Bespoke joinery manufacturer, JSJ UK, has unveiled its new skills investment strategy, prioritising apprenticeships, traditional and niche trades, and developing current and future colleagues. Buoyed by the success of its partnership with North Lancs Training Group (NLTG), managing director – and former apprentice – Jack Smith, has pledged to futureproof
Since the launch of the Heat Training Grant, Options Skills has successfully delivered training to over 700 experienced gas engineers in air-source and ground-source heat pumps. Paving the way for individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge in their installation and maintenance. The government-funded project was introduced to train 6,000 qualified heat
Watford-based housebuilder Barratt David Wilson North Thames has recently thrown open its doors to work experience for students in and around Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The work experience sectors that were on offer include roles in Sustainability, Sales & Marketing, Land and Legal teams. The housebuilder is looking for eager students
In a pioneering initiative, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) has committed to a bricklaying training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to provide employment opportunities and support for individuals transitioning out of prison. The Association of Brickwork Contractors received approval to
UK’s leading safety services company begins offering new option to its Rooftop Worker Scheme training course approved by the Mast & Tower Safety (MATS) Group and accredited by Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR). Arco Professional Safety Services has created an industry approved blended learning option to an existing working
Buildings that people use in their daily lives, such as workplaces, schools and hospitals are the focus of a new campaign to keep people safe from asbestos. Asbestos: Your Duty launching today, Monday 15 January, aims to improve understanding of what the legal duty to manage asbestos involves. The Health
To advance the UK’s journey toward achieving net zero, Energy & Utility Skills is proud to announce the establishment of the Power Generation Group within the National Skills Academy for Power (NSAP). This initiative strategically aligns with the needs of the renewable sector within the power generation industry. Power generation
FCC Environment is putting its quarry plant operators and managers through their paces with Finning training experts to improve fuel efficiencies and cut fuel burn. More than 30 FCC machine operators and plant managers have completed the Finning Eco-Drive™ operator training programme so far, which is part of a company-wide
Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has seen the second cohort of trainers graduate from its new IPAF trainee programme. Currently holding a 100% pass rate, the programme is designed to close the trainer skills gap and encourage younger people to become certified instructors. Jessica Taylor, Jennifer Roddis, Paulina
Aggregate Industries has launched its drive for its 2024 apprenticeship scheme. The leading construction materials supplier has its headquarters near Coalville in Leicestershire and 200 plus sites across the country. The business is seeking to recruit to 74 positions this year, building towards around 200 active roles across the business.
Bespoke joinery manufacturer, JSJ UK, has unveiled its new skills investment strategy, prioritising apprenticeships, traditional and niche trades, and developing current and future colleagues. Buoyed by the success of its partnership with North Lancs Training Group (NLTG), managing director – and former apprentice – Jack Smith, has pledged to futureproof his business through a continued commitment to employee training, having already invested hundreds of hours into staff development over recent years. Twelve months into a partnership with NLTG, JSJ UK has seen the benefits of partnering with a local training provider with a manufacturing specialism. With apprentices currently representing more than a sixth of the business’s workforce, JSJ UK’s training programme is in full swing, and due to get bigger. Recording record growth in 2023, the latest strategy pins continued expansion on employee development. Jack says: “I’ve always been a big believer in developing people and providing opportunities to upskill. I began my career as an apprentice, so I know how any investment of time and money pays dividends for both individuals and businesses. “As a business owner, I’ve learnt a lot. It’s not always easy to get it right, and over the last 12 months, in partnership with NLTG, the path ahead has become clearer than ever. Apprenticeships continue to be a priority – with new processes in place to boost success – and we’ll also be working to upskill current staff members and provide training for traditional trades. Our expert craftsmanship is what sets JSJ UK apart. We must invest in niche skills, such as the ability to understand detailed drawings, which creates innovative thinking, problem solving, and real attention to detail, as such skills set us apart when it comes to making our client’s vision a reality. “Over the years, our apprenticeship schemes have recorded numerous highlights. I’ve seen first-hand how an apprentice can become an invaluable member of our team, and how investing in an individual can really turn their life around.” Kane Maddran, trainee quantity surveyor, joined JSJ UK as a labourer at age 17. Over the last seven years, he completed an apprenticeship in site carpentry and site supervision and is commencing his final year of a quantity surveying degree. He says: “I’ve gained fantastic experience at JSJ UK. I’ve been on-site, in the office, and in the workshop. I’ve been supported through my career goals and am