11 new apprentices have been welcomed at the Persimmon Construction Academy in Pontyclun.
In an innovative partnership with Bridgend College, Persimmon’s Construction Academy trains young people with the aim of plugging the widening skills gap in the construction industry.
The Academy is helping to produce the next generation of construction workers and site staff in South Wales, seeing apprentices from the local community develop their construction skills and training.
The new apprentice intake builds on the successful relationship between Persimmon Homes and Bridgend College which has developed in recent years. The housebuilder recently donated 20,000 bricks to the College to support the training of apprentices.
Local Rhondda Cynon Taf councillor, David Evans, joined representatives from Persimmon Homes and Bridgend College to welcome the new apprentices and tour the site.
Councillor David Evans, representing Brynna and Llanharan, commented:
“It is fantastic to see local employer Persimmon Homes working with Bridgend College to train new apprentices at their Academy in Llanilid.
“Training new apprentices and investing in skills development is vital for our local economy so it was a real pleasure to meet the Academy’s newest intake of apprentices to discuss their support and progress.”
Rob Clover, Employer Partnership Leader for Construction at Bridgend College, said:
“We are delighted to welcome our new intake of apprentices this year.
“Our strong partnership with Persimmon Homes continues to train young people with the aim of plugging the widening skills gap in the construction industry.
“The latest intake will have the opportunity to develop the skills and gain the qualifications needed to enjoy successful careers in the building and construction sector.”
Stephen Cleveley, Regional Chair of Persimmon Homes, commented:
“We are delighted to have welcomed another strong intake of apprentices at our Persimmon Academy this year.
“Our business is only as strong as our people, and we understand the importance of nurturing future talent to ensure a sustainable business model.
“Our innovative training initiative in South Wales is creating meaningful career opportunities for local people and supports our vision of becoming the nation’s leading housebuilder.
“The Persimmon Academy continues to grow as we invest in jobs and skills in the construction industry across South Wales.”
