Business : Training & Skills News

Triple technical hire for Midlands contractor GF Tomlinson

Midlands-contractor G F Tomlinson has appointed three new technical apprentices as part of its commitment to investing in the next generation of construction workers. The latest recruits to the construction firm’s apprenticeship scheme include Jack Harvey and Joe Langley who both achieved successful GCSE results, and Joshua Worrall who recently

Read More »
Businesses Need Real-Time Safety Awareness

Businesses Need Real-Time Safety Awareness

Advanced Analytics company Empiricai, is calling on industry to take action in order to prevent further workplace closures and boost the economy. In these uncertain times, an increase in positive cases in the workplace can have a devastating impact on an organisation’s productivity, output and revenue, so granular risk analysis

Read More »

Alison Brown Appointed HMS Maintenance Director

North West construction and maintenance business, HMS, is delighted to announce the appointment of Alison Brown as Maintenance Director.  Bringing over 30 years’ Social Housing experience to the role, Alison has a wealth of knowledge of the Repairs and Maintenance sector.   With a Masters in Business and a degree

Read More »
Triple technical hire for Midlands contractor

Triple Technical Hire for Midlands Contractor

Midlands-contractor G F Tomlinson has appointed three new technical apprentices as part of its commitment to investing in the next generation of construction workers. The latest recruits to the construction firm’s apprenticeship scheme include Jack Harvey and Joe Langley who both achieved successful GCSE results, and Joshua Worrall who recently

Read More »

New Future Leaders’ Forum to transform skills in the built environment

Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) is calling on early career professionals and students with drive, ambition and determination to join a new Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum.  This ground breaking initiative will promote the development of new skills, competencies and opportunities in the sector to inspire the future workforce of

Read More »
Arthur McKay Appoints Two New Regional Directors

Arthur McKay Appoints Two New Regional Directors

Arthur McKay, a leading building support services provider in the UK and an Atalian Servest company, appoints David Prendergast and Justin Wolvin as Regional Directors to strengthen the team and expand sales development opportunities. David will steer both the Arthur McKay mechanical and electrical projects as well as subsidiary company

Read More »

New era begins for Gilbert & Goode

A Cornish construction company has appointed a new managing director. Peter Sadler joins St Austell-based Gilbert & Goode with more than 25 years experience in the construction industry, specialising in the residential sector. His impressive experience features commercial, development, and managerial roles within the South West for organisations including Kier

Read More »

Glencar gets ready for further growth with trio of high-profile appointments

Operations Team has been strengthened significantly with the hire of three new, experienced Operations Directors with immediate effect. Glencar, an expanding construction company specialising in the warehouse/industrial, logistics/distribution, life science, pharmaceutical, tech and manufacturing sectors has today announced the appointment of three new Operations Directors to its rapidly expanding team.

Read More »

Sizewell C aims to employ 1,500 apprentices

Sizewell C is increasing the number of apprentices it is aiming to employ from 1,000 to 1,500.  A range of opportunities from conventional to degree level apprenticeships will be offered if construction of the new nuclear power station goes ahead.   Apprentices will be trained in a wide variety of