working towards ultimately becoming a chartered quantity surveyor. The benefits of investing in your own staff go both ways – my career has developed, but the business is able to develop talent in the areas it needs it most.” Meanwhile, Ross Gorman, bench hand assembler, is midway through a two-year bespoke furniture maker apprenticeship. He joined JSJ UK after moving to Preston, and through his apprenticeship has enhanced his skillset significantly. Ross said: “I’ve felt the benefit of skills investment first-hand. Before joining JSJ UK, I had been a frame builder, making beds. I’m now completing a bespoke cabinet making apprenticeship, which requires a much higher level of craftsmanship. I’ve been involved in client projects that I’m incredibly proud of – all while gaining expertise and of course, being paid to train. “I recently worked on a curved wall unit for a bespoke office fit out. It’s an impressive piece of craftsmanship that requires specialist skills to build. I enjoy the work, I’m well supported, and I know I’m always moving forward.” Elsewhere, JSJ UK has supported head of finance & procurement, Emma Stoddart, through accounting qualifications and invested in an array of other upskilling projects. Apprentice bench joiner, Nathen Rizza, who initially joined JSJ UK on an eight-week traineeship, is also underway with a two-year level 2 furniture manufacturer apprenticeship, which he is due to complete in November 2024. Jack says, “Under our new strategy, we’ll know exactly where we’re getting the talent to fuel every area of growth. We employ people that want to do a good job, and we’ll ensure they have every opportunity to do exactly that.” Andy Rae, furniture team assistant manager at NLTG, said: “Since we started working with JSJ UK in September 2022, it has been very clear that they are a company that really understands the need to invest in the future and the importance of developing their staff. “There has been good communication from them in all aspects of the apprenticeship journey and great support in helping apprentices achieve their goals. I know the apprentices have enjoyed attending our specialist training centre in Accrington and learning new skills, and I’ve no doubt that the relationship between JSJ UK and NLTG will continue to flourish.” For more information or to contact JSJ UK about a bespoke joinery project, call 01772 827173 or visit https://jsjuk.co Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Since the launch of the Heat Training Grant, Options Skills has successfully delivered training to over 700 experienced gas engineers in air-source and ground-source heat pumps. Paving the way for individuals to enhance their skills and knowledge in their installation and maintenance. The government-funded project was introduced to train 6,000 qualified heat pump installers in England. A £5 million grant was provided to give experienced gas engineers the chance to gain heat pump training, with each person receiving £500 towards the cost. Options Skills, a leading accredited training provider renowned for its specialist courses in gas, electrics and renewables, was identified as a preferred training provider for the scheme. With 10 years of experience, they provide training in the North West, West Midlands and South East regions. Since the introduction of the grant in July 2023, Options Skills has successfully delivered training to 743 people, making significant strides towards the 6,000 target. To achieve the UK Government’s target to be Net Zero by 2050, more professionals will need to be trained to install and maintain energy efficiency measures such as insulation and low-carbon technologies. The introduction of heat pumps as a source to power the heating in our homes is part of achieving this target. Giving the existing workforce access to cost-effective and quality training is essential. The course by Options Skills is delivered by their very own, experienced instructors. They have been trained to high industry standards and typically have relevant industry experience themselves. The course is accredited by LCL Awards, one of the Building Services Engineering (BSE) sectors’ foremost certification bodies. They are accredited by the esteemed United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), guaranteeing that trainees are receiving instruction that is both rigorous and meets industry standards. To find out more about Options Skills free heat pump training choices, please visit here. Or call 0800 802 1306. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Watford-based housebuilder Barratt David Wilson North Thames has recently thrown open its doors to work experience for students in and around Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The work experience sectors that were on offer include roles in Sustainability, Sales & Marketing, Land and Legal teams. The housebuilder is looking for eager students who wish to learn and grow in the sector of their choosing, as well as building vital connections within the construction and property industry. Throughout 2023, Barratt David Wilson North Thames has hosted four students across the Home Counties, giving them the chance to delve into what it’s like to work for a large housebuilder. Students from both Aylesbury Grammar School and Vandyke Upper School had the chance to work on-site at Clipstone Park, as well as visiting Barratt David Wilson North Thames’ Head Office in Watford, and finally, the chance to attend a sustainability event in London. All students gained valuable insight into the housebuilding industry to take the next step in their career, and gain hands on experience with professionals in the sector in which they will be hoping to find work in for the future. Evie-Jean Ellington-Reason, student from Vandyke Upper School, commented: “I started my work experience over