Coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week (4-8 March 2019), Mecalac Construction Equipment UK Ltd has welcomed nine new apprentices to its Coventry manufacturing facility. Coming as part of an educational partnership with Derby College, the programme affirms Mecalac’s commitment to developing the workforce of tomorrow. Each studying towards an NVQ in
Plans to launch a landmark apprenticeship bursary have been announced by Kier Construction. The ‘Kick-Start’ Bursary is the first to be offered in the built environment, and will support apprentices who may benefit from additional financial support to enter or continue their journey in the workplace. New and existing apprentices across all
To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2019 (4 – 8 March), an international engineering association announced it is forming the first ever academic partnership agreement with a further education college in the UK. The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), which has 92,000 members globally, attended the Hunslet Campus of Leeds College of Building yesterday
Amid recent news that apprenticeship figures are still falling, the UK construction firm nmcn is driving demand for apprentices nationwide. More than 10% of employees at nmcn are currently participating in an apprenticeship, a figure that is expected to rise to 12% when the company’s graduate scheme is brought into
National Apprenticeship Week runs from 4 to 8 March and this year the theme will be Blaze a trail – Fire It Up, showcasing how apprentices bring new energy and passion into any businesses. Yorkshire Housing will celebrate the success of their apprenticeship programme by showcasing apprenticeships as a pathway to a
The best-of-class in south-west Scotland’s construction sector are set to be honoured in the area’s first-ever awards focused on those actively excelling at upskilling their workforce. Contractors on projects for hub South West – the partnership dedicated to community infrastructure projects in Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway –
Curtis Hope has been selected to receive an award run jointly by The Sheffield College and repairs, maintenance and compliance business Horbury Property Services, part of the Horbury Group based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, for ‘Apprentice of the Term’. Curtis, who is aged 17 and from Doncaster, has been with
David Kenkinson has been appointed by the British housebuilder Persimmon as the company’s new Chief Executive (CEO). He has been serving as the group’s interim CEO since late last year and now he will take over the role with immediate effect. “Persimmon is a great company with a bright future and
Level 3 Construction students at Cambridge Regional College (CRC) have been offered an opportunity to gain valuable work experience with a major local employer. Willmott Dixon, one of the UK’s largest construction companies with a regional office in Cambridge, spent the day at CRC interviewing students on a Construction Management
Tim Beale has been promoted to the position of Chief Executive Officer by housebuilder Keepmoat Homes, after previously serving as Deputy Chief Executive since February 2018. He joined the firm in 2007 as Chief Operating Officer. He succeeds James Thomson, who stepped down as Chief Executive following seven years in the
Coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week (4-8 March 2019), Mecalac Construction Equipment UK Ltd has welcomed nine new apprentices to its Coventry manufacturing facility. Coming as part of an educational partnership with Derby College, the programme affirms Mecalac’s commitment to developing the workforce of tomorrow. Each studying towards an NVQ in Performing Manufacturing Operations, the students have completed their classroom-based period and will now gain practical experience working across departments including ‘quality’ and ‘production’. Alongside supporting personal development and building real-world skills, the 12-month placement will provide hands-on experience and put academic theory into practice. Gregg Horne, General Manager at Mecalac Construction Equipment UK Ltd, commented: “The biggest challenge facing the UK construction industry is undoubtably its skills deficit. Currently, the recruitment of new talent is failing to keep up with the rate of retirement, which is limiting activity and increasing labour costs. “At Mecalac, we wanted to tackle the issue head-on and, as such, have adopted a joined-up approach to improving skills and knowledge. Through our training initiatives, we target every stage of the education system – from primary schools right up to Universities. The programme even includes training modules for experienced employees to learn new skills and competences. “Partnering with Derby College to offer practical training for post-GCSE students is a key part of this initiative. Alongside being paid for their time, candidates work towards achieving a City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate and Level 2 NVQ in Performing Manufacturing Operations at the end of the course.” Mecalac’s vision is for more young construction professionals to enter the sector. Through training and education initiatives, the global leader in construction equipment design and manufacture aims to tackle the skills deficit and hopes that other businesses are inspired to follow suit. For more information about Mecalac, or the company’s innovative portfolio of compact construction equipment, visit https://www.mecalac.com/en/.
