Leeds College of Building is celebrating the National T Levels Week, a celebration of the successful new two-year vocational training programme, with the introduction of the Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction T Level course. T Levels are qualifications for people aged between 16 and 19, who, after their GCSEs,
Bouygues UK has been shortlisted in the ‘STEM Educational Programme of the Year (Private Sector)’ Category of the Wales STEM Awards. The only construction company in the 34 named as finalists, Bouygues UK was nominated for its STEM schools programme of activity, which includes its ‘Girls Believe Academy’. This innovative
PfP Capital, the Social Value and ESG-focused real estate fund manager, part of the UK’s leading social enterprise Places for People, has appointed Catherine Webster as its new Chief Executive Officer. Catherine, who starts at PfP Capital in January 2023, joins from property development and investment specialist Quintain where she is Executive Director for Strategy and Investment, leading on business
Boutique developer Life Less Ordinary has created five significant new roles, further expanding its workforce to deliver more homes. The move comes as it looks forward to continued growth with an appetite to see its output increase to a residential development value of over £50 million next year. In what
GMI Construction Group has been appointed by University College Birmingham to develop a state-of-the-art sustainable construction skills centre in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. The project, located in the Jewellery Quarter’s Conservation Area, will see GMI regenerate the iconic James Cond print works building into a skills centre for University College
CEG has opened a new Forging Futures Campus at its Kirkstall Forge development cementing its commitment to delivering skills, training and education projects in Leeds. CEG and Wates Construction launched the first campus in 2017, working closely with Leeds College of Building and Leeds City Council. It has grown to
A new report published by Arden University has found that the Construction sector is set to lose 567,670 jobs in the hands of automation and technological advances in the workplace. The 2030 Workforce Report also found that by 2030, 30% of all jobs in the UK could be eradicated due
CITB’s England Construction Opportunities (ECO) commission sees eight successful bids awarded a total of just over £1.8m. This investment will directly help address the construction industry’s skills gap, increase employment retention, and provide vital support to new starters at the beginning of their construction careers. Each of the eight projects
A new survey by UK Construction Week Birmingham has revealed that those who work in the industry believe better school careers advice and improving the sector’s ‘dirty’ image are key steps to resolving the current skills gap in construction. With just two weeks before the three-day show returns to the
A new apprenticeship for Commercial Gas Engineering Operatives has officially launched at Leeds College of Building. The apprenticeship is the first of its kind in Yorkshire, and the first time the College has offered a commercial rather than domestic pathway for gas engineers. The training is aimed at individuals employed
Leeds College of Building is celebrating the National T Levels Week, a celebration of the successful new two-year vocational training programme, with the introduction of the Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction T Level course. T Levels are qualifications for people aged between 16 and 19, who, after their GCSEs, want to focus on technical and vocational skills. Having been designed in collaboration with leading employers to provide the skills businesses across the region need, the goal of these qualifications is to help students into skilled employment, higher study, or apprenticeships. “Leeds College of Building is the UK’s only general Further Education college specialising in Construction and the Built Environment. As such, we are perfectly placed to work with our established network of regional and national employers to enhance T Level opportunities for students,” commented Nikki Davis, CEO & Principal at Leeds College of Building. “T Level students at Leeds College of Building will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and specialist teaching expertise. Students also benefit from established progression opportunities within higher and degree-level apprenticeships at the College and employment opportunities through our construction partners. Leeds College of Building is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. This new qualification will help us to better serve the region’s young people and workforce, opening up even more opportunities into high paying, skilled jobs.” Leeds College of Building is among a select number of education providers across England chosen to deliver this T Level programme from September 2022. At the heart of the course, a 45-day industry placement opens opportunities for the brightest talent entering the market. Time is split between 80% classroom learning and 20% industry placement lasting approximately seven weeks. All students will develop a general understanding of construction, including accurate and appropriate measurements, construction methods and building regulations, digital engineering techniques, design principles and processes, CAD, mathematical problem-solving, and sustainability and environmental impact. Amongst the employers on offer from