Leading housebuilder Barratt East Scotland is to recruit seven new apprentices this year as part of its ongoing commitment to tackling the skills shortage in the construction industry.
The new trade apprentice roles, focused on bricklaying (three) and joinery (three), will work across Barratt’s developments in Edinburgh and the surrounding area. Barratt Homes East Scotland will also be recruiting a Level 3 Advanced Apprentice within its technical department.
This year, a total of 158 apprentices will start their careers with Barratt Developments PLC in exciting roles across the UK.
The new apprenticeship announcement comes ahead of the latest National Apprenticeship Week, running from 3 to 7 February, which celebrates the benefits of modern apprenticeships for individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
2020 is seen as a vital year for recruiting new talent into the construction industry as an estimated fifth of the current workforce will have retired by this year; according to data from the 2011 ONS Census which showed that one in five workers were aged over 55.
Skills shortages continue to be cited as a major risk to the growth and success of the construction sector, both in Scotland and across the UK. The latest construction market survey (Q3 2019) from RICS indicated that two in five respondents (41%) believe that a shortage of skilled labour remains a challenge and an obstacle to growth.
Alison Condie, Managing Director for Barratt East Scotland, said: “The construction industry is continuing to grow so there are exciting roles on offer that aren’t possible in other sectors.
“As the UK’s leading five-star housebuilder, we are committed to developing raw talent and giving young people opportunities to forge exciting new careers.”
The new apprentices, who start in the summer, will be based on a housing designated development site and will learn skills in bricklaying, carpentry, joinery or plumbing from experienced tradespeople.
They will also attend their local college to obtain qualifications and develop their trade skills.
All programmes are well structured and tailored to individual needs. Apprentices will receive encouragement, support and guidance to help them develop, giving the skills and qualifications for a successful career.
For further information about the roles available and to apply visit: www.barrattcareers.co.uk
For more information about Barratt Homes visit: www.barratthomes.co.uk.
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