the summer working in the sales & marketing suite at Clipstone Park in Leighton Buzzard. My ultimate aim is to have a career on the sales side of property, so being able to see how sales advisors at Barratt David Wilson North Thames operate with customers, present show homes and also host events was so valuable.” Pa-ansu, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “”I am thankful for the opportunity I had with Barratt David Wilson North Thames over October half term. My career goals are to go into the legal realm, so spending time with legal professionals was a fabulous insight, seeing the day-to-day duties, career progression in the industry and what skills are needed. Witnessing the expertise of professionals during meetings, while also being assigned both research tasks and case studies reinforced my passion to pursue a career in law and wasn’t something I’d be able to learn in a classroom.” Adam, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “At every stage of the work experience, colleagues were welcoming and inviting, which made me more keen for the world of work. My mentors in the Land department were incredibly helpful and proactive in inviting me to meetings, and I was able to actively participate in discussions, observe their approach to different challenges, and learn from their experiences. They patiently answered my queries and were committed to enhancing my learning, keeping me actively engaged throughout the week.” Max Ward, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “I was lucky enough to be invited to an event in central London with Barratt Development’s Sustainability team in December. The sustainability sector is something which is only going to grow so I am extremely keen in gaining as much experience to hopefully pursue a career in the industry. It was so great to meet so many industry professionals on the day and talk about the opportunities in sustainability.” Marc Woolfe, Director of Sales and Marketing at Barratt David Wilson North Thames concludes: “It is of such importance that as an established housebuilder, we can offer up work experience positions to those who live locally to our developments. From seeing how beneficial it has been for Evie, Pa-ansu, Max and Adam has made us as a team realise the benefits of teaching a future aspirer in the industry. We hope that the students enjoyed their time with us and that it has solidified their future career aspirations. We hopefully look forward to seeing or even working with them again in the near future.” If you or anyone you know are looking for some work experience in the sectors listed above, then please email erin@building-relations.co.uk or call 07727 350462. For further details about Barratt Homes North Thames, its new ‘Rent then Buy’ Scheme or the new homes at Sawbridge Park, Clipstone Park, Linmere, Kingsbrook or St Rumbold’s Fields, visit www.dwh.co.uk / www.barratthomes.co.uk or call 0333 355 8500 / 0333 355 8501. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a pioneering initiative, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) has committed to a bricklaying training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to provide employment opportunities and support for individuals transitioning out of prison. The Association of Brickwork Contractors received approval to deliver a comprehensive training programme designed specifically for those soon to be leaving prison and seeking employment. This programme at Thorn Cross Prison near Warrington not only offers vocational training but also serves as a platform for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The social value of this initiative is immeasurable, benefiting both the individuals seeking a fresh start and the employers involved. By equipping prison leavers with marketable skills and fostering their successful re-entry into the workforce, the programme contributes to reducing recidivism rates and promoting positive change in the community. To facilitate this transformative initiative, the ABC Assessment Centre is bringing its state-of-the-art training rigs into Thorn Cross prison and, in partnership with Cara Brickwork, is delivering a 16-week training programme to Level 2 Diploma students. This intensive course provides learners with the additional skills necessary to work on sites managed by ABC Members, ensuring they are equipped to sustain employment upon release. The training programme follows a model similar to that employed in partnership with Further Education (FE) colleges. However, what sets this programme apart is that the candidates are already linked to an employer before their release, ensuring a smooth transition and a greater chance of securing stable employment. Crucially, the scheme has garnered the support of eight member companies located in close proximity to the prison. These companies have committed to employing the students who successfully complete the training and rehabilitation programme, providing them with tangible job opportunities and a pathway towards a better future. The partnership between the ABC and the Ministry of Justice exemplifies a progressive and inclusive approach to rehabilitation and workforce development. By providing individuals with the necessary skills and employment prospects, this programme lays a solid foundation for successful reintegration and a brighter future. CEO of the Association of Brickwork Contractors, Eve Livett, says: “We are incredibly proud to have launched this training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. By extending opportunities for education and employment to those leaving prison, we aim to break the cycle of reoffending and empower individuals to rebuild their lives. We believe in the transformative power of second chances and the importance of offering support and opportunities for those