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

Business : Training & Skills News

Triple technical hire for Midlands contractor GF Tomlinson

Midlands-contractor G F Tomlinson has appointed three new technical apprentices as part of its commitment to investing in the next generation of construction workers. The latest recruits to the construction firm’s apprenticeship scheme include Jack Harvey and Joe Langley who both achieved successful GCSE results, and Joshua Worrall who recently passed his A levels – all three joined the technical team this month to kick start their careers in the industry. Derby-based Jack Harvey starts his apprenticeship scheme as a technical apprentice with GCSEs in maths, English, French, science, technology and ICT. His main responsibilities will be performing a range of tasks assigned by line managers, working across a variety of departments to gain a wide breadth of experience, especially in the initial first few months. Technical apprentice, Joe Langley, from Crich achieved GCSEs in maths, English language, English literature and science, and his interest in entering the construction industry led to him completing a BTEC in the Construction and the Built Environment, in which he achieved a Level 2 distinction. He will be focusing on growing his skills across various departments. Nottingham-based Joshua Worrall, joins as a technical apprentice having achieved A levels in business studies, physical education and ICT. His responsibilities will include meeting the needs and requirements of all projects that he is assigned to, to ensure they are completed properly, safely, and to the best price and time scale as possible. G F Tomlinson has 24 professional apprentices currently across the Group and the firm has an ongoing commitment to invest in the future generation of construction workers, all of which participate in fully recognised apprenticeship training schemes. The apprenticeship schemes are open to 16 to 19-year olds, and all apprentices that are offered a place with G F Tomlinson undertake an intensive training programme which consists of working alongside a dedicated mentor and spending a designated period in all parts of the company, before specialising in their selected roles. Applications for apprenticeships start at Christmas time for the following September, and all applicants are advised that the recruitment process then starts in early May with a formal review of all applications. For this September intake, seven applicants attended a COVID-19 secure interview back in June. Associate construction director, Kevin Dodds, said: “Our apprenticeships are all about unlocking potential for young people, helping them into the construction industry and nurturing and developing skills. Training is a core value at G F Tomlinson and we pride ourselves on the programme we offer. There are plenty of roles open to young people in construction, not just on the craft side such as bricklaying and joinery, but also including site management, site engineering, design management, quantity surveying, estimating, and health and safety.” On his new appointment, technical apprentice, Jack Harvey, said: “I am excited and keen to learn, gain experience and build relationships with my colleagues at my new job. I was attracted to the company after completing my work experience last year, meeting all the friendly people on site. I hope to bring even more success to the company and aim to become a site manager at G F Tomlinson in the future.” Technical apprentice, Joe Langley, said: “As part of my work experience programme, I previously spent time in an architect’s practice and this insight made me realise that a career in construction was something that I wanted to pursue. Previous part time job roles that I’ve held have also given me experience in teamwork and communication, which I believe will help me be a good addition to the G F Tomlinson team.  I am really looking forward to starting my career and am excited by this opportunity to join a company with an outstanding reputation. I hope to maintain this reputation and see myself in a leading or management role in the future.” Technical apprentice, Joshua Worrall, said: “G F Tomlinson has a very good reputation and is a well-respected company, and the firm is recognised for helping young people succeed in the industry. In my new role, I am excited to get to work in a large, friendly company with a great reputation, meeting lots of new people and being able to prove my worth within the workplace. I am also excited to learn about the trade and how everything works within the industry, as well as being able to do my part. I hope to bring enthusiasm and hope to get stuck into projects to help the company develop as a whole.” Investing in the next generation of construction workers and giving them the skills that they need to enter the industry, is a key value held by G F Tomlinson. The firm values training and investment in young talent, and invests time, money and effort in developing the skills of its staff and apprentices. Commitment to training includes promoting Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and 400 person hours are dedicated per annum, enhancing the overall education level of its local workforce.

