Construction apprentices at Preston College have had 10,000 bricks donated to them from Persimmon Homes to support their training and assessments.
AdvertisementThe donated bricks are enough to build a large three-bedroom house and it will help students and apprentices to develop their construction skills.
The industry is looking to attract the next generation of construction workers to build much-needed housing.
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Persimmon launched its Target 50 initiative to recruit an extra 50 female apprentices or technical trainees in construction facing roles this year, to build a more diverse workforce.
Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council said: “The partnership between organisations and businesses such as Persimmon Homes with colleges across the city signifies the importance of investment in staff by building a skilled and committed workforce for the future.”
Preston College Chief Executive and Principal, Louise Doswell said: “The social value and community benefit from this valuable donation will undoubtedly have a great impact.
“It not only enables our learners to develop their skills with high-quality materials, but it also allows the college to continue training future generations to become employment-ready when they leave for industry.”
Mark Taylor, Head of School for Construction and the Built Environment added: “As a college, we are committed to helping support and grow construction in the local area. This donation will allow our learners to continue their training with the very best in trade supplies.”
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Kevin Farrington Managing Director for Persimmon Homes Lancashire added: “With the need for new housing well documented, we know how important it is to support construction students and help develop a diverse, talented workforce for the years ahead. “We are particularly proud of our links to local colleges and helping young people across the region to develop the skills they need to pursue one of the many exciting careers that housebuilding has to
offer.
“Attracting young people from all backgrounds is absolutely vital to make up for those retiring from the industry. That is why we continue to build upon the 400 plus apprentices and trainees we currently have across the group and launched our Target 50 initiative to take on another 50 female apprentices and technical trainees in construction facing roles this year.”
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