who seek a fresh start.” Neil Allen, Managing Director at Cara Brickwork, comments: “Cara Group has been involved with Thorn Cross for many years, offering guidance and advice to the brickwork department with the aim of enhancing the prospects for prisoners when they are released. Through this established relationship, I was able to introduce the ABC to the team at Thorn Cross who have now got the contract to deliver the training courses within the prison. “The prisoners that I have spoken with and interviewed seem like genuine people who have taken the wrong path in life and need a second chance. We hope that by educating them while they are in prison will pave the path for a brighter future upon release. We want them to re-enter society with useful skills and a renewed sense of purpose. “We are soon to be taking our first prisoner out on ROTL (Release on Temporary License) and are excited about helping to advance his career towards becoming a bricklayer. We hope that when he can see the possibilities of the career that could be ahead for him, that it will discourage any future involvement in crime.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
UK’s leading safety services company begins offering new option to its Rooftop Worker Scheme training course approved by the Mast & Tower Safety (MATS) Group and accredited by Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR). Arco Professional Safety Services has created an industry approved blended learning option to an existing working at height training course. The course aims to provide delegates with the skills and experience required to safely access flat roofs in protected and unprotected areas. The blended option allows delegates of the course to complete the educational section of the course online, previously the entire course had to be completed in-person in a structured one-day session. This blended learning version of the Rooftop Worker Scheme provides a flexible learning approach with bespoke integrated virtual reality exercises. It is also more cost effective than the traditional course at a 20% reduced rate while offering the same quality of learning, experience and certification. As a blended learning course, participants will be required to complete seven online modules and a practical training and assessment session at one of four possible sites. The online portion of the course has training material that can be accessed by delegates as often as required. Once completed, candidates have 90 days to attend a practical assessment at one of Arco’s state of the art Safety Centres in Stafford, Bracknell, Trafford or Linlithgow (Scotland). Topics covered in the Rooftop Worker Scheme syllabus include: • Legislation for working at height• Risk assessment awareness• Rooftop hazards and control measures• PPE – pre use checks and fitting harness, helmet, fall arrest and work positioning lanyards• Safe use of portable ladders• Edge protection• Horizontal and vertical systems (fixed and temporary)• Climbing techniques using harnesses, lanyards, and fixed systems• Awareness of emergency procedures Falls from height continued to be the number one cause of work-related deaths in 2023 according to the latest statistics from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). Steve Dawson, Manager – Working at Height Training at Arco Professional Safety Services, said: “When it comes to working from height, regard for safety is paramount. We’re proud to be able to offer this brand-new training course carefully designed with the considerations to keep people safe when working on rooftops. As industry leaders in working at height practices, Arco understands the necessity to provide these learning opportunities with specialist support to ensure the safety of workers where it matters most.” This course is designed for all personnel that are required to access flat roof areas using a variety of access systems and harness-based fall protection equipment during their duties. The Rooftop Worker Scheme certificate will be valid for three years upon completion of the course. To find out more about this course, see upcoming course dates and to enquire about booking, visit: https://www.arcoservices.co.uk/training/course-finder/working-at-height-training/rooftop-safety-training/rooftop-safety-blended-learning Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Buildings that people use in their daily lives, such as workplaces, schools and hospitals are the focus of a new campaign to keep people safe from asbestos. Asbestos: Your Duty launching today, Monday 15 January, aims to improve understanding of what the legal duty to manage asbestos involves. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) wants anyone with responsibilities for buildings to do everything they must do to comply with the law and prevent exposure to this dangerous substance, which was widely used in post-war construction before it was completely banned in 1999. The legal duty to manage asbestos covers a wide range of buildings such as museums, schools, hospitals, and places of worship, as well as workplaces like offices and factories. Businesses and organisations responsible for premises built before the turn of the century, and especially those between 1950 and 1980 when the use of asbestos in construction was at its peak, must carry out the necessary checks and understand their legal responsibilities. People who visit or work in these buildings will not be exposed if asbestos is properly contained. But it can become dangerous when disturbed or damaged. Updated information, new templates (including an asbestos management plan template), and explanatory videos can be found on HSE’s website to help anyone who is unsure of their legal duties – or just need to refresh themselves – on what they need to do. HSE will check how asbestos is managed when visiting a range of buildings – like schools and hospitals – requiring those responsible for managing asbestos risks to ensure they have the right arrangements in place. Sarah Albon, HSE’s chief executive said: “To keep people safe from the harms of asbestos, a culture of safely managing asbestos is needed in our building industry and among those responsible for buildings. “Asbestos exposure in Great Britain is still the single greatest cause of work-related deaths due to exposures decades ago. “Together, we must protect people in the workplace and reduce future work-related ill health.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
