A training scheme being run at a major development in Medway has brought in five local young people as apprentices, in a partnership between Countryside, Hyde and Joe Brennan Training (JBT).
There are currently five apprentices from the Rochester Riverside Apprentice Training Programme as the development brings some 1,400 new homes to north Kent. The initiative offers apprentices invaluable onsite experience in their chosen skill, alongside their offsite training, which together bring a valued trade skill qualification.
Apprenticeship programmes between Countryside and JBT have been in place over last five years and 78% of apprentices have it, with 100% of those subsequently gaining their qualifications. In 2018, all the apprentices taking part went on to work with Countryside’s supply chain.
Countryside apprentices have been working on the first three phases of the scheme, which is bring 489 of the homes along with a hotel and commercial floorspace.
Jamie Davies is an 18-year old from Maidstone currently four months into his apprenticeship as he works towards his NVQ Level 3 in Carpentry. He said: “I came across the apprenticeship at Rochester Riverside when I was at college and decided to apply, having completed a two-year college course in carpentry.
“Although I’m from Maidstone, Medway has some of the biggest projects around. Working on such a large-scale development as Rochester Riverside offers the experience I need, and while there’s a lot of work to be done, it’s rewarding to be part of such a huge regeneration project.
“I’d recommend an apprenticeship to anyone considering it; the hands-on training and working alongside experienced people in the industry is great for development. I already feel like I am a better carpenter than I was and I’m looking forward to learning more over the next few months.”
Andy Fancy, managing director of Partnerships South (North and South London) for Countryside, commented: “We’re proud to be equipping young people with the skills they need for a career in construction. At Countryside, improving life prospects for local people is at the heart of the regeneration process, and apprenticeship schemes are vital in achieving this.
“The improvement Rochester Riverside will make to the Medway landscape is huge, and we want the project to have a similarly transformative impact on the career prospects of local residents. Training the future workforce is crucial in any industry, but especially construction, and we are delighted to be continuing our partnership with JBT on another apprenticeship scheme.”
David Gannicott, group director of business development for Hyde, added: “At Rochester Riverside, we’re proud to support the future of the construction industry and a thriving Medway through the employment opportunities we’re creating.”
Cllr Jane Chitty, Medway Council’s portfolio holder covering employment and economic development, said: “We are delighted that Rochester Riverside, our flagship housing development, has been able to offer apprenticeships to people of all ages looking to develop their skills. Apprenticeships give people the opportunity to learn something new on the job and in an environment which provides them with work experience and career opportunities.The council works with companies and developments to encourage them to offer apprenticeships, and I would like to thank Countryside for their actions. Rochester Riverside is a fantastic project to be involved with and we wish each and every apprentice all the best for a successful career in their chosen industry.
“Medway Council has its own apprenticeship academy which offers enthusiastic people the opportunity to work in one of its departments, including regeneration, housing, HR and public health. Apprenticeships can have a real impact on someone’s life and can be a stepping stone into a great career. National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 4 March this year and we would encourage people of all ages interested in finding out about opportunities in Medway to visit medway.gov.uk”
If you’re interested in apprenticeships at Rochester Riverside, you should contact Joe Brennan on 01923 770011 or email admin@jbt-training.co.uk and mention Show House Jobs.
Your email has been successfully added to newsletter list.