Leeds College of Building for T Level students work placements is Caddick Construction Limited. “The new T Levels are a great alternative to entry-level qualifications as they help students gain valuable ‘on the job’ experience whilst undertaking their qualification, which will give them a great advantage going forward in their career. It will also help employers gain an early insight into the latest talent pool, helping with recruitment and social value benefits. It also helps us to develop the knowledge, attitude, and skills of the students entering the built environment,” said Debbie Watson, Social Value Manager (Yorkshire) at Caddick Construction Ltd. “Whilst working with us, students will spend time in each department at both our offices and on our sites to understand the workings of the main contractor. Students will also spend time with our consultants, such as the Architect, to understand how projects get to site, as well as spending time with subcontractors on our projects learning more about life on site,” Debbie concluded. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction and Property News
Bouygues UK has been shortlisted in the ‘STEM Educational Programme of the Year (Private Sector)’ Category of the Wales STEM Awards. The only construction company in the 34 named as finalists, Bouygues UK was nominated for its STEM schools programme of activity, which includes its ‘Girls Believe Academy’. This innovative programme runs across the whole of the UK and addresses the skills gap by demonstrating to young girls who are at the critical stage in their career decision-making, the diverse career options that can be had in construction and engineering. The academy, launched in 2021 by Bouygues UK’s women’s network WeLink, trains its staff to become academy ambassadors. The selected ambassadors reflect Bouygues UK’s diverse workforce and have a range of roles at every level in the business. They are encouraged to share their own career experiences, offering real-world examples of how they got their role, the subjects they studied at school and the enriching experiences they have had following a career in construction and engineering. In addition, Bouygues UK, in collaboration with its partners Aspire2be, has developed digital tools that build on the foundations of the academy, such as a virtual work experience platform. This platform gives young learners an insight into Bouygues UK and the range of STEM-focused roles which exist in the business. It helps its ambassadors provide an impactful learning experience to help young girls continue to build awareness of the opportunities that the construction industry can offer, while also developing knowledge and skills through STEM and curriculum-focused activities. The awards, which celebrate those making a difference to and championing Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) in Wales, will shine a spotlight on businesses who are creating an impact on the Welsh economy, those addressing the STEM diversity gap and skills shortage and those inspiring and raising aspirations of the next generation. Leigh Hughes, Bouygues UK’s Business Growth and Social Value Director, said: “The focal feature of the academy is to showcase the amazing women who have been instrumental in the construction of some of the most challenging and recognisable buildings around the world. This project also helps promote our internal network of STEM ambassadors, building a sense of community and shared responsibility within our own organisations. “Using the academy as a springboard for further engagement and opportunity, young people who have taken part have gone on to do work experience with Bouygues UK and in companies within our supply chain. The opportunity for industry engagement is significant, especially for those who are facing barriers to engagement or are at a disadvantage due to social and economic circumstances. “Bouygues UK is committed to addressing the skills gap in our industry, while also achieving gender parity in construction and engineering roles by inspiring young women to consider a career in construction and engineering. By developing ambassadors for the academy we are building our own internal network of STEM collaborators, creating a sense of community and shared responsibility within Bouygues UK. “ Simon Pridham, Managing Director of Aspire 2Be: “Our work with Bouygues UK over a number of years has been an absolute pleasure. As a fully responsible employer they completely understand the importance of engaging with young people and educating them in an exciting way around future skills, employment opportunities and STEM subjects in general. We are proud and privileged to call Bouygues UK partners at Aspire 2Be.” Dr Louise Bright, head of judges and founder of Wales Women in STEM Network, said: “The Wales STEM Awards do such an important job recognising and celebrating the achievements of organisations and individuals working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths in Wales. This year, just like the first Wales STEM Awards, I’ve been privileged to read about the inspiring work happening around the country. I am looking forward to meeting the nominees and learning more about them and unlike our inaugural year, celebrating their success in person at the awards ceremony in October.” All finalists across the 12 categories will now be considered by an industry-leading panel of judges, with the winners being announced at the awards ceremony at the Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel on 27th October 2022.
