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HS2 launches new construction apprenticeships

Jobseekers and career changers who want to work in construction are encouraged to register for a new two-week pre-employment programme that could lead to an apprenticeship with HS2’s construction partners, Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and BAM Nuttall (EKFB).

Applications are now open for 24 new apprenticeship jobs which will start on 12th July. The opportunities are perfect for students leaving college who are eager to continue learning but also want to start earning. With no upper-age limit applied, the roles are equally suited to those who want a complete career change. No previous industry experience is required, which means EKFB is also encouraging Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire residents who are out of work to consider applying. The two-week pre-employment training programme, which begins on 12th June, is designed to help applicants consider if this is the right career move for them by providing a hands-on insight into what the roles entail.

Jhen-Nel Swanston, HS2’s Skills Manager for the region said: “Over 1,200 people have already secured an HS2 apprenticeship, and we’re delighted that 24 new candidates are set to benefit from this investment. Those who complete the programme will secure a nationally recognised qualification, coupled with valuable industry experience on Europe’s biggest infrastructure project.”

Trams to Newhaven passenger services to launch this June

control centre and driver familiarisation.

Council Leader Cammy Day said:

“As we welcome back a piece of tram history to Leith Walk, it’s fitting that we’re also able to look forward to the future of Edinburgh’s tram network.

Greater Manchester Chamber partners with CIOB

The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) offering discounted courses to Chamber members.

The CIOB Academy is a provider of online Construction Management learning for individuals and corporates, offering knowledge and skills specific to the construction sector.

The Chamber are offering 10% off CIOB courses to all Chamber members, which cover a range of options offered to many levels of experience, from beginners to experienced professionals.

The courses themselves range from project management, quality, health & safety, and contract administration. They are delivered using a flexible online learning platform, where access to course materials, interaction with trainers and fellow professionals can take place at times to suit all. Whether it would be preferable to study during lunch breaks or in the evenings, the platform is available to accommodate all needs.

Details for available courses can be found on ciobacademy.org/courses/ More information on the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce can be found at gmchamber.co.uk

Tackling skills shortages in the construction industry

Recent statistics show that three quarters of UK businesses are impacted by skills shortages. The effects of this has been decimating for the UK economy, costing businesses a reported £6.3 billion per year in temporary staff and training.

Construction is one of the most heavily impacted sectors with a hefty 85% of managers saying that they’re struggling to find suitable candidates to fill roles.

Why is there a skills shortage?

This can have repercussions for businesses, meaning that companies don’t complete work on time or within budget. Unfortunately, this can result in lower productivity and widespread delays around the country. Skills shortages would appear to be due to a combination of factors: young people. For instance, the idea that construction is out of touch with modern sensibilities.

For instance, a survey from 2019 found that 72% of female construction workers had been subject to some form of gender discrimination while 41% reported receiving inappropriate comments from male colleagues.

Construction bosses can make sites more female-friendly by taking tangible steps to promote fair representation of women in construction by championing successful women role models, tackle gender discrimination through stricter harassment policies, and update hygiene and toilet facilities to accommodate women.

Passenger services on the new tram route from Edinburgh City Centre to Newhaven are scheduled start on 7 June. The route, which has been under construction since November 2019, has been delivered within the £207.3m budget, meeting the scheduled completion date set for spring 2023.

Over recent months rigorous testing to ensure the newly constructed line, software and signals work effectively and safely has included running trams at half and full speed and eventually to timetable, work to integrate signalling and interface with Edinburgh Trams’

“The completion of this line, delivering high capacity, clean transport to the densely populated area north of the Capital, signifies our aspirations to become a sustainable, net zero city.

“By improving connectivity to the waterfront, it won’t only promote further economic development in Leith, but will bring jobs and more affordable housing too.

“We’re now counting down the days to passenger services, and I’m pleased to say this project will be delivered within budget and on time. This is thanks to a great deal of hard work and dedication from the project team and contractors involved in the construction process.”

An ageing workforce

One common explanation is that the industry grapples with an ageing workforce. According to the CIPD, there are more than 1.2 million workers over the age of 65.

As workers age, they’ll likely become more susceptible to health conditions and physical injury which increases the likelihood of absenteeism. Presently, 22% of the construction workforce is over 50 with 15% of workers in their sixties.

Rejuvenating the public image

Perceived cultural stereotypes may play a part in the slow uptake amongst

As well as this problematic public image, construction also has a reputation for technological Luddism which is again out of sync with those who are introduced to technology pretty much from birth.

Rejuvenating this wider reputation could be key to addressing this.

Savvy, forward-thinking businesses will have digitised their processes from advanced job reporting to van leasing. This creates a web of design and technology roles which may appeal more to younger, tech-literate professionals than images of cold construction sites and muddy boots. Closing this perception gap could ultimately help to close the skills gap in turn.