Chance for young people to earn while they learn

Thousands of extra construction workers will be needed across the West Midlands in the coming years as the region prepares for a major building surge.

That was the message from the industry as it celebrates National Apprenticeship Week.

The construction sector is expanding rapidly, driven by plans for 12,200 new homes a year, a £2.4bn transport infrastructure programme and major schemes such as the East Birmingham Sports Quarter. 

4,000 additional workers are required annually

A £160m retrofit project to improve the energy efficiency of thousands of homes is also adding to demand.

According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), around 4,000 additional workers will be required annually. 

The biggest shortages are expected in trades such as carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing and electrical work, alongside technical roles including surveying and engineering.

To help meet this need, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker recently unveiled a £75m skills package to train more than 12,000 people over the next three years. 

The initiative is being led by Dudley College’s Technical Excellence Hub, one of just 10 nationwide focused on delivering the skills most in demand by construction employers.

20,000 work experience, training and apprenticeship opportunities

The Mayor has also pledged to work with businesses to create 20,000 work experience, training and apprenticeship opportunities for young people, with more than 17,000 already in place.

“Apprenticeships offer a great way for employers to attract future talent as well as upskilling and reskilling their existing workforce,” he said. 

“By backing investment in apprenticeships and training, we can make sure that local people get the first shot at the good jobs being created.”

Earn while you learn

Sixteen‑year‑old Max Worton is one of the young people featured during National Apprenticeship Week. Now a Level 2 bricklaying apprentice with Persimmon Homes, he said the route has given him clarity and confidence.

“You get the theory and the real‑life onsite experience. I’m gaining a qualification and earning money at the same time,” he said.

Persimmon Homes, which has more than 200 apprentices across its business, said apprentices bring “energy, fresh ideas and up‑to‑date knowledge” to the workforce.

The West Midlands Combined Authority is also expanding programmes such as Path 2 Apprenticeships and its Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Fund to help more young people into skilled, secure construction careers