Read More »
Businesses Need Real-Time Safety Awareness

Businesses Need Real-Time Safety Awareness

Advanced Analytics company Empiricai, is calling on industry to take action in order to prevent further workplace closures and boost the economy. In these uncertain times, an increase in positive cases in the workplace can have a devastating impact on an organisation’s productivity, output and revenue, so granular risk analysis is needed. In an industrial or branch setting, one infection could lead to the closure of a whole shift or even a potential Government fine. In the worst-case scenario, a sharp increase in cases would shut down the entire workplace. Pilgrim Foods, part of JBS S.A., the largest meat processor in the world, has already been forced to close as workplace infections spiked, impacting the company’s output.  To reduce the spread of infection across the workplace and avoid closure businesses there are only three proven techniques:  Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) detection – ensure PPE is worn properly where and when required across the workplace. Real-time social distancing – provide a real-time view of social distancing compliance and violations in the workplace.  Occupancy monitoring – actively avoid workplace overcrowding using heat maps to identify areas of concern or high traffic. Empiricai helps businesses monitor COVID safety compliance, reduce risk in real-time and prevent workplace closures with its WorkSafe Analytics solution. Emipiricai’s WorkSafe Analytics leverages Computer Vision AI to enable businesses to ‘see’ and accurately monitor workplace regulation compliance. “Despite best efforts to manually monitor and implement workplace safety guidelines there is still an increased risk of infection. Violations and non-compliance are often missed by the naked eye and manual processes which would regularly be picked up by technology, especially Computer Vision AI,” said Empiricai CEO, Salman Chaudhary. “The only way for businesses to realistically mitigate risk in the workplace and prevent closure is to accurately monitor social distancing, PPE compliance and workplace occupancy. These three variables are key to stopping the spread of infection, especially when workers may be asymptomatic.” WorkSafe Analytics provides site-wide, comprehensive analytics on the above regulations which allow organisations to measure the effectiveness of current guidelines and make evidence-based decisions to increase education and awareness or introduce physical measures. Over time businesses can assess the impact of new measures on the workforce, the reduction of infection risk and ultimately keep the workplace open.

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Alison Brown Appointed HMS Maintenance Director

North West construction and maintenance business, HMS, is delighted to announce the appointment of Alison Brown as Maintenance Director.  Bringing over 30 years’ Social Housing experience to the role, Alison has a wealth of knowledge of the Repairs and Maintenance sector.   With a Masters in Business and a degree in Housing Management and Development, she has had multiple senior roles in the social housing sector, in both public and private sector organisations.  Discussing her appointment, Alison said: “Since being a teenager, I decided I wanted to work in the social housing sector, after having a weekend job working in an Extra Care Supported Living Scheme and seeing the impact quality homes had on people’s lives .”  This early passion for Social Housing has seen Alison cultivate an extensive track record of improving services for clients, across the country.  Alison continues: “What attracted me to the role at HMS is the opportunity to be part of an organisation that seeks to balance commercial drive with a real customer service focus.   “The HMS operating model of improving existing services and its social commitment to the people who live and work in its communities’ is unprecedented and  is one that really contributes towards improving the lives of the people of Liverpool, St Helens and Warrington.  “They have a genuine drive to increase employment opportunities for local people through initiatives like worklessness programmes, apprenticeships and Women in Construction, together with an ongoing commitment to training and upskilling the whole team, so that its legacy supports the vital work of the Torus Foundation. This is something that resonates deeply with me as it is vital that we continue investing in our existing staff and future talent.  “I’m looking forward to contributing to HMS’ success and growth as one of the leading Maintenance and Construction organisations in the region.”  Managing Director of HMS, Paul Worthington, said: “The whole team is thrilled to welcome Alison onboard and utilise her unique experience to continue our expansion. This is a fantastic opportunity for us all and I know that Alison will support our corporate plans for growth so we can reinvest our profits to further increase our social impact so our communities’ can continue to thrive.” 

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Triple technical hire for Midlands contractor

