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CAE wins £303k to train more disabled people as access experts

CAE wins £303k to train more disabled people as access experts

BDC News Team March 13, 2024

The Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE) has now opened up its Pathways Academy training to disabled Londoners of all ages, thanks to a funding boost of £303,000 from London’s biggest independent charity funder, City Bridge Foundation. This funding will further the impactful work of the Pathways Academy over the next

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Brightons Only Construction Training Centre - Tungsten Training Centre Earns a ‘Good’ Ofsted Report

Brightons Only Construction Training Centre – Tungsten Training Centre Earns a ‘Good’ Ofsted Report

BDC News Team March 11, 2024

Tungsten Training Centre’s recent ‘Good’ Ofsted report goes beyond institutional acclaim; it reflects a deep commitment to fostering excellence and student success in vocational education across three apprenticeship standards: Installation and Maintenace Electrician, Plumbing and Heating and Gas Engineering. This achievement is a testament to the institution’s core mission of

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Lone working the next focus the electricity industry’s leading safety initiative

Lone working the next focus the electricity industry’s leading safety initiative

BDC News Team March 1, 2024

Energy Networks Association (ENA) has announced the latest theme of the industry’s leading safety initiative, Powering Improvement, is “supporting individuals working alone.” The Powering Improvement initiative, operated by ENA, is supporting the electricity sector in its drive to reduce the number of fatalities, life changing injuries or major safety incidents

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Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

Business : Training & Skills News

Inaugural National Retrofit Conference Highlights Pressing Need for Skilled Workforce as Award Winners Lead the Way

Inaugural National Retrofit Conference Highlights Pressing Need for Skilled Workforce as Award Winners Lead the Way

BDC News Team March 15, 2024

The pressing need for a skilled retrofit workforce was once again the topic of much industry debate at the UK’s inaugural National Retrofit Conference, which took place at London’s ExCeL last week. Curated by The Retrofit Academy, the three-day Conference, in partnership with Futurebuild saw policymakers, industry leaders and other interested parties share their views on the best retrofit practice that will accelerate progress toward a more sustainable future. Day one of the Conference was focused on Retrofit Policy, Programmes and Leadership with keynote speakers such as Lord Martin Callanan, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero. Discussing the Government’s plans to help decarbonise 27 million homes, Callanan and the wider panel outlined how the industry can support the Government’s plans to retrofit homes at scale. The Retrofit Academy also launched a proposed Retrofit Workforce Roadmap to highlight specifically how the business intends to train and upskill thousands of individuals to join the retrofit revolution within the next five years. This year, The Retrofit Academy will be opening a consultation with local government and industry professionals with the aim of agreeing a collaborative roadmap geared towards achieving this goal. The second day of the Conference saw the focus shift to an exploration of how the Government and industry is rising to the challenge of decarbonising 27 million homes. Multiple panel discussions addressed topics such as keeping residents at the heart of the process and the importance of creating a close team of PAS 2035 professionals capable of delivering the quality required. One of the sessions, ‘Developing our Workforce and Growing the Supply Chain’ was chaired by David Pierpoint, CEO of The Retrofit Academy, and enabled the audience to understand in real terms the approaches they can take to develop their own partnerships capable of delivering high-quality retrofit successfully. Finally, the third day of the Conference concluded with a focus on Unblocking Skills and Unlocking Innovation. This included the panel discussion on ‘Retrofit at Scale’ chaired by Loreana Padron, Associate Director at ECD Architects where the shortage of retrofit-literate architects and design professionals was addressed. The discussion followed Loreana’s contribution to The Retrofit Academy’s Domestic Retrofit Designer course. Developed by over 20 leading industry professionals over an 18-month period, the new course will help to address this skills gap by upskilling architects and design professionals around retrofit design best practice. David Pierpoint said: “The UK’s very first National Retrofit Conference was a huge success. During the three-day event, multiple industries were able to come together and discuss ways that we can tackle the challenges we face, all the way from MPs to those on the ground conducting the work. In a conference arena that was twice the size of last year, and with the apparent lack of empty seats, it was evident that the industry is really engaging with retrofit and the challenge at hand. Our team was able to have multiple meaningful conversations with interested individuals looking to upskill into retrofit and help become part of the solution, especially those looking to become retrofit designers. “As a partner to the event, we were able to shine the light on vital topics such as tackling the skills gap through our Retrofit Workforce Roadmap and how we are striving to qualify competent professionals to complete projects to the PAS 2035 standard. At the 2025 National Retrofit Conference, it will be amazing to measure the progress made and see how far we have come in achieving net zero.” Excellence celebrated at The Retrofit Academy Awards Day one of the conference concluded with this year’s The Retrofit Academy Awards which celebrated both individuals and businesses making significant effort to help decarbonise the UK housing stock. The full list of 11 award winners is as follows: Commenting further on the Awards, David added: “All of the individuals and businesses who took home awards are setting the standard for how retrofit should be conducted to achieve high quality results and pleased residents. They are showing those interested in a career in retrofit what could be achieved and how this booming industry has so much to offer those who upskill into it. Throughout the next year, all these people and businesses will go on to decarbonise the UK housing stock and lead the way for others to become next year’s nominees.” For more information about The Retrofit Academy, please click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Options Skills Offers Skills Bootcamp for Electricians to Upskill in Sustainable Technologies

