Construction apprentices gear up for success
Worcestershire apprentices and their employers are reaping the benefits of a local scheme designed to support small businesses in the construction industry during National Apprenticeship Week.
The Worcestershire Construction Apprentice Academy (WCAA), a non-profit charity – founded in 2014 by local building contractor Speller Metcalfe – continues its mission to strengthen the industry by supporting construction apprenticeships.
Carpentry apprentice Freddy with employer Oliver from EJ Williams & Son
This year, 10 apprentices from Heart of Worcestershire College have joined the scheme, securing placements with a number of Worcestershire-based businesses, including Owen Developments, Mills Bricklaying Services, 2 Counties Construction, Seward Joinery and Wensley Group Ltd.
Each employer has received a £500 grant to help support their apprentice, and in addition, every apprentice has been equipped with a trade-specific toolkit from sponsorship partner, Travis Perkins. This essential kit provides them with the tools required to get started in their chosen career.
“With so many of our projects delivered by our supply chain, the WCAA is our way of directly investing in local businesses and bringing fresh talent into the construction industry,” says Kate Moore, Social Value Lead at Speller Metcalfe.
“After a pause on the scheme following covid, it’s great to have the college seek these kind of partnerships once more to support their students, and we’re delighted to see it back up and running.”
Mike Ebbs, Key Accounts Manager at Travis Perkins, has been supporting the scheme since its inception, and is a strong advocate for apprenticeships: “Travis Perkins really sees the value in getting as many young people as possible into the trades, which is critical if we are going to meet the demand on today’s housing targets.”
Students at the Redditch campus receive their toolboxes
Since its inception, the WCAA has supported nearly 50 apprentices, with long-standing partnerships between Speller Metcalfe, Travis Perkins, and the Heart of Worcestershire College playing a key role in its success.
Sue Portsmouth, Training Consultant for the Heart of Worcestershire College, said: “We’re incredibly proud of all our construction apprentices and thrilled to be working in partnership with Speller Metcalfe, Travis Perkins, and many employers within the Worcestershire area.
“This achievement highlights both the hard work and the importance of apprenticeship programmes in preparing students with the skills and experience local employers value. Thanks to both Speller Metcalf and Travis Perkins for equipping our apprentices with carpentry and bricklaying tool kits at the beginning of what is hopefully going to be a very successful career.”