Triple Technical Hire for Midlands Contractor

Midlands-contractor G F Tomlinson has appointed three new technical apprentices as part of its commitment to investing in the next generation of construction workers. The latest recruits to the construction firm’s apprenticeship scheme include Jack Harvey and Joe Langley who both achieved successful GCSE results, and Joshua Worrall who recently passed his A levels – all three joined the technical team this month to kick start their careers in the industry. Derby-based Jack Harvey starts his apprenticeship scheme as a technical apprentice with GCSEs in maths, English, French, science, technology and ICT. His main responsibilities will be performing a range of tasks assigned by line managers, working across a variety of departments to gain a wide breadth of experience, especially in the initial first few months. Technical apprentice, Joe Langley, from Crich achieved GCSEs in maths, English language, English literature and science, and his interest in entering the construction industry led to him completing a BTEC in the Construction and the Built Environment, in which he achieved a Level 2 distinction. He will be focusing on growing his skills across various departments. Nottingham-based Joshua Worrall, joins as a technical apprentice having achieved A levels in business studies, physical education and ICT. His responsibilities will include meeting the needs and requirements of all projects that he is assigned to, to ensure they are completed properly, safely, and to the best price and time scale as possible. G F Tomlinson has 24 professional apprentices currently across the Group and the firm has an ongoing commitment to invest in the future generation of construction workers, all of which participate in fully recognised apprenticeship training schemes. The apprenticeship schemes are open to 16 to 19-year olds, and all apprentices that are offered a place with G F Tomlinson undertake an intensive training programme which consists of working alongside a dedicated mentor and spending a designated period in all parts of the company, before specialising in their selected roles. Applications for apprenticeships start at Christmas time for the following September, and all applicants are advised that the recruitment process then starts in early May with a formal review of all applications. For this September intake, seven applicants attended a COVID-19 secure interview back in June. Associate construction director, Kevin Dodds, said: “Our apprenticeships are all about unlocking potential for young people, helping them into the construction industry and nurturing and developing skills. Training is a core value at G F Tomlinson and we pride ourselves on the programme we offer. There are plenty of roles open to young people in construction, not just on the craft side such as bricklaying and joinery, but also including site management, site engineering, design management, quantity surveying, estimating, and health and safety.” On his new appointment, technical apprentice, Jack Harvey, said: “I am excited and keen to learn, gain experience and build relationships with my colleagues at my new job. I was attracted to the company after completing my work experience last year, meeting all the friendly people on site. I hope to bring even more success to the company and aim to become a site manager at G F Tomlinson in the future.” Technical apprentice, Joe Langley, said: “As part of my work experience programme, I previously spent time in an architect’s practice and this insight made me realise that a career in construction was something that I wanted to pursue. Previous part time job roles that I’ve held have also given me experience in teamwork and communication, which I believe will help me be a good addition to the G F Tomlinson team.  I am really looking forward to starting my career and am excited by this opportunity to join a company with an outstanding reputation. I hope to maintain this reputation and see myself in a leading or management role in the future.” Technical apprentice, Joshua Worrall, said: “G F Tomlinson has a very good reputation and is a well-respected company, and the firm is recognised for helping young people succeed in the industry. In my new role, I am excited to get to work in a large, friendly company with a great reputation, meeting lots of new people and being able to prove my worth within the workplace. I am also excited to learn about the trade and how everything works within the industry, as well as being able to do my part. I hope to bring enthusiasm and hope to get stuck into projects to help the company develop as a whole.” Investing in the next generation of construction workers and giving them the skills that they need to enter the industry, is a key value held by G F Tomlinson. The firm values training and investment in young talent, and invests time, money and effort in developing the skills of its staff and apprentices. Commitment to training includes promoting Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and 400 person hours are dedicated per annum, enhancing the overall education level of its local workforce.

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Job applications in the construction sector grow by 44.5% in Q3 as end of Job Retention Scheme looms