To advance the UK’s journey toward achieving net zero, Energy & Utility Skills is proud to announce the establishment of the Power Generation Group within the National Skills Academy for Power (NSAP). This initiative strategically aligns with the needs of the renewable sector within the power generation industry. Power generation is undergoing significant technological advancements such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), energy from waste, wind, and other renewable sources. These advancements are creating numerous job opportunities, with further anticipated industry growth indicating a requirement for an additional 70,000 skilled professionals within the offshore wind sector alone by 2030. In October 2023, the world’s largest offshore wind farm, Dogger Bank, produced power for the first time, and upon full operation, it will provide power equivalent to the needs of six million homes. In addition to this, more than 15 million tonnes of residual waste is converted annually by the UK’s Energy Recovery Facilities (ERFs), enough to supply half the homes in London for an entire year. Currently, however, many employers express concerns about finding and securing the right talent. The Power Generation Group is taking steps to address these concerns by identifying skill gaps and shortages. They have already recognised the need for a targeted approach in crucial areas within energy from waste, such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage. Specialised skills such as electrical and mechanical engineering, planning and connecting, and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), among others, are foreseen as essential to meet the evolving demands of the renewables industry. Stephen Barrett, Director of Membership and Strategic Engagement at Energy & Utility Skills said: “A focus on renewables within the Power Generation Group allows us to support industry by establishing and upholding the necessary training standards, contributing to the UK’s training infrastructure, and addressing the growing demand for upskilling.” In a world where the transition to net zero is of critical importance, the focus on green skills by the Power Generation Group within the National Skills Academy for Power is a significant step forward. This move underscores Energy & Utility Skills commitment to facilitating the UK’s transition towards a more sustainable and greener energy future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
FCC Environment is putting its quarry plant operators and managers through their paces with Finning training experts to improve fuel efficiencies and cut fuel burn. More than 30 FCC machine operators and plant managers have completed the Finning Eco-Drive™ operator training programme so far, which is part of a company-wide initiative called ‘Don’t Be Fuelish’. The campaign aims to crack down on machine idle time and minimise fuel burn, as well as improving CO2 emissions and reducing operating costs. Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat® equipment and parts, launched its Eco-Drive™ operator training in 2009 aimed at refining operator skills to increase performance and crucially cut costs by giving operators the skills they need to better utilise the tools and technologies available in the equipment. Due to the popularity of the operator training, Finning recently added an Advanced Performance programme specifically aimed at managers and supervisors to enable them to better manage the fleet operations and deliver greater efficiency, safety, and productivity. Bill Stone, Group Plant Manager at FCC Environment, said: “We’ve been doing business with Finning for some time and enjoy a good working relationship with them. We started looking at all our operational data to identify how we can improve idle times – and vitally cut fuel costs – and the training delivered by Finning was an important part of that. “We’ve done four sessions of the operator training so far and feedback has been good. Many of our quarry operators have been with us for 10 years or more, but many of them don’t typically use the technology that is fitted as standard in new Cat machines which can save them time and fuel. The great thing was when they came out of the sessions, they were all fired up and telling other operators’ things they’d picked up – which was great. “I think they really appreciated the fact that they had the opportunity for one-to-one interaction with the trainer – who were on their level as former operators, so they really engaged with them. “I attended the advanced course for managers, and it was very good. For example, we learnt about the impact of using incorrect ground engaging tools and how this affects machine productivity.” The advanced course also addresses topics such as assessing and measuring equipment capability to optimise fuel usage, identifying inefficiencies as well as looking into best practice operating techniques and the fundamentals of machine application. Participants on the course develop their own site improvement plan, with the Finning team providing a follow-up review to provide any ongoing guidance and support. Bill adds: “We’ll never completely cut out zero idling, but