A major partnership of building firms has embarked on a recruitment drive for new apprentices in the north west of England in fields including decorating, carpentry and joinery and plumbing.
The Build Learn Grow partnership is looking to create opportunities for more than 20 apprentices as it works on the construction of some 300 homes in the Bolton, Burnley, Salford, Bury and Wigan areas. The partnership involves the Great Places Housing Group, social housing provider Bolton at Home, and the building companies Seddon and Southdale.
The recruitment drive was launched earlier this month and is seeking to take on a range of trainees who will be supervised throughout their training by qualified and experienced tradespeople.
As well as young people, the scheme is hoping to provide opportunities to people who are looking to change careers or who are unemployed and are seeking new professional and training opportunities.
Great Places Housing Group’s chief executive, Stephen Porter, said, “In this current economic climate it is more important than ever to offer people the chance to learn a trade to help them build a long lasting career in the construction industry.”
Seddon Construction’s managing director, Jonathan Seddon, said that getting involved in schemes like this was beneficial for the apprentices and for the company, as they will be able to train loyal staff for long-term dedication to the company. He said that the apprentices will carry out a significant amount of work at a micro building site at their Bolton headquarters.
“Creating apprenticeships is a key part of our commitment to making a positive impact in communities,” he said. “We’re delighted to have been able to welcome so many motivated and enthusiastic young people to the micro building site where they were able to try out different construction trades and find out more about the opportunities our industry has to offer.”