According to the latest quarterly job market report from CV-Library, the UK’s leading independent job board, job applications in the construction sector grew by 44.5% in Q3 2020 and by 21.2% year-on-year.   The report looks at job market data throughout Q3 2020 and compares this with findings from the previous year. It reveals that the construction sector, alongside the following industries, saw the highest growth in applications quarter-on-quarter:   Administration (up 90.2%) Recruitment (up 85.5%) Marketing (up 78.6%) Sales (up 77.7%) Telecoms (up 74.6%) Legal (up 61.5%) Finance (up 58.6%) Education (up 51.5%) Electronics (up 46.9%) Construction (up 44.5%)    Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library comments: “It’s no surprise that there are more candidates on the market given the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the state of our economy. While the circumstances around this influx of talent are unfortunate, it provides a great opportunity for businesses in the construction industry to snag top talent.”    The data also reveals that the number of job postings has increased by 213.4% between Q2 and Q3 2020. However, the number of roles advertised between July and September is still 19.2% lower than at the start of the year.   What’s more, as vacancies continued to rise during Q3, the number of applications per vacancy dropped by 53.9%. However, this is still 85.5% higher than during the same period last year.  Biggins continues: “This data clearly shows that the construction industry has started to recover from the national lockdown in March, but it still has a long way to go. However, it’s likely that this new found confidence may be short lived.   “The uncertainty surrounding future government restrictions, as well as those put in place last week will force businesses to put a freeze on their hiring plans. Sadly, this will coincide with the end of the original Job Retention Scheme, which may spell bad news for professionals.   “That said, if you’re planning on hiring this quarter, you’re likely to have your pick of the best candidates on the market. However, be sure to approach your hiring process with sensitivity as this will be a particularly difficult time for job seekers.”  

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New Future Leaders’ Forum to transform skills in the built environment

Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) is calling on early career professionals and students with drive, ambition and determination to join a new Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum.  This ground breaking initiative will promote the development of new skills, competencies and opportunities in the sector to inspire the future workforce of the construction industry in a way that will benefit the sector for years to come. CSIC is looking for early career professionals and students who are already active in the industry and have a passion about our built environment, to work together to build the mindset, skills and agility needed in a rapidly changing landscape.  The forum’s aim is to ensure the voice of the future workforce is heard, so that the industry can better understand how to attract new talent, and that others are inspired to follow a career in the sector. Lisa Deane, Lead Future Skills Manager at CISC, said: “There is both a skills shortage in the sector and there are new types of skills needed with changing ways of delivering our built environment.  The Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum is a way to ensure we understand how to attract and support the development of existing and new skills in the sector, and how we optimise routes of entry into the industry for them.” “This is a really exciting opportunity for those in their early careers, who are passionate about the built environment with an interest in better and innovative ways to shape our built world.  It’s a chance to be an influencer and ambassador in your field in a way that hasn’t been possible before – the sector needs your input.”    The Forum will be a group of up to 12 people aged 16-30 who are studying or training in a built environment subject or field, or those that are already on a career path in the sector.  The group will share ideas and make emerging expertise and views heard throughout industry.  Members will meet regularly, feed into the CSIC future skills strategy and programmes, and take part in engaging industry with new opportunities. CSIC is firmly committed to diversity and equality and aims to have a broad spectrum of forum members with different points of view and experiences from across the sector. For more information about applying to be a member of the Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum, or chair or co-chair of the group, take a look at the application pack https://www.cs-ic.org/library/future-leaders-forum-application-pack/ The deadline for applications for this year’s group is 16 November 2020. 

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Arthur McKay Appoints Two New Regional Directors

