Seddon

History

Historically, the UK construction sector has been vital for the UK economy and a key driver of growth. It contributes almost £90 billion to the UK economy in value added, comprises over 280,000 businesses, covering some 2.93 million jobs. There has, however, been a substantial fall in apprenticeship completions in construction related industries within the last three years and when combined with the aging workforce and lack of succession, it’s painfully clear that construction’s facing a significant skills shortage.

Since 2000, Seddon have directly employed 407 apprentices, with an impressive 97% retention rate. Apprentices make up over 11% of our workforce and we will continue to recruit between 15 and 20 apprentices per year. Unfortunately, this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what is needed. With the aim to inspire and support more people into the industry to tackle skills shortages, Seddon decided take action….

The Solution

Seddon forged ahead by approaching Salford City College directly and are now a proud founding partner of the Industry Partners Initiative, a joint venture between education and industry to support learners who are on fulltime vocational programmes.

What does Industry Partnership offer?

• Outstanding work/site experience opportunities for their full-time students
• Job prospects – possible transition into apprenticeship/employment
• Curriculum alignment – bringing learning to life
• CPD for Lecturers - providing insight in to new industry techniques.

What are the benefits of an Industry Partnership?

Whilst qualifications are important, on-site experience shows a potential employer that learners can apply their knowledge in a practical environment and have developed other important skills such as teamwork, reliability, and communication. It also enhances their potential in gaining employment as an apprentice on completion of the scheme as potential employers get to know students before they offer employment.

Key Achievements

Salford City College have 400 fulltime construction students, who now benefit from a closer relationship with other local contractors who subsequently joined the partnership.
The initiative has been a great success, so-much-so it has now been rolled out to all sectors and career fields offered by Salford City College.

As a result of their Industry Partnership Placements with Seddon, young learners Bradley Lydiate and Lawrence Ward, successfully gained full time employment as apprentices. Click here to read their full stories.