Plans to launch a landmark apprenticeship bursary have been announced by Kier Construction. The ‘Kick-Start’ Bursary is the first to be offered in the built environment, and will support apprentices who may benefit from additional financial support to enter or continue their journey in the workplace. New and existing apprentices across all of Kier’s business will be able to benefit from this opportunity, as long as they meet the key criteria of a household income of below £17,000. For those that get accepted, the bursary will provide support of £1,000 per year for each apprentice for the duration of their apprenticeship. The announcement comes during National Apprenticeship Week, 04-08 March, which celebrates apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy. “We’re excited to be the first company in the built environment to launch an apprenticeship bursary. Starting your career and embarking on an apprenticeship should be an exciting time but, our experience has shown us that, for some people, the costs of entering the workplace itself can become a barrier. We wanted to take action that would have a direct benefit at an individual level, hopefully with this bursary we can open up access to our apprenticeships even further,” commented Jan Atkinson, talent and organisational development director at Kier.
To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2019 (4 – 8 March), an international engineering association announced it is forming the first ever academic partnership agreement with a further education college in the UK. The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), which has 92,000 members globally, attended the Hunslet Campus of Leeds College of Building yesterday (Tuesday 5 March) to launch the partnership. The agreement, usually reserved for higher education institutions, is designed to advance the capabilities of the next generation of engineers. Until now, ICE academic partnerships have allowed undergraduate and postgraduate students, both on-campus and globally, to complete part of their professional engineering training while studying at university. Now, students at a further-education level will be able to access the same pathway to attaining a professional qualification and have the opportunity for broader connections with employers. During the launch event, five ICE ‘QUEST Technician Scholarships’ were awarded to top Apprentices at Leeds College of Building (Ruth Watson, William Rose, Tim O’Connor, Joshua Clarke, and Chris Meredith) and one to a student from Leeds Beckett University (Amy Farrell). These highly sought-after and well-respected Quest Scholarships are considered in industry to be a benchmark of excellence and are only awarded to candidates who display exceptional abilities and potential. Penny Marshall, Regional Director for ICE Yorkshire and Humber, said: “This exciting new agreement opens up opportunities for students to engage directly with industry. QUEST Scholarships are a sign of true excellence. Winners need to be both good leaders and team players; with ambition, determination and the ability to act and think independently. The 2019 scholars are all very talented and deserving winners. Their enthusiasm, determination and dedication clearly impressed the panel of judges. There’s no doubt they all have promising careers ahead of them.” Vicky Patterson, Curriculum Manager for Technical and Professional Apprenticeships at Leeds College of Building, said: “Since being named as BTEC Apprenticeship Provider of the Year in 2018, Leeds College of Building has solidified its position as a leader in the sector. Now, getting chosen by ICE for the first ever UK college academic partnership agreement, we are in a better position than ever to go above and beyond our normal duties to enhance the Apprentice’s experiences and ensure that we produce the most creative and brilliant young Technicians and Engineers of the future.” To find out more about Apprenticeship opportunities, visit the Apprenticeship Open Event on Thursday 7 March, 5-7pm, at the Leeds College of Building North Street Campus.
Amid recent news that apprenticeship figures are still falling, the UK construction firm nmcn is driving demand for apprentices nationwide. More than 10% of employees at nmcn are currently participating in an apprenticeship, a figure that is expected to rise to 12% when the company’s graduate scheme is brought into the apprenticeship levy. “We’re training tomorrow’s talent to be our future. Apprenticeships aren’t a tick box exercise, we truly believe they are creating a legacy for the business. Over the last five years more than 270 of our people have been enrolled in an apprenticeship scheme and in that time we have seen a noticeable shift in the attitudes towards apprentices within the business. There’s been a pull to push shift, previously, managers needed to be persuaded to take on apprentices, now those managers are driving the demand. They see the value and momentum that apprentices can bring,” commented Karen Morris, nmcn’s group HR director. The latest statistics from the government show apprenticeships falling 15% behind pre-levy figures. “The apprenticeship levy has enabled us to open up training opportunities across the business in areas that can directly impact on our business growth right now. So while we’re developing the talent of the future we’re also investing in the business today,” added Karen.