Arthur McKay Appoints Two New Regional Directors

Arthur McKay, a leading building support services provider in the UK and an Atalian Servest company, appoints David Prendergast and Justin Wolvin as Regional Directors to strengthen the team and expand sales development opportunities. David will steer both the Arthur McKay mechanical and electrical projects as well as subsidiary company Thermotech Solution’s fire protection teams. David is responsible for expanding Arthur McKay’s footprint in the North of England and will be leading the company’s new Stockport office. David was previously Managing Director at Thermotech Solutions where he developed the business to become one of the UK’s leading fire protection companies. This led to the acquisition by Atalian Servest to form part of Arthur McKay in 2018. He brings more than 20 years’ experience in the fire protection industry. “I’m delighted to be joining the Arthur McKay team and taking on the role of Regional Director. It’s been a pleasure working with the business during my time at Thermotech and we’ve had an exceptional journey together over the last couple of years. The fact that I have already worked very closely with Arthur McKay means I have a thorough understanding of the company’s position in the market,” commented on his appointment, David Prendergast. In his new role as Regional Director, Justin will drive the company’s sales development and will be responsible for rolling out the company’s new products and services, and pioneering growth in the Central England area. Justin will lead the Nottingham and Leeds offices. “It was a natural step for me to start delivering the projects I have developed over the last few years in a more client facing role. I’m so positive about the developments Arthur McKay has made, and about improving our offering to provide a truly end-to-end service solution for our existing customers, and new customers in different sectors,” said Justin Wolvin. Justin has almost 30 years’ experience in the electrical sector. He has been with Arthur McKay for over five years and was previously Development Director where he built up a solid sales pipeline for special projects he ran primarily in the prison and courts sectors. Before joining the company Justin worked for an electrical contractor for more than 20 years. “David and Justin are integral to the development of Arthur McKay. They both have extensive industry experience and knowledge of the business to start from an advantageous position. Their appointments are critical as we ramp up our expansion plans in the north. I’m pleased to welcome David to the Arthur McKay team, and Justin to his new position,” added Arthur McKay’s Managing Director, Steve Wallbanks.

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New era begins for Gilbert & Goode

A Cornish construction company has appointed a new managing director. Peter Sadler joins St Austell-based Gilbert & Goode with more than 25 years experience in the construction industry, specialising in the residential sector. His impressive experience features commercial, development, and managerial roles within the South West for organisations including Kier Living, Midas, and Mowlem, as well as international positions in the Cayman Islands. “Gilbert & Goode has a strong reputation for building high quality homes with a personal approach, which is what attracted me to the role,” said Peter Sadler. “There is a fantastic team here, and I am looking forward to working with them to take the business through the transition from a regional builder to a developer, enhancing private open market sales, and delivering aspirational environments and communities for our customers to live.” Established in 1972, Gilbert & Goode is now one of the largest Cornish construction companies. It provides high quality homes in key locations across Cornwall and West Devon, with customer experience at the heart. Work will commence at Copper Hills, the company’s newest project comprising 160 homes in Hayle, this autumn. The scheme will be a mix of 35% affordable and 65% open market houses, with a show home opening in spring 2021. Peter continued: “I am excited to be starting work on my first development in Hayle. The area is undergoing huge regeneration, offering a coastal lifestyle with great transport links within Cornwall, meaning there is extremely high demand for new homes in the town. “Long term, we have seen new trends emerging from the coronavirus pandemic, including an increased number of people needing to work from home. As part of our new strategy, we are aiming to create functional and sustainable homes, introducing new technologies and flexible living methods which adapt to changing environments. “We are keen to learn about land opportunities throughout the region for us to be able to deliver a range of open market and affordable homes, developing communities and providing people with safe, stylish, and high quality places to live.” Gilbert & Goode plans to break ground on three new developments in 2021, with 44 homes in Bodmin, 24 homes in St Teath, and 19 homes in Trewoon. Each development will have a mix of affordable and shared ownership properties. Ocean Housing Group is the parent company of Gilbert & Goode. Its chief executive Mark Gardner said: “The group is delighted to welcome Peter Sadler as managing director of Gilbert & Goode. He has an excellent track record, and has the calibre and experience the company needs to continue its growth and success.” New homes are now for sale at current developments in Lelant and the suburbs of Truro, with stamp duty incentives available until the end of March 2021. For more information about these developments visit five-truro.co.uk or lannantaforge.co.uk.

