Housebuilder Newett Homes has launched its first apprenticeship scheme, reinforcing its commitment to helping young people enter the construction industry.
The programme will support talented bricklaying apprentices from across Yorkshire by combining college-based training with invaluable experience on live construction sites.
Building a pipeline of new talent
Four Barnsley College students have been selected for the inaugural two-year programme combining formal qualifications with hands on experience.
The Wetherby based developer worked with Bond Brickwork, Clover Brickwork, and Matthews and Robinson Construction to recruit apprentices. Earlier this year, the partners interviewed more than 30 college students for the scheme. They interviewed students entering their second year of brickwork training who showed enthusiasm for the trade and practical potential.
The team shortlisted 10 applicants following a rigorous selection process. They then selected Charlie Shaw, Brayden Gilman, Wayne Kamhuka and Jack Stott to join the programme.
From the classroom to construction sites
Beginning this month the apprentices will spend the next two years working towards their Apprenticeship Standard in Brickwork. At Barnsley College, they will complete the required Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 criteria and portfolios.
Alongside their studies, each will gain extensive practical experience with Newett Homes and its brickwork contractors across the company’s developments.
Their site-based training will cover every stage of constructing a new home, from foundation work through to completion. They will develop skills in bricklaying, jointing, stonework, complex brickwork and associated labouring activities. This will give them a broad understanding of the trade and the standards expected on a high-quality development.
Investing in construction careers
Newett Homes chief executive, Will Newett, said, “We are incredibly proud to welcome Charlie, Brayden, Wayne and Jack as the very first apprentices on our new programme.
“There is a wealth of young talent across Yorkshire. Our apprenticeship scheme will give ambitious and committed young people the formal training, expert mentoring and practical site experience they need to build rewarding, long-term careers.
“Developing new talent is essential to the future of construction. We aim to help close the industry’s skills gap and build a strong pipeline of highly skilled tradespeople who will maintain high standards, support the sector’s continued growth and deliver quality homes for generations to come.”
The new apprenticeship scheme forms part of Newett Homes’ wider commitment to investing in skills, creating career opportunities for young people and supporting the communities in which it builds.
Barnsley College apprentice construction manager, Andy Watson, added, “This partnership with Newett Homes gives our students an outstanding opportunity to put their learning into practice on high-quality residential developments.
“Charlie, Brayden, Wayne and Jack have shown real dedication to their chosen trade. We look forward to supporting them as they work towards their qualifications and establish their careers in the construction industry.”