PfP Capital, the Social Value and ESG-focused real estate fund manager, part of the UK’s leading social enterprise Places for People, has appointed Catherine Webster as its new Chief Executive Officer. Catherine, who starts at PfP Capital in January 2023, joins from property development and investment specialist Quintain where she is Executive Director for Strategy and Investment, leading on business strategy, financing and investment initiatives. Catherine has worked in real estate investment and finance for 30 years and has held several senior investor and lender roles including private equity, fund management and investment banking at Hudson Advisors (Lone Star Funds), TIAA & Lehman Brothers Global Real Estate. Catherine’s experience is pan-European, across residential and commercial sectors and as an owner, JV partner, fund investor, mezzanine and senior lender. PfP Capital currently has £600m under management across its three existing funds and a significant growth plan. Commenting on Catherine’s appointment, Greg Reed, Group Chief Executive Officer of Places for People, and board member of PfP Capital, said: “Catherine is a stellar appointment for us. Since it was founded five years ago, PfP Capital has been successful, and we now have big plans for growth; we have the opportunity to build on our success to-date and really scale-up the business. “We have a brilliant team in place at PfP Capital and we’re grateful for the work and vision of former MD Chris Jones who founded the PfP Capital business out of Places for People in 2017 and retired earlier this year. I know the experience and leadership Catherine brings will add greatly to our team and really drive us forward.” Catherine added: “I’m delighted to be joining PfP Capital to lead the next stage of its journey. PfP Capital has established itself as a key player with a strong reputation in the market. The excellent team has nurtured partnerships with leading institutional stakeholders and has built a great base for future expansion as we look to not only grow the existing funds but also add new funds. Backed by the power of Places for People, the potential for growth from this solid foundation is massive. Above all, with the company’s strong social purpose, we will have a positive impact on the communities we serve and the wider UK society.”
Boutique developer Life Less Ordinary has created five significant new roles, further expanding its workforce to deliver more homes. The move comes as it looks forward to continued growth with an appetite to see its output increase to a residential development value of over £50 million next year. In what amounts to an almost total re-structure of the construction team, Life Less Ordinary head hunted James Cross into the role of Head of Technical. James joins from Persimmon Homes and over a career that spans almost 40 years, he has gained experience with leading industry names that include Barratt Homes, Crest Nicholson, and Berkeley Homes. A member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, James is experienced in all aspects of residential development and has built an enviable track record of delivering complex residential and mixed used schemes. Life Less Ordinary has also strengthened its commercial team with Paul Litherland who arrives from Inland Homes to assume the role of Head of Commercial. Sponsored through his university degree by Taylor Woodrow Construction, Paul has gone on to gain experience with Kier Construction and Tolent Construction. Completing the commercial team line-up will be Ben Revel who joins as Assistant Surveyor to support Paul and develop the businesses procurement processes. Darren Breen, meanwhile, left Boshers to join Life Less Ordinary in the construction arm as Operations Manager. After working at Ballymore and Inland Homes, his experience and expertise in construction will allow the business to enhance its product offering with a closer eye to detail and the ability to scale up to a larger number of homes. Commenting on the new appointments, Hinesh Chawda, Director at Life Less Ordinary said: “We have a hugely ambitious appetite to deliver more quality, desirable homes and to do that it is vital that we have the very best senior experience within our team. “The combined experience and enthusiasm of James, Paul, Ben and Darren will allow us to ensure that we continue building quality, desirable homes and a consistently exceptional product as we move through a period of sustained growth.” Life Less Ordinary has also appointed Danielle Chevannes to the role of Customer Service Manager. As a business committed to delivering the strongest customer experience from initial enquiry through to sale completion and follow up, these appointments underscore the team’s focus on providing a customer focused full-service offering. Hinesh concludes: “We have witnessed the positive impact that controlling the entire development process has for the end user and the value that it brings to our customers in their new homes. Danielle will be the principal point of contact for all our buyers and ensure that our customer care matches the quality of the homes that we’re selling.”
