The launch of a scheme which aims to bridge the skills gap in the construction industry has seen such an overwhelming response that a further event has been confirmed.
Foundations Live 2016, which launched Hull-based construction firm Hobson & Porter’s Foundations scheme at Bishop Burton College, saw hundreds of students from across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire engaging with businesses from all walks of the construction industry.
More than 350 students, ranging from primary school pupils through to construction apprentices, have already shown a hugely positive response from the event, which kicked off the campaign to inspire and encourage people of all ages to consider a career in construction.
Foundations also brings together businesses to pledge time, support and knowledge to improve the employability and skills of construction students. Hobson & Porter works collaboratively with its supply chain partners in order to share a wealth of knowledge, time and support to improve the skills and employability of all people interested in a career in construction. As a result of this response, Hobson & Porter has already earmarked the 21st September 2017 as the date for the next Foundations Live event, again at Bishop Burton College.
GoConstruct estimates a growth rate in the industry of 2.5% each year for the next five years, equating to more than 250,000 new roles on a national level. With more than 16,000 construction jobs anticipated throughout Yorkshire and the Humber over the next five years, Hobson & Porter is working collaboratively with partners, such as building merchant Jewson and the college to address the construction skills shortage.
Hobson & Porter’s Business Development Director Dave Blades said: “Our company not only aims to provide the region with high quality construction projects, but also to provide opportunities for the community so everyone can benefit from the work we do.
“We’re delighted with the response from both the students and participating businesses who attended Foundations Live 2016 and it is really exciting to be planning the 2017 event, which aims to see more suppliers and more schools and colleges getting involved.”
Chris Reader, Jewson Sutton Fields Branch Manager, said: “Jewson is proud to support an initiative which aims to support and drive recruitment to fill potentially thousands of positions available in Yorkshire and the Humber.
“It is unprecedented for Jewson to provide support for a cause such as this on a local scale, but it is one that will ultimately make a visible difference in the local economy and will benefit our community as a whole.”
Visitors to the event included Year 4 primary school pupils from St James’ Church of England Academy, secondary pupils from Sirius Academy North & West and more than 80 construction pupils from North Lindsay College in Scunthorpe.
The Foundations programme aims to raise awareness of the opportunities available in the construction industry and enlighten people about the opportunities available by creating links between businesses and education establishments and create valuable skills to ensure people enter the construction industry with a high standard of ability. The initiative aims to continue driving personal development to enable anyone looking to enter into the construction industry to reach their goals.
Hull Children’s University, Bishop Burton College, Driffield School and Emmaus Hull and East Riding are principal beneficiaries of the scheme during the 2016/17 academic year, with the bank of good provided by Foundations partners distributed equally amongst the educational partners.
Hobson & Porter is encouraging both suppliers and educational establishments to register their interest in getting involved in the Foundations Live 2017 event next September. To register your interest, please fill in the form below:
