Housebuilder Newett Homes has launched its first apprenticeship scheme, reinforcing its commitment to helping young people enter the construction industry.
The programme will support talented bricklaying apprentices from across Yorkshire by combining college-based training with invaluable experience on live construction sites, helping to create a pipeline of skilled tradespeople for the future.
Four Barnsley College students have been selected for the inaugural two-year programme combining formal qualifications with hands on experience.
Working alongside its brickwork partners Bond Brickwork, Clover Brickwork, and Matthews and Robinson Construction, the Wetherby-based developer interviewed more than 30 college students for the scheme earlier this year.
The interviews took place with students heading into their second year of their brickwork course who demonstrated both enthusiasm for the trade and practical potential.
Following a rigorous selection process, the applicants were shortlisted to 10 before four successful apprentices Charlie Shaw, Brayden Gilman, Wayne Kamhuka and Jack Stott were chosen to join the programme.
Beginning this month the apprentices will spend the next two years working towards their Apprenticeship Standard in Brickwork. At Barnsley College, they will complete the required Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 criteria and portfolios while developing their knowledge and technical ability.
Alongside their studies, each will gain extensive practical experience with Newett Homes and its brickwork contractors across the company’s award-winning developments.
Their site-based training will cover every stage of constructing a new home, from foundation work through to completion. They will develop skills in bricklaying, jointing, stonework, complex brickwork and associated labouring activities, giving them a broad understanding of the trade and the standards expected on a high-quality development.
Newett Homes chief executive, Will Newett, said:
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Charlie, Brayden, Wayne and Jack as the very first apprentices on our new programme.
“There is a wealth of young talent across Yorkshire, and our apprenticeship scheme will give ambitious and committed young people the formal training, expert mentoring and practical site experience they need to build rewarding, long-term careers.
“Developing new talent is essential to the future of construction. By working closely with Barnsley College and our trusted brickwork partners, we aim to help close the industry’s skills gap and build a strong pipeline of highly skilled tradespeople who will maintain high standards, support the sector’s continued growth and deliver quality homes for generations to come.”
The new apprenticeship scheme forms part of Newett Homes’ wider commitment to investing in skills, creating career opportunities for young people and supporting the communities in which it builds.
Barnsley College apprentice construction manager, Andy Watson, added:
“This partnership with Newett Homes gives our students an outstanding opportunity to put their learning into practice on high-quality residential developments.
“Charlie, Brayden, Wayne and Jack have shown real dedication to their chosen trade, and we look forward to supporting them as they work towards their qualifications and establish their careers in the construction industry.”
For more information on the Newett Homes Apprenticeship Scheme visit https://newetthomes.co.uk/