GMI Construction Group has been appointed by University College Birmingham to develop a state-of-the-art sustainable construction skills centre in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. The project, located in the Jewellery Quarter’s Conservation Area, will see GMI regenerate the iconic James Cond print works building into a skills centre for University College Birmingham’s intake of construction students next year. Offering courses in areas such as modular buildings, retrofit construction, and green technologies, the centre will specialise in teaching skills that support the region’s growth areas, including sustainable construction methods and renewable energy. Current construction students will also have the opportunity to get involved with the build, offering them real-world experience and the chance to help build their own learning facility. GMI will commence building works in October 2022 and the project is expected to be completed ready for September 2023’s intake of students. Gareth Jones, Construction Director at GMI, said: “We’re looking forward to working with University College Birmingham on the regeneration of this historic building in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, unlocking new opportunities for the area through improved access to education. “Improving the sustainability of the construction industry is high on our agenda, so it’s a pleasure to be working on a project that will provide training in this area and equip the future workforce with the skills they need to make a positive change to the industry.” Professor Michael Harkin, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at University College Birmingham, added: “There is a great need for new talent in the sustainable construction field, with hundreds of thousands of new workers expected to be required in the next few years. “We look forward to working with GMI to bring this much-needed skills centre to life, and welcoming new students to the facility next year.” To find out more about GMI, please visit: www.gmiconstructiongroup.co.uk.
CEG has opened a new Forging Futures Campus at its Kirkstall Forge development cementing its commitment to delivering skills, training and education projects in Leeds. CEG and Wates Construction launched the first campus in 2017, working closely with Leeds College of Building and Leeds City Council. It has grown to achieve more than £11million in social value, helping to train the city’s future architects, bricklayers, civil engineers, joiners, plumbers and electricians. As a result of its success, a new campus has opened providing expanded classrooms and facilities as well as a safe, live construction area which will help to facilitate site visits, curriculum projects and hands-on mentoring support. At the launch event for the new campus, the latest cohort of young people to graduate from Forging Futures’ Employability Skills Course, which is delivered in conjunction with Icon Group and SCL, were presented with their certificates by the Leeds Lord Mayor, Councillor Bob Gettings. The regular Employability Skills Courses helps young people not in education, employment or training learn new skills, build confidence and identify routes to training and employment, as well as securing Construction Skills Awards, their CSCS card training and a Level 1 Employability and Functional Skills Qualification. Almost 150 young people who were unemployed, or not in school or vocational training have now completed the course, with many moving into apprenticeships, jobs or further education. A further 450 participants have benefited from the curriculum delivery, site visits, workplace engagement, CV workshops and mock interviews in partnership with several Leeds schools, colleges and universities. The Forging Futures Campus is located within the construction area of the Kirkstall Forge development site and provides vocational training, site visits and work experience for students, local people and young people not in education, employment or training. Alongside the campus, a base has been provided for the River Stewardship Company which provides watercourse maintenance and improvement projects throughout Yorkshire. They will work closely with the team at Forging Futures Campus in providing hands-on mentoring and work experience. Peter Marsden from the River Stewardship Company said: “We, and Riverlution are so pleased to be part of the Forging Futures Campus. It gives us a chance to be involved with the family of companies associated with the Campus and enables us to promote the environment together with the enhancing of waterways in Yorkshire. We are looking forward to collaboratively working with the Forging Futures campus and creating a safe haven for the tuition of students in the area.” David Wingfield, Regional Director for the Northeast at Wates Construction, said: “Following the success of the first pioneering Forging Futures Campus in 2017, we’re proud to support the development of a second Campus, allowing even more graduates and young people access to modern facilities where they can gain employability skills that will serve them long into the future. “Wates is committed to ensuring the project continues to create benefits for the people of Kirkstall and Leeds. Our investment in the local community and work with the likes of CEG and young people will help to revive local opportunities through regeneration, creating a lasting legacy for the area.” Lucinda Yeadon, Community Liaison Manager at CEG, said: “We’re passionate about providing long-term benefits to the local community, and Forging Futures Campus has proved an incredibly successful way to deliver new skills, training and job opportunities. “We’re so proud of those who have taken part and have seen such a positive impact on their lives. The investment into the new, larger campus will ensure we can continue to deliver our social value aspirations and help young people better access the jobs market.” The event was also attended by other key partners who contribute to the Forging Futures programme including social enterprises The Skill Mill, Canal Connections, EN:Able Futures, Slung Low and members of the local community.