National Apprenticeship Week runs from 4 to 8 March and this year the theme will be Blaze a trail – Fire It Up, showcasing how apprentices bring new energy and passion into any businesses. Yorkshire Housing will celebrate the success of their apprenticeship programme by showcasing apprenticeships as a pathway to a great career. A great example of the passion apprentices can bring to a business is Hannah Harrison who works the reception at Yorkshire Housing, she made a short film about her experiences for National Apprentice Week. Hannah started as an apprentice in 2016 with Yorkshire Housing. By her own admission was quite shy, so her team suggested that working on reception could boost her confidence and help with her personal development. With help and support Hannah started on reception and quickly began dealing with a wide range of people in person, which really helped her to develop her confidence. After Hannah’s apprenticeship ended, she got the receptionists job at Yorkshire Housing permanently. Hannah Harrison said: “I was really glad to start my apprenticeship at Yorkshire Housing, it really helped my personal development I love working with Yorkshire Housing, it’s such a family environment and I’d recommend anyone to get an apprenticeship with Yorkshire Housing.” As part of the National Apprentice Week Yorkshire Housing apprentices will be taking part in a wide range of activities. Our apprentices will be going back to their old schools to talk about their experiences and recruit potential apprentices of the future. Muhammad Uddin will also be representing Yorkshire Housing at Parliament at a specially organised National Apprentice event. Our apprentices will also be taking part at the Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair in the First Direct Arena on Monday 4 March. Since opening its doors to its first apprentice in 2007, Yorkshire Housing has seen over 100 apprentices working with us, with over 70 percent securing fulltime positions. This year, a variety of opportunities including construction-based roles in building services, gas and electric as well as office-based jobs, will be available. Apprentices can gain a fully funded nationally recognised qualification as well as real work experience in teams across Yorkshire. Senior people development coordinator Kiran Olak said: “Yorkshire Housing’s apprenticeship programme has seen apprentices develop, grow and progress within their chosen career, providing a pipeline of skills and talent to meet current and future business needs. As a top 100 apprenticeship employer our apprentices are proud to work for us and we’re passionate in supporting the success of our apprentices.” If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to shine, point them in the direction of Yorkshire Housing’s apprenticeship scheme where they can grow their skills, gain a professional qualification, earn above the national minimum wage and build a firm foundation for the start of a new and exciting career. Applications will be accepted between 18 March and 29 April. You can find out more on our apprenticeship pages.
The best-of-class in south-west Scotland’s construction sector are set to be honoured in the area’s first-ever awards focused on those actively excelling at upskilling their workforce. Contractors on projects for hub South West – the partnership dedicated to community infrastructure projects in Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway – will discover who is leading the way in training and recruitment at a ceremony taking place on May 16 at the Dalziel Park Hotel in Motherwell. The awards will commend local companies for their commitment to inspiring the next generation of professionals within the industry, as well as those firms committed to nurturing staff already working in the sector. The South West Skills & Training Awards will be divided into two categories: Best Training Culture and Best Employment Initiative for Young People. In each category, there will be a winner for firms employing more than 25 people, and those with staffing of 25 or less. All entries must be directly linked to a hub South West project, meaning that any entry must be directly connected to an initiative contracted by the partnership. Finalists will be expected to give a short presentation on their company’s initiative on the day to a small panel of representatives from CITB and Skills Development Scotland. Tier-1 contractors are encouraged to nominate sub-contractors from their supply chains. The deadline for entries is March 29. For more information and to enter these awards visit https://hubsouthwestscotland.co.uk/skillsacademy/skills-training-awards-2019. Michael McBrearty, chief executive of hub South West, said the awards mark an important new phase in the partnership’s commitment to raising the bar within the industry. “The skills shortages we have within this sector have been widely-reported and are well-known,” he said. “In addition to supporting the project’s commitment to engaging local communities, the small and larger firms involved with hub South West also strive to do their part in tackling wider skills issues across the industry. It is only fitting that we should applaud their efforts.” Entries are limited to one per company. Those for the category of Best Employment Initiative for Young People will be judged on the criteria of youth employment, the introduction of construction as a viable career path, structured framework apprenticeships, graduate programmes and initiatives targeted at women, the disadvantaged and the disabled. Best Training Culture will examine ideas and programmes that have proven successful, with a learning platform that encourages training and staff development that underpins the overall development of the business. The hub South West partnership was established in 2012 to deliver value for money on public sector community-based infrastructure projects to generate growth in local economies across Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway. Since then, it has successfully completed projects with a total value of more than £380m.
Curtis Hope has been selected to receive an award run jointly by The Sheffield College and repairs, maintenance and compliance business Horbury Property Services, part of the Horbury Group based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, for ‘Apprentice of the Term’. Curtis, who is aged 17 and from Doncaster, has been with the company since August 2018 studying for a Construction Building – Wood Occupations (Joinery) Level 2 qualification, which he should complete in September 2020. He has been selected from over 60 Apprentices at Horbury Group to receive the accolade as Tyrone Hoyland, Head of Academy (Construction) at The Sheffield College explains: “Curtis has excellent attendance and timekeeping. He often works through his breaks and tries very hard in both practical and theory sessions. Nothing is ever too much effort for him. He is a great role model for any learner.” For his achievement in winning the accolade, Curtis has received a £100 gift voucher and a certificate. Noel Taylor, Training and Development Lead at Horbury Group, said: “We would like to congratulate Curtis on his award. He has proven that he has a great attitude to both work and college and is a valued member of the team.” Horbury Property Services provides a full range of services, including inspection, installation, repair and maintenance of fire doors, joinery works, fire stopping, sealing, fire compartmentation, fire alarm and emergency light testing, portable appliance testing, electrical testing and installation work, building fabric repairs as well as external cladding and render repairs. Horbury Group provides construction solutions to developers, building owners and main contractors. Within the group there are eight individual companies, each with specialist knowledge and experience, including external facades, drylining partitioning, joinery, suspended ceilings, SFS, full fit outs, refurbishment and maintenance, demountable glazed screens, decoration, structural fire protection and external wall insulation. The company prides itself on the ability to carry out multi-trade fit outs, using its own staff and skilled tradespeople to ensure the very best quality service. The Horbury Group has a turnover of more than £75m and employs around 1,000 people, with its headquarters in South Yorkshire and regional offices in London and South Wales. For more details, visit www.horburygroup.com or call 01709 515044.
