CITB-ConstructionSkills to champion construction careers during National Apprenticeship Week

As part of National Apprenticeship Week (6 -10 February) CITB-ConstuctionSkills will host 58 events across Great Britain to champion apprenticeships as the first step on the construction career ladder.

From Bradford to Bala a variety of events will reinforce the message from the Industry Training Body and Sector Skills Council that apprenticeships are the lifeblood of the industry, being the best route into construction and offering huge benefits to employers who support them.

Planned activities range from a speed dating style recruitment event in Luton to a ‘Women in Construction’ taster day in Nottingham, as well as a ministerial visit from Jeff Cuthbert, Wales Deputy Skills Minister, who will attend the launch of an apprenticeship film. There will also be a number of events happening in schools throughout the nations to encourage young people to consider a career in construction and hear directly from apprentices themselves.

Construction employers are also being invited to attend breakfast events during the week where they can find out more about how to hire apprentices and learn about the support available including funding and grants, insurance and legal advice.

Steve Hearty, Head of Employer Services at CITB-ConstructionSkills said: “National Apprenticeship Week provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate apprenticeships and get a clear message across to young people that construction is a viable and exciting career option and that becoming an apprentice is the best way to get a solid career foundation that will stand you in good stead.

“It is also the ideal time to highlight the benefits to businesses of supporting apprenticeships. One of the greatest benefits for employers who take on apprentices is the loyalty that is returned as a result of this investment – and it is an investment. We know that many employers, especially smaller contractors are finding it difficult to commit to apprenticeships in what is still a tough market, but we are looking for ways to support all those who are interested. These events are an excellent opportunity for employers to find out more and to take some time to think about the skills and workforce they will need when the market picks up in 2013.”

For a full list of CITB-ConstructionSkills events taking place during National Apprenticeship Week visit www.bconstructive.co.uk

To find out more about apprenticeship funding and grants available visit http://www.cskills.org/levy-grant/grant/grants20112012