Options Skills Offers Skills Bootcamp for Electricians to Upskill in Sustainable Technologies

BDC News Team March 15, 2024

Electricians can now upskill in sustainable technologies, thanks to a new Electrical Skills Bootcamp focussed on Solar Installation, EV Installation and Energy Storage Systems. Led by accredited training provider Option Skills, this program is fully funded as part of the UK government’s Skills for Life campaign, delivered by the Department for Education. The Electrical Skills Bootcamp offers comprehensive training in Solar (PV) Photovoltaic Systems, Electric Vehicle (EV) Charge Points, and Electrical Energy Storage Systems. These skills are essential in a world increasingly focused on renewable technologies. Mick Fitzgerald, Director at Options Skills, said, “Our Skills Bootcamp is a unique opportunity for electricians to stay ahead in their field by mastering sustainable technologies. It’s not just a course; it’s an investment in the future of our trade and our planet.” “To thrive in the evolving landscape of electrical work, it’s crucial to adapt and expand your skill set,” added Fitzgerald. “Our Skills Bootcamp does exactly that, preparing electricians for a future where these technologies are the norm.” The Skills for Life – Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses giving people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills. Eligible candidates must hold an N/SVQ 3 in Electrical Installation or equivalent and have the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) certification. The program includes 80 guided learning hours combining centre-led training and webinars across 6 – 8 weeks.  Currently available at their Birmingham training centre, the Options Skills Electrical Skills Bootcamp will soon be offered in Manchester and London, bringing this vital training to electricians across the UK. For more information on training opportunities, visit here. Or call 0800 802 1306. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CIOB Report Reveals Construction Industry’s Reluctance to Hire People with Criminal Convictions

CIOB Report Reveals Construction Industry’s Reluctance to Hire People with Criminal Convictions

