A housebuilder has become a patron of Preston Vocational Centre by pledging a £2,000 gold package sponsorship.

Preston Vocational Centre is a charity set up 13 years ago to provide vocational training in construction skills to children, young people and adults.

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The David Wilson Homes North West sponsorship will allow PVC to continue helping people gain new skills and qualifications.

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Martin Grayson, Centre Manager at Preston Vocational Centre, said: “Since the opening, we have seen over 6,000 learners come through our door, many of whom had disengaged from other types of education.

“Seeing our students progress and learn crucial skills like bricklaying, plastering, painting, or plumbing is rewarding.

“Financial contributions, such as our patronage packages, allow PVC to fund vital resources for our learners, for example, safety boots, paint and paintbrushes.

“PVC is also keen to engage with employers, giving young people an insight into the world of work, or perhaps even an apprenticeship opportunity with them.”

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Some of these qualifications include skills vital to the housebuilding and construction industry, including bricklaying, carpentry and joinery.

Melissa of PVC said: “We are a not-for-profit organisation funded solely by income from local schools, grants and kind donations.

“We have recently seen a massive reduction in grant funding, with school budgets squeezed. We operate on tight budgets but are keen to ensure our learners have the best experience and support we can provide.

“Supporting PVC is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of young people in the area and support them in building their confidence and putting their foot on the career ladder.”

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PVC received the first prize for ‘The Educational Establishment of the Year’ at the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) ceremony in September 2021, with judges impressed by the number of students that benefitted from the centre since it opened, along with how the organisation responded to the impacts of Covid-19.

Andrew Taylor, Planning Director at David Wilson Homes North West, said: “We always look to support organisations and charities in the areas we build, and we have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Preston Vocational Centre in this endeavour.

“I was impressed upon my visit to its facilities and could see the care and attention to detail they have put into ensuring their pupils have the highest standard of education in their chosen fields.

“We are incredibly proud to support such a vital charity close to our communities and look forward to supporting more worthy causes in the future.”

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For more information, visit https://www.prestonvocationalcentre.co.uk/.

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