futureproof the industry by equipping individuals with new skill sets while creating employment opportunities for local communities. PfP Thrive provides the essential, in-demand skills of today that will help shape successful futures tomorrow. Its offerings include apprenticeships, technical and future skills programmes, organisational development, and housing qualifications. Among Places for People most recent apprentice cohorts is Samantha Turner, who, after a decade in hospitality, was eager to make a career change. Today, Samantha is on the verge of completing her apprenticeship with PfP Thrive, with her End Point Assessment fast approaching. In this article, she reflects on her experiences over the past two years and explains why she would wholeheartedly recommend the programme to others. “It was the best feeling in the world!” I’m very lucky to be where I am today and getting my job with PfP really was the best feeling in the world!  I’m in a very different place than when I started. I spent the last ten years working in hospitality – a sector that honestly wasn’t for me! I was itching for change, so when I saw the PfP advert I decided to take the plunge.  I knew straight away that an apprenticeship would be perfect; I’ve always been very hands-on. I love painting, decorating, mending things, and fixing things and have always been drawn to that over a more academic path.  I began the apprenticeship in 2022, at 30 years old, and I think I was one of the oldest to do it, but I’ve felt so welcome. It’s a reminder that apprenticeships are for everyone, not just those leaving school. Mentored by the Best My journey so far has been great. It began with a week of online learning, covering health and safety and standard procedures. Then came the practical elements, for which I was lucky to be paired with Dave Ure, an incredibly well-established joiner who’s given me the best experience I could wish for. Dave’s worked in the industry for years and knows everything there is to know about joinery – teaching me pretty much everything I know today.  As a responsive worker, his department focuses on tenant homes, so I quickly got used to interacting with customers, which has been a valuable experience. Dave is methodical and hardworking, and I’ve adopted this approach in my own work. I’ve always been proactive and taken pride in what I do, but when it’s something you love, it feels amazing. I think having the contrast of ten years of work I didn’t enjoy makes me grateful every day that I’m doing what I love.  Places for People is a fantastic company to work with, and the apprenticeship is a brilliant opportunity to learn with a supportive and efficient team. Throughout the programme, I had three monthly check-ins with Brittney from the Skills Academy, and monthly ‘Toolbox Talks’ with my line manager Derek, along with the freedom to speak to him whenever I needed. You’re well looked after here. A Day in the Life What’s so great about this job is the variety of work. It covers such a broad range of skills. One day I could be painting, the next I might be replacing floors or hanging doors. My absolute favourite task is fitting kitchens and transforming a blank canvas into something amazing makes me feel incredibly proud. You can see the progress with every fixture, and I absolutely love it. After a few months with Dave, I moved to the Voids department to work with Barry Horne, who’s also been a brilliant mentor. He’s taught me a lot about plumbing and shared so much knowledge with me and really helped me get to where I am today.  Voids is slightly different because the homes are empty, so we sometimes spend a bit more time doing multiple jobs at once. It’s less pressured than working in homes with customers, which allowed me to get more hands-on. Both experiences have been fantastic and have given me the skills to work in either department. As time went on, I was able to take on more responsibility, even completing jobs with another apprentice on our own. This really boosted my confidence, although it was a bit daunting at times! These experiences remind me how capable I am and that this is what I want to continue doing in the future. A Bright Future I’ll soon take my End Point Assessment, so my focus is on that right now. I’m not sure what will come after, but I’d love to continue working here as a joiner or take a Level 3 qualification in advanced joinery. I’m open to where the journey takes me, but I know I’m on the right track, doing what I love every day and learning all the time. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this apprenticeship to anyone interested in joinery. It’s a fantastic platform to learn everything you need to know and hopefully start a fulfilling career. There’s also a new apprenticeship that covers both joinery and carpentry, so there are plenty of options for anyone keen to work in the industry. For anyone looking to create apprenticeships for people who want to pursue a career in joinery, PfP Thrive offers a range of packages to support businesses in bringing new talent into the sector. Find out more here: https://www.placesforpeople.co.uk/pfp-thrive/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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BiKBBI CEO reacts to Government review on construction skills