BDC News Team March 13, 2024

Negative stigma and a lack of proper training opportunities are blocking many people with criminal records from earning a second chance at life within the construction industry, a Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) report has revealed. The report, called Building Opportunity: Employing People with Criminal Convictions in Construction, shows individuals with a criminal record face significant barriers to gaining employment within the industry including perceived risk to the business by employers and fears about business reputation. It urges the Government to break down barriers and provide more accessible training opportunities to improve individual’s employability and ease the skills shortage in the construction industry. Statistics show nearly 75 per cent of people leaving prison are still without work six months after their release. CIOB says breaking down barriers would lower unemployment amongst people with criminal convictions. Meanwhile, the Government estimates the current cost of re-offending is approximately £18 billion per year. Niamh Evans, Policy and Public Affairs Officer North at CIOB, said more people within the industry should consider an open-minded approach to hiring people looking for a fresh start, adding: “Construction companies across the UK are facing a labour shortage and there is an untapped market of potential candidates waiting to be unearthed. “However, negative stigma and a lack of access to proper training for people in prison means there are many people missing out on a second chance at life. “Companies can proactively show they are willing to consider applicants with a criminal record by making this known on their website and teaming up with organisations that support people with criminal convictions to find work. “While there are some training opportunities available for people with criminal convictions, we would like to see improved access to give more candidates a chance to develop their skills ahead of a rewarding career within construction.” CIOB’s research shows just 25 per cent of construction managers surveyed* would consider hiring a person with an unspent criminal conviction – despite the sector facing a significant labour crisis. Thirty-two per cent of respondents said they would not consider hiring someone with an unspent criminal conviction while 43 per cent said they might. More than 12 million people in the UK currently have a criminal record with hundreds of thousands of convictions remaining unspent – so candidates must declare their convictions when applying for a job. Some survey respondents said they would not hire people with criminal convictions due to the lack of trust in an individual’s behaviour and concerns over existing employees’ safety, particularly in a high-risk environment like a construction site. Despite this CIOB’s report highlights how some construction companies have already enjoyed success through hiring people with criminal convictions and specifically showcases how one large construction company and one much smaller one, are being proactive in this area. They include Williams Homes, based in Bala, Wales, which has taken on several recruits through its work with HMP Berwyn. Owain Williams, joint managing director, added: “Our initiative to provide work experience and training to individuals in our local prison has been incredibly successful. We have gained loyal workers and we have been able to tailor our supply chain to meet the company’s needs, whilst giving back to the community. “Everyone working in the prison academy and on site through temporary release receives a high standard of training. Our colleagues and clients have all supported and embraced the project as it allows us to make an immense difference to the lives of people leaving custody by broadening their career opportunities. “As we have had such a positive experience with this initiative, we are now exploring how to scale up this work and employ more people following their release from prison.” It is estimated 225,000 additional construction workers will be needed to meet demand by 2027, according to data from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). Demand for construction work is likely to increase in the years ahead with significant plans for the regeneration of the built environment in the UK, particularly with the Government’s flagship levelling up agenda and political focus on delivering a faster rate of housebuilding. CIOB obtained its data through a survey of more than 130 construction companies across the UK. To read the report in full, visit: www.ciob.org/industry/research/criminal-convictions-employment Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CAE wins £303k to train more disabled people as access experts

CAE wins £303k to train more disabled people as access experts

BDC News Team March 13, 2024

The Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE) has now opened up its Pathways Academy training to disabled Londoners of all ages, thanks to a funding boost of £303,000 from London’s biggest independent charity funder, City Bridge Foundation. This funding will further the impactful work of the Pathways Academy over the next three years, training and supporting disabled adults to kickstart careers in inclusive design and access-related roles. Over 70% of Pathways graduates are now employed in inclusion and access-related roles, with, so far, 40 disabled people trained from 14 London boroughs. Pathways has been pivotal in providing trainees with the confidence, skills, and support necessary to embark on careers in the access field. The initiative by CAE, which is part of Habinteg Housing Association, won the best career development initiative award in 2023’s Women in Housing Awards, following its launch three years prior. Trainees are equipped with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills through nine months of online and in-person theory and practical training. They also benefit from on-the-job shadowing and mentoring by industry experts, who align with their areas of interest. Fara Muneer, Head of Business Development at CAE, said: “This significant funding enables us to continue and expand the reach of the Pathways programme. It not only sustains the ongoing success of Pathways Academy, but allows us to eliminate age restrictions, making the course accessible to a broader group of disabled people in London. “This extra three years of funding provides us with an opportunity to explore further national funding for the programme.” Nicky Sutherland, a former Pathways student said, “Access to me, was a bottomless pit of standards and regulations. It wasn’t something I was interested in, but Pathways changed that. The programme has allowed me to pick apart inclusive design and see what interests me. It opened my eyes to the inaccessibility baked into many aspects of society, and it made me want to learn more.” Giles Shilson, City Bridge Foundation Chairman, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to continue to support the really important work CAE’s Pathways Academy is doing. It will help give even more disabled people the confidence, skills and support they need to forge a career in inclusive design and access-related roles.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Brightons Only Construction Training Centre - Tungsten Training Centre Earns a ‘Good’ Ofsted Report

