Housebuilding training hub launched
NHBC, the warranty and insurance provider for new build homes, has unveiled a training hub in the West Midlands which it will use to help develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople starting out in house building.
The NHBC Training Hub in Tamworth has been built in partnership with Redrow and Tamworth Borough Council, with input from an industry working group.
It will be able to support more than 100 apprentices annually, and bricklaying has been chosen as the initial focus for the training hub due to the shortage of skilled bricklayers in the house building sector, which has been compounded by the pandemic.
The site is next to an active Redrow development and resembles a typical site compound, with a large covered central space for practical work alongside classrooms and welfare facilities.
NHBC chief executive Steve Wood said: “It gives me great pleasure to be able to launch the new NHBC Training Hub. By doing so, NHBC is addressing vital skills’ gaps in the industry and providing brand new employment opportunities for young people.
“Our commitment to developing the next generation of house builders aligns with the Government’s ‘Build Back Better’ campaign to support economic growth and I look forward to seeing many apprentices successfully pass through the Training Hub in the coming years.”
Housing Ministe Chris Pincher said: “I am very pleased to open NHBC’s Training Hub which will train the next generation of bricklayers and will help directly address the skills shortage in the house building sector. Apprenticeships and traineeships ensure people have the skills they need to get a well-paid job. They play a key part in the Government’s Plan for Jobs, designed to protect, support and create jobs for all ages as we build back better from the pandemic.”