this campaign and dedicated training with Finning experts helps the operators understand how much money is wasted in terms of fuel and repair and maintenance. Educating the managers so they understand the economic and environmental gains achieved by only having machines working when they’re needed is already yielding savings across the company.” Jonathan Davies, Finning UK & Ireland Industry Manager for Industrial & Waste and Paving, said: “When you’ve got a quarry working 2000 hours a year every penny counts, and you must make sure you get the best per cost per tonne. “While we can supply efficient and reliable machines, the greater the operator skill and efficiency the less wear and tear there is on the machine and fuel wastage and the greater the site efficiency.” Both the Eco-Drive™ Operator Training and Advanced Performance Training courses are Institute of Quarrying CPD accredited and are available from one of Finning UK & Irelands’ facilities, or group training can be delivered at a customer site. To find out more about Finning Eco-DriveTM Operator and Manager Training courses go to www.finning.com/en_GB/services/customer-training/operator-training.html Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading UK powered access provider Nationwide Platforms has seen the second cohort of trainers graduate from its new IPAF trainee programme. Currently holding a 100% pass rate, the programme is designed to close the trainer skills gap and encourage younger people to become certified instructors. Jessica Taylor, Jennifer Roddis, Paulina Stempnakowska, Robbie Hayhurst and Matt Dawson were the latest five participants to graduate. Previously, prospective trainers had to have a minimum of three years of operator experience before advancing to training others. However, this has resulted in many trainers retiring with no replacement, creating a subsequent skills gap. Designed and created by Nationwide Platforms’ Operational Training Manager Brian Sneddon and Senior IPAF Instructor Neil Laws in partnership with the International Powered Access Federation, (IPAF), the new programme accelerates the education process through a mix of face-to-face classes, on the job training and complimentary e-learning, over an intensive 10-15 week course. The course covers all aspects of operation, including an expected minimum of 150 operating hours, as well as administration and trainer management. The programme is tail ended by an intensive two-week assessment period that vigorously tests applicants’ knowledge and practical skills. Jessica, Jennifer, Paulina, Robbie and Matt had to travel to different locations to gain experience and knowledge from a variety of Nationwide Platforms depots. 23-year-old Jessica, from Teesside, came from an agricultural background and was used to operating machinery but lacked the management skills required to be a trainer. The course equipped her with the knowledge and tools to train others to match her operational experience. She commented, “The jump from operator to instructor is significant. It was eye-opening to learn how much I didn’t know, but the course quickly filled the gaps in my knowledge. I had the most amazing experience, with some great people who were always there to offer support. I would highly recommend this course to everyone.” Jennifer, 22, hailing from Hereford, previously worked on farms and construction sites, much like Jessica. Similarly adept at operating machinery, Jennifer found the IT side of the training the most challenging but the programme gave her all the support she required. She said, “Nationwide Platforms were extremely helpful, offering hands-on guidance. All the instructors were brilliant and went the extra mile to help us out. It could be extremely challenging having a great deal of information to absorb and memorise. However, as you progress, the wealth of technical information and safety information start to seep into the practical, hands-on training. I plan to take forward all I’ve learnt and do further training.” Paulina, mid-30’s and based in Leicester, was inspired by previous applicant Kelly-Ann Macgillivray to apply for the course. As a member of Nationwide Platforms’ fleet management team, Paulina had plenty of management and administration experience but far less hands-on operative knowledge. She said, “I saw how much Kelly-Ann benefited from doing this course, so when the opportunity arose, I didn’t hesitate. It’s been a tough but rewarding journey and I couldn’t have done it without the wonderful support of the tutors and other participants. One challenge I faced was the pronunciation of certain English words, as it’s my second language. Communication is vital when training other operatives, so I had to make sure my pronunciation was clear and correct. I’m now in a learning groove, and I’m keen to continue gaining more qualifications.” Robbie, 39, from Liverpool, previously worked as a regional driver within Nationwide Platforms and even before the IPAF programme came out had expressed interest in becoming an instructor. His goal now he has qualified is to upskill within the training department as much as possible. Matt, 57, from St Helens, has almost three decades experience as an SV (Specialist Vehicles) operator for Nationwide Platforms. Matt has extensive knowledge with the kit and has travelled the country operating the largest machines on prestigious projects. Now he’s qualified, he hopes to learn as much as possible with the training department. Now fully rounded trainers, the cohort are looking forward to advancing their careers with Nationwide Platforms, through further training and career development. Brian Sneddon said, “This course is a fantastic way to build your skill set in a safe and supportive environment. It’s been wonderful having a new cohort who embody the talented people we work with, displaying amazing passion and commitment to their education. “We couldn’t have done this without the support of Neil Laws, who continues to take this course from strength to strength, giving up much of his personal time to provide a high-quality training experience for the participants. I can’t wait to see more cohorts come through the programme and encourage anyone looking for a new career path or to continue their own development to apply.” As Nationwide Platforms continues to finetune the course, applications for the next intake are currently open to internal and external applicants to increase the number of IPAF certified trainers. For more information on the IPAF training programme visit: https://training.nationwideplatforms.co.uk/en-gb/ipaf-training-courses