Brightons Only Construction Training Centre – Tungsten Training Centre Earns a ‘Good’ Ofsted Report

BDC News Team March 11, 2024

Tungsten Training Centre’s recent ‘Good’ Ofsted report goes beyond institutional acclaim; it reflects a deep commitment to fostering excellence and student success in vocational education across three apprenticeship standards: Installation and Maintenace Electrician, Plumbing and Heating and Gas Engineering. This achievement is a testament to the institution’s core mission of nurturing highly skilled professionals within the building services sector. Ofsted reported, “apprentices value their learning and recognise how their training is critical for their chosen careers.” At Tungsten, the care of their apprentices is paramount, and their progression within the chosen sector has incurred “an industrious attitude to learning”. Tungsten has successfully built “an ambitious curriculum” that surrounds education quality, student behaviour, personal development, leadership, and management. Learners at Tungsten Training Centre benefit from a conducive learning environment marked by respect, professionalism, and safety consciousness, with a syllabus designed to meet the demands of local employers and equip apprentices with industry-relevant skills. “Employers value the interactions with the provider,” conveying the institution’s commitment to continuous communication and improvement. The quality of learning experiences is actively enhanced by the support and knowledge provided by tutors who strive to “adapt learning to meet individual needs…to overcome barriers and challenges.” Pedagogical approaches are utilised to ensure that all apprentices are presented with the most refined training. “What sets Tungsten Training Centre apart is its industry-focused training approach, prioritisation of holistic student development, and strong partnerships with local employers,” says Managing Director Dayna Barlow. “The centre prepares learners for successful careers through apprenticeships in highly regulated sectors like installation and maintenance electricians, plumbing and heating technicians, and gas engineering operations.” The apprenticeships offered by the centre are bespoke and provide learners with fantastic opportunities that can escalate their careers within the construction industry. Whether apprentices are learning the skills for the electrical, plumbing, or gas engineering provision, apprentices are safely taught how to apply their knowledge and skills appropriately within the workplace. For example, “apprentices studying electrical installations learn the fundamental principles of working safely and the use of hand tools to wire basic circuits before completing more challenging tasks such as fault finding and testing and inspecting their work prior to making it live. Apprentices develop the specialist skills required within the building services sectors.” Ofsted has recognised how the centre’s operations are most suitable and adequate for apprentices who are committed to the progression of their careers. As Tungsten Training Centre celebrates its ‘Good’ Ofsted report, they also look ahead with purpose and determination. The institution remains steadfast in empowering apprentices with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in dynamic work environments. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving industry landscapes, the role of vocational education providers like Tungsten Training Centre cannot be overstated. As they adapt to changing needs and embrace innovation, they pave the way for a new generation of skilled professionals poised to make meaningful contributions to society. “Receiving a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted underscores our commitment to excellence and student success,” says Dayna Barlow. “We are dedicated to providing high-quality vocational education and preparing our learners for rewarding careers in the building services sector.” For more information, please visit: https://www.tungsten-training-centre.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Investment in Early Years’ Talent Scheme helps Inco Contracts bridge the construction skills gap

Investment in Early Years’ Talent Scheme helps Inco Contracts bridge the construction skills gap