BiKBBI CEO reacts to Government review on construction skills

The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) has today issued a statement responding to the recently published Government review, Transforming The Construction Workforce, authored by Mark Farmer, CEO of Cast. Farmer, a previous speaker at BiKBBI’s annual conference, has once again highlighted critical issues facing the construction industry. The review assesses the effectiveness of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB). It aims to determine if these boards should continue to exist, and if so, in what form and function. Key Findings: Strategic Recommendations: Operational Recommendations: Governance and Accountability: Conclusion: The review concludes that a transformed ITB model is essential to address the critical workforce challenges facing the construction and engineering construction sectors. The proposed changes aim to create a more competent, productive, and resilient workforce capable of meeting future demands. BiKBBI CEO, Damian Walters, expressed his continuing concern regarding the findings of the review, particularly the ongoing labour shortage that continues to plague the industry. “Despite numerous efforts and initiatives, our industry has yet to resolve the labour shortage issues that threaten our capacity to support future economic and industry growth,” said Walters. “The ageing workforce and the struggle to accommodate new entrants are significant challenges that require immediate and coordinated action.” Walters went on to say: “There is no shortage of interest from the younger generation to take up a career in KBB installation, despite popular belief. There is a misconception that all youth want to do is become TikTok famous, but I can assure you that this is simply not the case. BiKBBI has engaged thousands of education leavers and there is a pipeline of talent waiting for an opportunity. The issue we have is that our part of the industry is dominated by micro-SME’s and these businesses either lack an appetite to take on an apprentice, or more importantly aren’t supported enough to do so. The Apprenticeship Levy and changes to how this can be spent may just unlock the potential, but the Government must stop nodding and start the process of change”. The review’s recommendations for a radical overhaul of the Industry Training Board model is welcomed by BiKBBI, and the institute is committed to working collaboratively with industry stakeholders to implement these changes. “We must modernise our approach to training and workforce development to ensure we can meet the demands of the future,” Walters added. BiKBBI remains dedicated to improving standards and efficiency within the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom installation sector and will continue to advocate for solutions that address the workforce challenges identified in the review. The full version of Transforming The Construction Workforce, authored by Mark Farmer can be accessed- HERE. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Seriously remote working – applications open for jobs in Antarctica

Seriously remote working – applications open for jobs in Antarctica

This Blue Monday (20 January), escape the ordinary and apply for the job of a lifetime in Antarctica. British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is looking for people to work at its research stations in Antarctica in a range of roles. Carpenters, chefs, electricians, plumbers, boating officers, plant operators and more are encouraged to apply for a job that offers the opportunity of a lifetime. It’s a job unlike any other and an experience that will provide lifelong memories. Successful applicants will work in some of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth, building lifelong friendships and contributing to science that’s critical for understanding our changing world. Eloise Saville is a carpenter at Halley VI Research Station, which sits on an ice shelf and is the furthest south of the BAS research stations. This is her first season in Antarctica. “This job is unlike anything I’ve ever done before. I scrape ice off wood, drive skidoos and build things in one of the most extreme places on Earth, yet it’s funny how quickly it all feels normal. The people here are some of the most interesting and adventurous that I’ve met, and yet they’re normal too! If I’d known this was an option earlier, I’d have been working my way down here all along. It’s not just cold, it’s cool!” It’s an experience that leaves a lot of people wanting more. Ben Norrish, Head of Vehicles, joined BAS in 2001 as a Mobile Plant Technician. He has since returned to Antarctica many times, having spent 16 Antarctic seasons living and working on the ice. “There’s something special about Antarctica and the people that adventure there that gets under your skin. No matter how many times you go, when you step off the ship or aeroplane into Antarctica, you look up and take in where you are. That feeling of being in an amazing place is that same now as it was the first time. I would say to anyone who’s even a bit curious about what it’s like to live on the ice, take the leap and apply for the job of a lifetime – you won’t regret it and you don’t know where it might take you!” Looking out the window of your workplace and watching icebergs, whales and penguins is an experience that never gets old. Olivier Hubert, who is now a Catering Manager at BAS, was a chef in a Michelin-starred restaurant before deciding he was ready for a change of scene. He has over-wintered at Rothera Research Station and spent a summer at Halley VI Research Station. “Being a chef in Antarctica is a very different experience to anything I’ve ever done before. Meals are such an important part of life down South – they’re the anchors to the day so the pressure is on to create interesting and nutritious meals with limited supplies. But it’s such a privilege to cook for the team that become your family while you’re there – plus the views from the kitchen are pretty epic!” BAS is a world leader in polar research and operations. Its research highlights the fragility of the Earth’s frozen environments, and what that means for us and our planet. BAS scientists discovered the hole in the ozone layer and identified key evidence for climate change in ancient ice. It provides the UK’s national polar capability by operating research stations, aircraft and Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough, supporting science at the poles and securing the UK’s presence in Antarctic affairs. The first batch of the jobs – including diving officer, meteorological observer and ocean scientist are now on the BAS website at bas.ac.uk/vacancies. Applicants should check the specific job advert for the relevant closing date, with contracts starting anytime between May and September. We will continue to post more vacancies, including chefs, vehicle mechanics and zoological field assistants over the next three months. Contracts run from six to 18 months and are flexible. Salaries start at £29,273 per annum, with a benefits package. It’s worth noting there are no external costs whilst living on station as all living expenses are covered – accommodation, food, travel, specialist clothing, tools and training. Want to know more about what it’s like to live and work in Antarctica? Check out our podcast Iceworld to hear stories from people working in these roles on the ice. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Reaching for the sky – BCU students to get mentoring from company constructing Birmingham’s tallest building

