North East-founded construction giant Barratt Developments has teamed up with the Beacon of Light in Sunderland to launch a new education programme for young adults.
The group, which was originally founded in Newcastle, has unveiled its Barratt Homes Construction Academy, a series of educational programmes which start in September at the Beacon of Light, with support from the charity Foundation of Light.
The courses will help those who take part gain work-ready qualifications and practical experience within the construction sector.
As well as raising awareness of the variety of roles available within the construction sector, the initiative has been devised to create a pipeline of young people who will have the right skills for the next generation of the construction industry.
As well as serving to bridge the construction skills gap and create education opportunities, the academy will encourage participants to be proactive in their career development by offering further education and training opportunities, work placements, apprenticeships or even employment with Barratt Homes.
The courses on offer will include the Enterprise Programme, aimed at those aged 14 years and older, the Bespoke Enterprise course for those aged 15 years and above, the Back on Track scheme for 16 to 19-year-olds and the Back in the Game course, aimed at participants aged 19 years and older.
Carl Sobolewski, managing director of Barratt Developments North East, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be launching Barratt Homes Construction Academy with Foundation of Light this September.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to support young people across the North East, helping to train the next generation of housebuilders. We look forward to seeing the academy come to life later this year and we strongly encourage anyone who is interested to apply.”
Phil King, commercial director at Foundation of Light, added: “We’re over the moon to be supported by the Barratt Homes Construction Academy at the Beacon of Light.
“It’s a wonderful scheme that will produce fantastic results with all those involved, and we look forward to seeing the future generations of the construction industry develop right here in the heart of Sunderland.”