BDC News Team March 7, 2024

The continued success of an Early Years’ Talent Scheme is helping a rapidly growing principal contractor bridge a skills gap accelerated by the impact of Brexit. Inco Contracts, which delivers hundreds of industrial and commercial refurbishment schemes across the UK every year, has invested more than £100,000 into a programme that attracts, recruits, and fast-tracks enthusiastic and high-performing individuals in the construction industry. Launched in 2020, the initiative has so far recruited four people at the firm’s three offices in Stafford, Stevenage and Warrington, with every person progressing quickly into important roles in its contracts teams. They are all appointed with a mentor to oversee their development, 3-monthly training reviews to identify strengths and weaknesses, enhanced responsibility to lead and company-funded education at college or university. “The nature of the industry we work in has presented itself with more challenges than ever before, with Brexit having a huge impact on skilled workers across the UK, in particular blue-collar staff,” explained Sam Norton, Operations Director at Inco Contracts. “Our Early Years’ Talent Scheme has given us an opportunity to bridge the skills gap, but also develop individuals with the unique skills sets needed to fulfil the contracts managers role in our business.” He continued: “This is made easier by having the opportunity to train and develop staff at an early stage of their career, so by the time they have completed the programme and training, they have the skills, mentorship, and confidence to undertake their roles. Importantly, they also live and breathe our culture.” Harry Merrick has made the most of Inco Contracts’ Early Years Talent Scheme, joining as Trainee Contracts Manager in 2020 and progressing to Assistant Contracts Manager in just twelve months. He quickly secured his Level 3 BTEC in Construction and the Built Environment, a host of sector-related qualifications and is currently studying at Birmingham City University for his HNC in Construction Management. “The scheme has given me a clear pathway for progression and over the last four years I’ve been continually improving due to the experience and knowledge sharing of my colleagues and the educational opportunities I’ve been given at college and now University – all funded by the company,” added Harry. “I had a target to work towards from the very start, which is a huge motivating factor that has ultimately enabled me to gain promotion quickly. The support I received internally has ensured I have the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to progress even further.” He continued: “The plan for my future is to qualify from university with my degree in construction management, become a member of the Chartered Institute of Building and finally gain promotion as an independent Contracts Manager with Inco. “My progression in such a short amount of time has been incredible and I recommend anyone thinking about a career in construction to take a look at this initiative.” Inco Contracts has built a strong reputation for delivering more than 2100 industrial and commercial refurbishment schemes across the UK. These often tend to be turnkey in nature and involve the company working alongside architects, designers, and landlords to bring warehouse and commercial office space back to life or to the required modern-day standards. Sam concluded: “Josh Brown is our latest recruit to the Early Year’s Talent Scheme and is already impressing the team. As a business, this programme has given us so much and is now a cornerstone of our recruitment policy going forward.” For further information, please visit www.incocontracts or follow @incocontracts on Twitter. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Electrical industry celebrates green skills ahead of Scottish Apprenticeship Week – and says others must show a similar commitment to net zero

Electrical industry celebrates green skills ahead of Scottish Apprenticeship Week – and says others must show a similar commitment to net zero

BDC News Team March 1, 2024

Scotland’s leading electrical bodies say the industry is leading the way with skills and training to help power the technology of tomorrow – and are urging others to follow in its footsteps to ensure Scotland makes a successful transition to net zero. SELECT, the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) and the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) have released a new video ahead of Scottish Apprenticeship Week that reinforces the range of renewable training currently being undertaken by apprentices. The film shows how young electricians are receiving a thorough grounding in a wide range of green skills to enable them to cater for our future heat and power needs, including working with electric vehicles, battery storage, solar panels, air source heat pumps and more. But the bodies also insist that the government, homeowners and wider construction sector must also embrace the opportunities offered by renewables and work together to ensure that the transition to net zero becomes a reality. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “This video aims not only to inspire young learners to become electrical apprentices but also to show that the electrical industry is at the heart of the move to the electrification of society. “However, we also need to persuade those outwith our industry to be equally committed to the adoption and uptake of green technology to ensure that this training is not in vain and that the electricians of tomorrow emerge into a country that is willing to embrace renewables.” Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT and The Secretary of the SJIB, added: “To ensure that there is a sustainable and healthy pipeline of work for this next generation of electricians, we need the government, the Scottish people and the construction industry to use renewable technology and join us on the transition to net zero. “Such a transition needs to happen now and we all need to face the reality that we must do it sooner rather than later if we are to secure an energy-efficient future for our children and our children’s children. “More incentives for the adoption and installation of green technology and clearer advice and information on funding and grants would be a big help in encouraging take-up and ensuring the renewables skills currently being taught are successfully utilised by electrical professionals in the years to come.” Running from March 4 to 8, this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week will again celebrate the value and importance of apprenticeships, with this year’s event focusing on skills generation. Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, said: “The electrical sector in Scotland is taking the lead in skills generation, with 2,500 young people currently receiving the training necessary to cultivate complex skill sets and lay strong foundations for a long and rewarding career. “However, the vast depth of knowledge needed to become an electrician can only be obtained by completing the Modern Apprenticeship, and there are no short cuts to equipping electrical professionals with the skills they need to power our country for decades to come. “If we are to make the transition to net zero safely and securely, it is of the utmost importance that the electricians of tomorrow spend a minimum of four years learning their trade properly and completing a dedicated, tailor-made apprenticeship.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Lone working the next focus the electricity industry’s leading safety initiative