Aggregate Industries has launched its drive for its 2024 apprenticeship scheme. The leading construction materials supplier has its headquarters near Coalville in Leicestershire and 200 plus sites across the country. The business is seeking to recruit to 74 positions this year, building towards around 200 active roles across the business. Apprenticeships allow people in the early part of their career to earn while they learn and provide the opportunity to gain qualifications alongside practical experience within a business. Two types of qualification will be offered. Higher Apprenticeships, which require A-levels or the equivalent of 80 UCAS points, and Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3) which require five GCSEs. The company works with education partners including the University of Derby, UCLAN, Liverpool John Moores University, Tiro, Mercuri and Make UK in the delivery. A variety of apprenticeships will be offered in the following specialisms: New opportunities are also being offered as part of the 2024 scheme which include: James Roberts, HR Director for Aggregate Industries, said: “We are delighted to be offering a broad range of apprenticeships again this year. “There is a real need to attract the next generation of young people to become the future colleagues and leaders of Aggregate Industries. “Across the construction industry as a whole we recognise that there is an ageing workforce and there remains huge demand to fill roles across all specialisms. “The great advantage of an apprenticeship is it offers a fantastic opportunity to those seeking out a career to learn essential skills through first-hand on-the-ground experience, alongside studying for and gaining a qualification – all while earning. “We have a clear drive to continue to evolve and lead the way in decarbonising the construction industry through accelerating green growth and having more sustainable operations. We know this is something that is important to many young people, especially when it comes to something as important as a career choice. “I’m really looking forward to welcoming the next generation of our workforce during 2024.” Callum King (19) has just completed his first year of a Higher Apprenticeship within the Concrete Products division of the business and is based at Croft in Leicester. He said: “After finishing my A-Levels I felt as though I wanted to start working and gaining valuable experience in a real job role, however I also wanted to continue studying and gain a qualification. Doing an apprenticeship has allowed me to do this, it also taught me valuable skills such as time management. In my first year I learnt a lot about the industry but also about the role I am in. “For me, the best thing about doing an apprenticeship is the ability to learn onsite and take it back to the classroom, learning valuable skills whilst actually using them is very rewarding. Doing an apprenticeship was the best decision I made. The advice I would give is to consider how you learn best. If you learn something by doing it, an apprenticeship is a great opportunity.” Harry Folwell (19) from Coalville, Leicestershire is undertaking an advanced apprenticeship in Commercial and Sales with the Surfacing Solutions division of the business He said: “I was doing my A-Levels and had no idea what it was I wanted to do. All I knew was that university wasn’t for me so I just thought I’d get my A-Levels done and look for a job. I was looking around and fortunately my friend had just done his first year as an apprentice at Aggregate Industries and told me I should take a look at what was on offer and I ended up following in his footsteps. “For me the big benefit is that you are being paid to essentially learn. There’s a lot to learn about the business and the world of work but what is good is that any support or training you need is there for you and they take you step-by-step. You really feel like you are learning a trade and getting to know how a big business works. “Obviously, it all depends on the person, but if you are unsure and not sure that you want to go to university, then you should seriously consider an apprenticeship. Just go for it, you have nothing to lose. You’re being taught and being paid.” Katie Eyre is a Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at Cauldon Cement Plant in Staffordshire. She said: “I chose the apprenticeship route as you get to gain experience alongside the theoretical side. The best thing is the hands-on side. You get to learn from experienced people on the job who have a varied range of skill sets. “Aggregate Industries is really welcoming and you are helped all along the way. It’s a great place to learn and I would recommend it to anyone.” The opportunities are now live and applications are being accepted. Virtual candidate assessments will take place after which successful candidates will be invited to on-site assessment days in the Spring. For more information about opportunities with Aggregate Industries visit our Careers webpages. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