A new report published by Arden University has found that the Construction sector is set to lose 567,670 jobs in the hands of automation and technological advances in the workplace. The 2030 Workforce Report also found that by 2030, 30% of all jobs in the UK could be eradicated due to automation changing the workforce. With more jobs set to involve working alongside or in tandem with new technologies, the research also found that only a minority of employees are currently up to speed and comfortable working with developing digital technology. In the Construction sector, it found that 20 per cent of people felt they had a digital skills gap and weren’t prepared for the technological changes at hand. Commenting on this, Carl Lygo, CEO and Vice Chancellor at Arden University says: “As automation begins to play a greater role in economic production, it will disrupt these industries the most significantly, with the effects being felt across society and the nation’s economy. “Upskilling is most urgent – particularly for the employees who may not have the digital skills to prepare them for the evolving jobs of the future. It is now up to education institutions to ensure they are teaching and preparing the next generation for the jobs of the future and not solely for the jobs of today.” The worst affected in the UK Over a half of jobs are set to become extinct in the transport and storage industry (56% of jobs) with manufacturing (46%), wholesale, retail, and repair of motor vehicles (44%), admin & support services (37%), and public admin & defence, social security/ financial & insurance services (32%), being the remaining top sectors expected to undergo a massive shift in the next decade. “The pandemic has magnified this shift with the rise of home-working and online socialising. Yet whilst much of the population becomes ever more proficient, for some, a lack of technological proficiency or access risks them being left behind. “As digital technology plays a more prominent role in most jobs, and more employees work alongside tech, basic digital literacy will become an essential skill, on a par with reading and writing. As more jobs require digital skills, upskilling the population is a key priority. “It is without a doubt that automation will result in a foundational change to the landscape of work. Higher education institutions now have a very important job to do to ensure that the nation is ready and prepared for the jobs of the future,” concludes Carl.
CITB’s England Construction Opportunities (ECO) commission sees eight successful bids awarded a total of just over £1.8m. This investment will directly help address the construction industry’s skills gap, increase employment retention, and provide vital support to new starters at the beginning of their construction careers. Each of the eight projects will deliver a combined total of 3,500 employment support plans to assist individuals, with the aim of achieving long-term sustained employment. Through the ECO funding, the selected suppliers will bring support systems to the following regions: Abbey Access Centre Ltd – Lincoln Barking Riverside Ltd – London Gement Ltd – London and South-East Hampshire County Council Landau Ltd – Shropshire NFRC – England WMCA – West Midlands Women into Construction – England Over the course of three years, the ECO projects will support individuals to overcome any initial challenges they may face as they begin their career in construction, while also providing ongoing in-work support to improve retention and importantly, progression. The successful suppliers all have established links with the construction industry, many already working with contractors and employers across a range of sites throughout the UK. Hampshire County Council, Landau Ltd, WMCA and Barking Riverside Ltd are all recognised for previously supporting construction opportunities through the Construction Skills Fund (CSF), a similar model designed and delivered collaboratively through CITB and the Department for Education. The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), Women into Construction, Abbey Access Centre Ltd and Gement Ltd all have expertise in specialist careers advice, training, and employment opportunities within the construction industry. CITB’s investment in the ECO commission will provide critical support to deliver the skills industry requires to meet demand, with many of the selected suppliers anticipating a high level of activity in the coming years. Landau Ltd is just one of the projects that will be engaging with local employers to cater to the high demand for new build projects in Telford, currently the fourth most active area within the UK for new build homes. Barking Riverside Ltd and the WMCA will also be centring their projects around local activity, with large-scale regeneration planned in both Birmingham, following the Commonwealth Games, and across