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Glencar gets ready for further growth with trio of high-profile appointments

Operations Team has been strengthened significantly with the hire of three new, experienced Operations Directors with immediate effect. Glencar, an expanding construction company specialising in the warehouse/industrial, logistics/distribution, life science, pharmaceutical, tech and manufacturing sectors has today announced the appointment of three new Operations Directors to its rapidly expanding team. Formerly with other leading industrial and logistics focussed contractors the experienced trio of Chris Looney, Darren Turner and Nick Lakin have been brought in to expand Glencar’s dynamic young team and to continue to deliver the highest standards for customers and end-users. All three appointments bring a considerable amount of experience and expertise from within the construction industry and are highly skilled in industrial and commercial construction and fit-out, value engineering, cost management, project control and programme management. Speaking about the appointments, Glencar Managing Director Eddie McGillycuddy Said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Chris, Darren and Nick into the business who come with an outstanding pedigree and will help us to reinforce our offering in core areas in which we operate and the type of projects we are delivering. With further controlled growth on the horizon and a strong order book for the next 18 months we are resourcing carefully for the future and happy to have recruited three outstanding individuals who very closely share our values and strong focus on customer service, best-in-class project delivery and growing our capability”. So far this year Glencar has secured and delivered new projects valued at more than £100 million for several new and valued repeat Blue Chip customers. This includes several high-profile projects including most notably the new £75M Vaccines Manufacturing and Innovation Centre (VMIC) in Harwell which Glencar has been entrusted to deliver and is being fast-tracked to bring the facility on line early so that it can provide an emergency response capability for the UK against the fight against Covid-19. For further information about VMIC visit: https://www.vmicuk.com/

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Sizewell C aims to employ 1,500 apprentices

Sizewell C is increasing the number of apprentices it is aiming to employ from 1,000 to 1,500.  A range of opportunities from conventional to degree level apprenticeships will be offered if construction of the new nuclear power station goes ahead.   Apprentices will be trained in a wide variety of construction and mechanical roles including degree-level engineering, digital engineering, welding, project management, and steel-fixing. There will also be apprenticeships in many site support services including operations management, logistics, environment, health and safety, security, and accountancy.   Sizewell C is the low carbon nuclear power station being proposed for Suffolk to help the UK reach net zero emissions by 2050. The application to build Sizewell C is currently being considered by the Planning Inspectorate.  The new apprentices target follows the success in training people of all ages at Hinkley Point C in Somerset. Four years into construction, more than 650 apprentices have already worked on over fifty different training programmes linked to the project. The majority of apprentices have come from the local area.  In addition, changes to Government guidance mean companies are allowed greater flexibility in the training they can give through apprenticeship schemes. Humphrey Cadoux-Hudson, Managing Director, Sizewell C said:  “The progress being made at Hinkley Point C has given us the confidence to announce a significantly higher target for apprentices. Sizewell C will create thousands of jobs and training opportunities in the East of England and across the UK’s nuclear supply chain.  Together with our suppliers, we are determined to help people who work for us get good qualifications and build long-term, well-paid careers.”   Cameron Gilmour, Vice President Nuclear, Doosan Babcock, and Chairman of the Sizewell C Consortium said:  “Not every school-leaver wants to go to university and apprenticeships are a great way to learn on the job. This announcement demonstrates the huge potential of Sizewell C to transform the lives of young people by offering them paid training and a great career.”   Gail Cartmail, Assistant General Secretary, Unite the Union said: “Sizewell will be the catalyst for providing young people, particularly those living in East Anglia, with skills for life and it will provide a huge boost to the local economy. It is imperative that the government not only gives the green light to the Sizewell C development but provides direct assistance to ensure that this project begins as early as possible, so that these commitments on apprentices can start to be achieved as soon as possible and the experience of building Hinkley Point can be fully utilised.” Last month saw the launch of the Young Sizewell C scheme, which is designed to introduce 16-21-year olds living in Suffolk and Norfolk to some of the jobs the project could offer.  Young Sizewell C and a future Jobs Service will be used to identify as many opportunities as possible for young people living in the east of England.   Sizewell C is also exploring ways to provide further training and employment opportunities by transferring EDF apprenticeship levy to other east of England businesses.   While many of the apprentices will be based on or close to the construction site in Suffolk, others will have the opportunity to work with suppliers in different parts of the UK. 

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