Lone working the next focus the electricity industry’s leading safety initiative

BDC News Team March 1, 2024

Energy Networks Association (ENA) has announced the latest theme of the industry’s leading safety initiative, Powering Improvement, is “supporting individuals working alone.” The Powering Improvement initiative, operated by ENA, is supporting the electricity sector in its drive to reduce the number of fatalities, life changing injuries or major safety incidents down to zero, while encouraging a more engaged and healthier workforce by 2025. The theme will help to support and empower individuals in the following areas: The Powering Improvement initiative represents a collaborative effort between ENA, industries, trade unions, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). As it enters its third phase, Powering Improvement remains focused on safeguarding the well-being of the energy workforce as the sector works to deliver the net zero transition. By promoting a positive health and safety culture, it aims to help effectively manage health and safety risks. Cordi O’Hara OBE, President, National Grid Electricity Distribution and one of ENA’s Powering Improvement champions for 2024/25, said: “I am very pleased to take on the role of a Powering Improvement Champion, particularly this year, as supporting individuals working alone is a crucial step towards making everyone safer at work.     “After more than 20 years in the energy industry I know that even with the best systems, policies and procedures in place, positive and constructive working relationships are also vital if staff are to continually improve and achieve all they can. “We need to remember staff are not just employees but partners in the sector’s journey towards net zero. By valuing and investing in our employees, we can cultivate a motivated and engaged workforce that is committed to helping the UK deliver our sustainable future.” Simon Coop, National Officer – Energy and Utilities Sector, Unite the Union, and another Powering Improvement champion, said: “I am very happy to be a champion for Powering Improvement this year. Individuals often operate in challenging and potentially hazardous environments, where their safety and well-being are paramount. By providing adequate support, businesses can help mitigate these risks and ensure the physical and mental well-being of their employees. This includes implementing robust safety protocols, offering comprehensive training programs, promoting a culture of reporting, addressing incidents of violence and harassment and regularly monitoring and addressing fatigue-related issues. “By prioritising the support of individuals working alone, businesses can create a safer and more inclusive working environment whilst fostering a sense of trust, confidence, and productivity among their workforce.“Working alongside Union Health and Safety Committees and trained union Safety Reps in the workplace pays dividends in ensuring the highest of safety standards.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HS2’s military partnership with BuildForce puts ex-forces personnel on track for new careers

HS2’s military partnership with BuildForce puts ex-forces personnel on track for new careers

