New construction training centre helping to meet skills shortfall

The SBC Training Construction Centre has opened in Harlescott and comes as the sector is predicting an annual shortfall of 5,000 skilled people per year across the West Midlands.

The centre has received grant support from the Shropshire Council Economic Recovery Programme and aims to support some of the many people whose career paths have been impacted by the pandemic and help local businesses to fill their vacancies as the economy begins to bounce back.

In addition to apprenticeships in carpentry, bricklaying and electrical installation, the centre will also offer foundation courses which will prepare young people to progress on to apprenticeships and short return to work courses to help those currently unemployed to gain basic site skills and achieve a CSCS Card.

Young people who may be unsure of the next steps towards joining the workforce are encouraged to come forward to join foundation courses with the aim of progressing on to apprenticeships as soon as they are ready.

Colin Thaw, SBC training managing director, said: “It is great to see and hear the enthusiasm of the people who have come along to visit the centre; both individuals wishing to enrol and employers seeking to offer an apprenticeship opportunity.

"They have all been impressed by our approach to training which is in small groups with high levels of support from highly skilled craftsmen. Initially the training is available in bricklaying, carpentry and joinery and electrical trades which are reporting some of the highest skills shortages. Drawing on vast experience in the training sector and good knowledge of the local economy SBC Training is excited about being able to help fill this gap in training provision.”