Reaching for the sky – BCU students to get mentoring from company constructing Birmingham’s tallest building

Five quantity surveying students at Birmingham City University (BCU) will take their careers to new heights thanks to the award-winning company building Birmingham’s tallest skyscraper.  Court Collaboration, which is constructing the 155-metre tall One Eastside on James Watt Queensway, will advise and guide the quintet to help prepare them for the workplace.  “We’re extremely proud to be launching this student mentoring initiative as part of our ongoing partnership with BCU,” said Court Collaboration CEO Alex Neale.  “It’s an honour to help nurture some of the next generation of professionals in this way.”  The students are undertaking final-year dissertations that closely align with critical issues in the construction and housing sectors.  These include the UK housing crisis, off-site manufacturing, cost assurance in construction, regulatory compliance, and contract management in social housing refurbishment.    “We’ve been inspired by the group’s knowledge and passion, so we’re very much looking forward to supporting them on their journey,” added Neale, a BCU graduate himself.  “These young minds will not only benefit Court Collaboration developments but will also go on to innovate and push boundaries across the entire industry, both regionally and beyond.”  Against a fitting backdrop of the Birmingham skyline, the students recently visited Court Collaboration’s offices in the city centre to present their research scope.   They were then matched with mentors who will provide insights and access to data, facilitate interviews, and guide them in shaping their dissertations to address real-world challenges.   “This collaboration develops mutual learning,” said Dr Saeed Talebi, Associate Professor in BCU’s College of Built Environment.  “Court Collaboration will gain impactful knowledge they can potentially utilise to create actionable solutions, while mentors gain fresh perspectives from the students’ research.  “While our students will develop crucial problem-solving skills – finding innovative ways to address complex, practical problems – that will prepare them for future professional roles.”  Student Ria Curtis will focus her project on social housing repairs and maintenance.  “Working on a business brief will allow me to deepen my understanding of real-world challenges and develop my experience in the workplace,” she said.  “The combination of academic learning and practical application on my course is equipping me with the tools I need to take on greater responsibilities. I’m gaining the critical leadership and strategic thinking skills for my aspirations to become a Chartered Surveyor.”  This latest initiative builds on the work that BCU and Court Collaboration have already been doing together on the One Eastside project, which is due for completion in 2026.  They joined forces to create a virtual 3D model or ‘digital twin’ of the skyscraper that will use artificial intelligence to analyse data from air quality and energy consumption sensors to keep residents of the 667 apartments safe and healthy.    This aligns with the three core pillars of BCU’s newly launched 2030 Strategy:  Professor Nick Morton, BCU Associate Dean for the Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and the Built Environment, said: “BCU has made a strategic commitment to ‘Develop the Talent for Tomorrow’ in its new institutional strategy.   “Our partnership with Court Collaboration enables Built Environment students to work directly with industry at the cutting edge of knowledge and innovation. It also provides the best possible opportunity to nurture that talent for the future.”  Read more about the One Eastside research project.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Comprehensive free learning platform launches for UK electrical apprentices

Comprehensive free learning platform launches for UK electrical apprentices

Electrical Safety First is proud to champion the launch of ACE:Electrical (the Apprentice Channel of Excellence), a groundbreaking new platform offering free, high-quality teaching and learning resources for all UK electrical apprentices. This innovative channel, hosted on Learning Lounge, aims to empower the next generation of electricians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their careers. Accessible excellence for apprentices From January 10, UK electrical apprentices enrolled with approved training providers will have access to an ever-expanding library of modular, bite-sized content at no cost. Designed to complement hands-on learning, ACE:Electrical delivers expert-led modules covering key industry topics, from electrical protection systems to health and safety legislation. New content will be added weekly, ensuring apprentices always have fresh resources to enhance their understanding and technical skills. Industry icons and rising stars ACE:Electrical is brought to life by a team of exceptional presenters, with Dave Austin, a revered figure in the electrical industry being joined by two rising stars: Veronica Jennings, winner of the Electrical Apprentice of the Year in 2022, and James Whelehan, a qualified electrician and QS. Together, they offer an engaging mix of experience and relatability, making the content both inspiring and accessible. Tutor support and licensing options ACE:Electrical isn’t just for apprentices. Electrical tutors at approved training centres can access a suite of tools to elevate their teaching. With a centre licence, tutors can monitor student progress, direct learners to specific modules, and seamlessly integrate ACE content into classroom lessons. This dual approach ensures that both apprentices and educators benefit from the platform’s extensive resources. Building outstanding electricians The mission of ACE:Electrical is clear: to help create a new generation of outstanding electricians. By offering free, expert-led resources to apprentices and invaluable teaching tools to tutors, the platform bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. What’s coming throughout January and FebruaryThe initial content roll-out for ACE:Electrical includes: Enrol today Apprentices and tutors can enrol now by visiting ace.learninglounge.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to access a transformative learning resource that is shaping the next generation of electrical professionals. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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