David Kenkinson has been appointed by the British housebuilder Persimmon as the company’s new Chief Executive (CEO). He has been serving as the group’s interim CEO since late last year and now he will take over the role with immediate effect. “Persimmon is a great company with a bright future and I am honoured to have been asked to lead it. My priorities will be to maintain the strong operational and financial momentum of the business, to develop further our customer care operations and to bring a greater focus to our wider responsibilities as a leading UK house builder. We have a strong and committed team and I look forward to continuing to work with all my colleagues to deliver the high quality, attractively priced homes that the UK needs,” commented David Jenkinson on his appointment. For over 22 years David has been part of the company, assuming roles like Group Managing Director and serving on Persimmon’s board for over five years. Over this time he has held particular responsibility for land purchase. “After a thorough search, both within the housebuilding sector and more widely, it was clear to the Board that Dave was the best candidate for the role. Since his appointment as interim CEO last year Dave has shown both strong leadership in maintaining the Company’s track record of operational excellence but also that he is listening carefully to the views of all our stakeholders. Persimmon remains committed to its goal of being the leading volume builder of good value, traditional family homes throughout the UK,” said Roger Devlin, Persimmon’s Chairman.
Level 3 Construction students at Cambridge Regional College (CRC) have been offered an opportunity to gain valuable work experience with a major local employer. Willmott Dixon, one of the UK’s largest construction companies with a regional office in Cambridge, spent the day at CRC interviewing students on a Construction Management course in preparation for them taking part in the company’s work experience programme. The ten students made such a good impression during interview that they have all been offered a place on the programme. Natalie Sidey, Wilmott Dixons Regional community engagement officer, said “We were really impressed by the attitude of the students and how engaged they are in their course. They said it was the best decision to enrol at the college and spoke really positively about the course, expressing very clear ideas about what roles they wanted to pursue in Construction, Site Management, Surveying and Design in particular.” Phillip Grimshaw, Lecturer in Design & Construction at the College, was clearly delighted for his students, saying “Employer engagement is very important and the students really value this kind of exercise. Willmott Dixon staged a series of interviews with our learners giving them the opportunity to gain vital experience and help prepare them for the work environment”. Cambridge Regional College has some of the best construction facilities in the region with professionally-qualified and experienced tutors. Past students have gone on to study architectural technology, project management, quantity surveying and building surveying at universities including Anglia Ruskin University, Westminster, Plymouth and Leeds. Students can also go straight into work in the busy construction sector or choose to become an apprentice, for instance on a civil engineering apprenticeship.
Tim Beale has been promoted to the position of Chief Executive Officer by housebuilder Keepmoat Homes, after previously serving as Deputy Chief Executive since February 2018. He joined the firm in 2007 as Chief Operating Officer. He succeeds James Thomson, who stepped down as Chief Executive following seven years in the role but remains on the board as a non-executive director. “After seven years with the Keepmoat Homes I have taken the decision to step down as Chief Executive. I will remain involved with the business on the board as a non-executive director and am delighted that Tim will be stepping up as the Chief Executive Officer. I am fully confident that under Tim’s leadership the business will continue to go from strength to strength,” said Mr Thomson. Speaking of his appointment Mr Beale said: “I’m pleased to be taking over the role of Chief Executive Officer at Keepmoat Homes and thank James and the Board Members for this opportunity. Over the last 12 months I’ve worked closely with James and the wider management team to ensure we are consistently delivering quality new homes in the places where people need them. “Over the next year we are focusing on our operations and plan to deliver over 4,000 new homes utilising both traditional and modular construction to help meet the country’s housing needs. We will also start on site on a number of transformational projects such as Sighthill in Glasgow, Ebbsfleet in Kent and the Waterside in Leicester. These developments are long term commitments to the regeneration of key UK cities and towns which embrace their heritage but build for their future – building communities and transforming lives,” he added.