BDC News Team February 28, 2024

Former service personnel from the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Air Force are receiving support to transition into new careers on HS2, Britain’s biggest build. 83 former service men and women have already moved into full-time roles on the project, with over 60 more taking up industry placements and hundreds benefiting from mentoring to support their adjustment to life outside of military service. The scale and complexity of HS2’s construction requires a diverse workforce with a broad range of skills and talents. By teaming up with community interest company BuildForce, HS2 has opened the doors to its 350 worksites and given ex-forces personnel an opportunity to apply their transitional skills in a completely different setting. HS2’s civils construction partners have all embraced the partnership with BuildForce, going the extra mile to provide mentors, coaching and wrap around support services to promote mental health and wellbeing. The transitional nature of HS2’s work placement programme, as a stepping stone into employment, has to date seen candidates progress into logistics, engineering, health and safety and project management roles, with some candidates progressing into senior management positions. HS2’s Head of Legacy, Natalie Penrose explains: “We’re committed to supporting our ex-service men and women and value the huge contribution they are already making to the delivery of Britain’s new railway. “As we begin the transition from civils to rail, more new jobs will be created at HS2 and within our supply chain, and we’re confident the ex-forces community will continue to play an important role.” Andrew Mackinnon served in the Royal Air Force as an IT security specialist but on leaving military service, he struggled to find employment that matched his skillset. Andrew approached BuildForce for support and they referred him directly to Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), HS2’s construction partner for the West Midlands. Recognising Andrew’s valuable skills, the BBV team offered Andrew a paid work placement, which he began in November 2023.  Now three months into his role, Andrew is a valued member of the BBV Innovation team, where he focuses on implementing new work processes and driving efficiencies across the project.   Andrew commented: “Joining Balfour Beatty VINCI marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in my career, after leaving the Royal Air Force last year. I’m really enjoying working on this iconic infrastructure project, which I feel is the perfect platform to relaunch my career from. The transition has been made much easier thanks to the support I’ve received from Buildforce and BBV throughout this entire process.” Speaking about the HS2 partnership, Caroline Logan, Programme Director at BuildForce said: “The depth of the skillsets within our military community is constantly responding to the changing needs of HS2 and we look forward to the future, supporting more ex-military candidates onto the project.” With three new world-class stations to be built, there are hundreds more career and work placement opportunities to come on HS2. Ex-forces personnel interested in finding out more are invited to attend an exclusive project day at HS2’s giant superhub station in Old Oak Common, West London. HS2’s construction partner, Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA is hosting the event, in partnership with BuildForce, to provide a behind the scenes tour and greater understanding of the breadth of careers available. For further information and to register for the event, which takes place on 24 April, visit https://www.buildforce.org.uk/events/buildforce-armed-forces-project-day-with-hs2-joint-venture-balfour-beatty-vinci-systra-bbvs/For information about careers and opportunities on HS2, visit hs2.org.uk/careers Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HGVC secures new contract to train 54 drivers for building suppliers

MKM Building Supplies Partners with HGVC and Govt Skills Bootcamp to train 54 Drivers

BDC News Team February 22, 2024

HGV driver training specialist HGVC has been appointed by leading builders’ merchant MKM Building Supplies to train 54 drivers under the Government’s Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving. Under the contract, HGVC is delivering funded courses, with the Department for Education (DfE) providing a 70% contribution towards the cost of training, with MKM covering the remainder.  MKM Building Supplies is the UK’s largest independent builders’ merchants and is continuing to expand across the UK, reporting a 13% increase in annual revenue last year. The business wanted to upskill existing members of staff to meet growing customer demand and support continued business growth. MKM opted to outsource the training to HGVC, for a fully managed service making use of the HGV Skills Bootcamp funding available from the UK Government. HGVC was able to immediately onboard and book drivers for every element of licence acquisition, make use of government funding and offer training in locations across the UK. James Clifford, CEO of HGVC, said: “Many UK firms that rely on drivers need to ability to ramp up their training capacity quickly in response to business growth. The Government’s Skills Bootcamps allows businesses across any sector to do just that, and we’re delighted to be working with MKM Building Supplies in this programme.” Kerry Hunt, Learning & Development Business Partner, MKM Building Supplies added:“Additional drivers allow us to meet our customer needs more effectively, so this is a critical business issue. We found the whole experience to be very smooth, and the entire process very well organised. HGVC also provided access to monthly and on-request reporting to update the training team on the progress of each delegate, so we had full visibility of where each candidate was on their training journey”. HGVC offers high-quality HGV driver training across more than 400 centres throughout the United Kingdom. Offering both small and large-scale licence acquisition programmes, it is the provider of choice for many companies across the country. HGVC leads the Driver Academy Group (DAG), a consortium comprising workforce solutions group Manpower and trade body Logistics UK. DAG was recently awarded a full extension of its contract with the Department for Education (DfE) to provide training under the Government’s extended Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving. The scheme will train and place into work thousands more HGV drivers across England over the coming year.  The DfE funding offers a lifeline for both individual candidates and employers dealing with budget constraints given the cost-of-living crisis. DAG has secured funding to train a further 2,160 individuals over the next 12 months. Within the new contract, DAG will deliver funded courses, offering employers a 70% contribution towards the cost of HGV driver training.  Since the launch of the Skills Bootcamps in HGV Driving in December 2021, the DAG has trained around 1,400 drivers. Some 1,070 trainees have now passed their practical test and are ready to drive.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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