HS2 launches six-week construction training route into apprenticeships
HS2 has launched a six-week construction training programme aimed at helping unemployed West Midlands residents progress into apprenticeships on the high-speed railway project.
The programme is being delivered jointly by HS2’s West Midlands construction partners Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and Mace Dragados, which is responsible for the construction of Curzon Street Station in Birmingham.
Successful candidates will gain general operative skills and health and safety accreditation during the six-week course, with those wishing to continue into construction guaranteed an interview for an 18-month Level 2 apprenticeship.
HS2 training programme targets unemployed workers
The programme will be delivered at South and City College’s Bordesley Green campus from the 28th September.
READ MORE: Bouygues UK completes £40m St John’s CE Academy in Oxfordshire
Eight candidates will progress to apprenticeships with Mace Dragados, joining teams working on Curzon Street Station, while four will take up Level 2 apprenticeships with BBV on the railway works in Solihull and Warwickshire.
The initiative builds on existing employment and training programmes delivered by BBV across the West Midlands.
According to HS2, 2,273 unemployed local residents have already secured jobs on the project in the region, while 885 have started apprenticeships.
Julie Venn Morton, HS2 Ltd’s Senior Skills and Inclusion Manager for the region, said: “We work exceptionally hard to ensure that local residents benefit from career opportunities on HS2, and it’s great to see our construction partners working together to create more new entry-level jobs for local people.
“A project the size and scale of HS2 offers a unique opportunity to upskill the next generation and we’re proud of our achievements to date, with over 2,000 people starting an apprenticeship and over 5,700 unemployed people starting new careers on the programme.”
Apprenticeships linked to HS2 construction work
The training route is designed to provide participants with the basic skills and qualifications needed to enter construction before moving into paid apprenticeship roles.
READ MORE: Sisk appointed main contractor for retrofit of former John Lewis HQ
Beatriz Ramos Albert, Communications, Skills & Social Value Lead at Mace Dragados, said: “Collaboration is essential to maximising the social value we create through HS2, and this programme is a great example of what can be achieved when partners come together with a shared ambition.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Balfour Beatty VINCI and are grateful for the expertise and best practice they are bringing to this programme.”
Kam Hundal, Skills, Employment and Education Business Partner at BBV, said: “We’re creating more new apprenticeship opportunities for local people who are currently out of work, as part of our on-going commitment to leave a lasting skills legacy in the West Midlands.
“Candidates who successfully complete a six-week training programme are guaranteed an interview for these entry-level roles. Along the way, we’ll equip them with the skills and health and safety accreditation they need to start working in construction.”
West Midlands residents interested in the programme have been advised to register their interest through their local Jobcentre Plus.