the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. The eight projects are aligned in their approach, with the belief that regular ‘touch points’ and guidance sessions with sector specialists will be key to retaining more participants in construction roles. Many of the projects aim to implement bespoke support and action plans for learners, with this investment from CITB enabling them to have a greater presence in the individual’s training and development. Tim Balcon, CITB Chief Executive, said: “It’s fantastic to see the ECO commission progress forward with eight successful bids. Their wealth of knowledge and experience, combined with their established partnerships, will be vital in creating the opportunities, supporting new entrants, and critically maximising skills retention in the industry, all of which CITB recognises is and will continue to be crucial for the foreseeable future. “With a changing landscape and a demand in England alone for over 220,000 additional workers by 2026, the challenge industry faces should not be underestimated. However, this commission presents a great opportunity to contribute and address some of those key skills challenges, primarily helping towards securing construction’s talent pipeline. I’m really looking forward to watching the projects flourish and wish them all the best of luck as they move into the next phase.”
A new survey by UK Construction Week Birmingham has revealed that those who work in the industry believe better school careers advice and improving the sector’s ‘dirty’ image are key steps to resolving the current skills gap in construction. With just two weeks before the three-day show returns to the NEC on October 4th, the survey polled over 1,100 people across the sector, including architects, engineers, housebuilders, installers, joiners, contractors and consultants. It found over a quarter (26%) of respondents felt the solution to fixing the skills gap was ‘better career advice at school/college to paint a more attractive picture of construction to young people’, while 24% said the answer was ‘a long-term strategy to attract and retain talent, not just a short fix’. Key barriers to young people pursuing a career in construction were seen as the industry being perceived as ‘dirty job’ (23%), lack of careers advice (19%), and the sector being seen as male-dominated (15%). Other survey results included: The main barriers to people’s own advancement in construction was due to lack of training support from their employer (18%); poor careers advice (18%); and lack of funding (17%) 57% of respondents thought the skills gap had either worsened or stayed the same in the last two years, with ‘the great resignation’ (19%); uncertainty (17%); and long lead times and the rise of materials and product costs (17%) being the principal causes Respondents said the best things about working in construction are the tangible results (25%); learning new skills (20%); and the fact that no two days are the same (15%) When asked what the construction industry workforce will look like in 2050, the most popular responses included ‘a more diverse/female workforce’; ‘more use of AI’; ‘increase in mechanisation/robotics’; and ‘it will be more lucrative and attractive to graduates’ 84% of respondents said flexible/hybrid working was now an option in their role, with the key reasons for the 16% who don’t have that flexibility being ‘not practical – we need to be on site at all times’ (52%); ‘the directors do not like it’ (18%) and ‘it’s never been discussed’ (16%) Nathan Garnett, UKCW Birmingham’s event director said: “Our survey is a clarion call to both the government and construction sector, and outlines what we need to change if we are to tackle the skills crisis we currently face. We plan to use our event in just two weeks’ time to set out some of the solutions that our survey points to so we can create real culture change. “Our survey not only highlights the challenge, but it also illustrates the variety and truly rewarding nature of being part of the built environment – a message we will get across loud and clear.” Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “As we continue to work hard to supercharge our region’s economic recovery, the construction sector will play a key role. Many of our young people – and indeed local job seekers of all ages – have recognised that joining this industry can offer an exciting, practical and well paid career path for those willing to grasp the opportunity. “However, it’s clear from the survey that we have more work to do to change perceptions and highlight the positive side of this booming sector which will shape the West Midlands for many years to come. I hope to play my part in fostering interest in construction – working together with the industry and other bodies like CITB – not only to connect local residents with great jobs but also to alleviate the