For the eighth year running, top 10 UK housebuilder Keepmoat is contributing to the future proofing of the housebuilding and construction sectors by developing a robust talent pipeline of highly skilled workers via its sought after higher apprenticeships.
As the housebuilding and construction sectors battle an unprecedented shortfall in skilled workers, with 30,000 extra construction professionals needed by 2026, Keepmoat has announced its commitment to developing young people and creating career opportunities across the UK via apprenticeships and training schemes.
In 2024, Keepmoat will deliver at least 51 apprenticeships as the business continues to hire apprentices throughout the year. As it stands six of these will be delivered as higher apprenticeships, in which the trainee will gain a qualification that is equivalent to a degree.
Zain Shafi, 20, started his Level 6 Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship last September and chose the route over studying full time at university. He explains: “Construction was always of interest to me and I particularly wanted to explore an option with hands-on learning.
“I gained employment with Keepmoat through the Government funded Kickstart Scheme, where I worked for 25 hours per week for six months. When I successful completed the Kickstart Scheme, I was offered a full-time role which gave me the opportunity to explore and enrol on my apprenticeship.”
“My favourite aspects include gaining practical skills in the building industry, meeting people and learning from mentors to increase my knowledge. I also enjoy the days I go into university to also improve my skillset from the classroom.”
Keepmoat has been delivering higher apprenticeships since 2016, and as part of these schemes the housebuilder offers qualifications in Quantity Surveying, Project Management, Engineering and HR in partnership with multiple universities including The University of Salford, Leeds Beckett University, the University of Sheffield and Liverpool John Moores.
Tim Beale, CEO at Keepmoat added: “The UK needs 30,000 extra construction professionals by 2026 to meet growing demand across the sector. As a specialist in providing local employment opportunities and training to inspire careers in construction, we’re addressing the skills shortage head-on by educating young people on the exciting opportunities available via our school outreach and apprenticeship programmes.
“The UK is also experiencing the ripples of an ageing population and the construction sector is set to see more skills leave the industry than any other area. By championing training and development and understanding that we have a clear responsibility to help deliver a sustainable future, we are prioritising education and training to inspire the next generation of employees. We have several initiatives in place to support the next generation of construction workers.”
To find out more, please visit: www.keepmoat.com/careers/apprenticeships