skills shortage in the sector which is essential if we are to reach our full potential.” Tim Balcon, Chief Executive, CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) said: “We welcome this insight, which highlights the challenge that is being faced to attract and retain talent and to address the skills gap. We need to work collaboratively across industry to strengthen the entire talent pipeline and increase the number of people joining and staying in construction. “By investing over £233m across the sector this year, we’re doing all that we can to facilitate key routes into industry such as apprenticeship and employer grants, occupational traineeships, and onsite experience hubs. In short, we’re working hard to support the construction industry to address the gap highlighted in this report so that we can build a skilled, competent and inclusive workforce both for now and in the future.” This year UKCW Birmingham is expecting around 25,000 attendees, will officially be opened by Channel 4 presenter George Clarke and features guest speaker Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands. Celebrating culture change in the construction industry with an exciting programme of debate and discussion from top speakers, the show will also shine a spotlight on over 6,000 products from more than 300 exciting exhibitors. Visitors will also be able to find sections dedicated to Net Zero, Building Materials, Digitalisation, Infrastructure, Surface & Materials, Offsite Construction, and Skills & Careers. Register for free here, UKCW Birmingham registrations and if you are part of an industry group or community and you’d like to host your own networking event please get in touch via info@ukconstructionweek.com. Follow on social media @uk_cw #UKCW2022
A new apprenticeship for Commercial Gas Engineering Operatives has officially launched at Leeds College of Building. The apprenticeship is the first of its kind in Yorkshire, and the first time the College has offered a commercial rather than domestic pathway for gas engineers. The training is aimed at individuals employed by gas, heating, and ventilation firms who specialise in business services. Jim Branney, Curriculum Manager for Gas and Short Courses at Leeds College of Building, explained: “Since changes were made to the entry requirements to allow people work in the gas industry, employers have been unable to easily tap into this kind of commercial gas engineering training. We have therefore been responsive to employer feedback and adopted a BPEC curriculum framework, endpoint assessment, and accredited certification specifically for these apprentices working in commercial organisations. “The training is a little different to the domestic route as it’s not a qualification – it’s a managed learning programme leading to Gateway. The outcome is still an End Point Assessment and ultimately an apprenticeship certificate. Training is designed for those who need to know theories and safety procedures involved in the commercial installation, commissioning, decommissioning, or service and repair of gas appliances and associated equipment.” Jim continued: “This is probably one of only a handful of apprenticeship routes regionally into the commercial gas industry, yet there is a huge demand for trained professionals needed for thousands of opportunities nationally. This apprenticeship is an ideal route for individuals looking to specialise as commercial gas engineers.” The new apprenticeship will cover statutory requirements such as health, safety and environmental legislation and regulation, along with maintenance of gas installations and appliances in accordance with industry standards. Apprentices also learn about electrical and mechanical principles, energy efficiency, products, company rules, policies and procedures, risk assessments, tool maintenance, personal protective equipment (PPE), working on customer premises, effective communication, working with different trades, flue testing, pipework installation, ambient air testing, and identifying faults. In the final three months of the apprenticeship, trainees submit a portfolio consisting of a Gas Safe® registration certificate, competency test, and work-log review which includes an interview with a Technical Expert. On achieving a pass or distinction, apprentices will be eligible for membership with the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) professional registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). Applicants should be aged 16 or over and ideally already be employed or have secured a work placement. Those unable to find an apprenticeship can apply for a study programme at Leeds College of Building and switch over to an apprenticeship at any point when a vacancy becomes available. Visit the Leeds College of Building website for more details about how to apply or to enquire about training your employees.
