The University of Salford has launched two new apprenticeship programmes in construction and the built environment.
The new government and local leaders recently announced plans to build 75,000 new homes in Greater Manchester. The new North West apprenticeships from the University of Salford are part of the solution to tackling the widening skills gaps and will help realise these ambitious housing plans.
The University’s growth in apprenticeships over the last five years is impressive, the number of new apprentices in construction and built environment programmes more than doubled since 2020.
The School of Science, Engineering and Environment at the University of Salford is offering new apprenticeship programmes which are Construction Quantity Surveyor (Level 6) and Construction Quantity Surveying Technician (Level 4).
Open Days
Those interested in learning more about these fantastic new courses and other apprenticeship programmes across sectors including construction, engineering, science, healthcare and public services can sign up for upcoming Open Days on Saturday, October 12, 2024, and Saturday, November 9, 2024. Employers, looking to upskill and retain their team can complete the contact form and the University’s dedicated Apprenticeship Services Unit (ASU) will be in touch with further information.
The new government has ambitious plans for public infrastructure projects and housing, with a target of building 1.5 million homes. Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham aims to build 75,000 of them in Greater Manchester alone.*
Second in the UK for construction output
The North West is second in the UK for construction output and this forms a large part of the local economic plan for Greater Manchester, around £14.1bn from 2021-2025, in growth areas like housing and enhancing transport networks in the region.
The skills gaps and shortages in the construction industry could be a blocker to achieving these targets.
The Construction Skills Network Industry Outlook for 2024-2028 forecasts that 251,500 extra workers are needed to meet UK construction output by 2028.**
These new programmes, and others in the University’s suite of apprenticeships for those in the built environment including Civil Engineering, Construction Site Management and Chartered Surveyor, are designed to meet key skills gaps, retain the current workforce by offering pathways to progression, attract new talent and train the next generation of leaders in the construction industry.
The wide breadth of courses offered means there is an opportunity for those in the construction industry at any level – from new starters and junior members to experienced professionals – to progress and achieve their career potential.
Real-world technical education
The University is the lead partner of the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIoT), which offers real-world technical education and brings together colleges and employers in the city region including GCHQ, Laing O’Rourke, Siemens and Talk-Talk.
Scott Bell, Training, Competence and Early Talent Lead at Laing O’Rourke, an international engineering and construction company, said: “Each and every one of our apprentices has an impact on our business, they are our future leaders and will play a huge role in our success.
“It’s essential to continuously build skills capacity within our organisation, with apprentices key to our talent pipeline. As they develop, they bring enthusiasm and new ideas, whilst energising those who support them on their journey.’’
He added: “The new programmes will allow apprentices to gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours to advance their career, gain a degree and chartered membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), and undertake a range of quantity surveying roles in the construction industry.”
Strong business links
Students taking the apprenticeship courses benefit from the University’s strong links with the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors, both local and international.
Paul Grayson, Programme Director BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying at the University of Salford, said: “Working with employers, we have designed real-life assessments, ensuring we are mirroring what is happening on construction projects.
“The apprentices benefit from co-delivery with industry professionals, including our employers being part of the assessment process, giving real-time feedback and support to our learners.
He added: “We listened to our stakeholders, and we actively developed new apprenticeship programmes in Quantity Surveying, ensuring we are supporting our employers in bridging the skills gaps and shortages in the region.’’
Knowledge and skills for the next generation
Dr Gareth Whittleston, Head of Apprenticeships at the School of Science Engineering and Environment at the University of Salford, said: “As a University, we have long-standing close ties with construction industry employers which have been further enhanced by our and industry’s engagement with degree apprenticeships since 2016.
“Through apprenticeships we have co-created curriculums, with the input of our partners in the Greater Manchester construction industry, to provide industry-relevant knowledge and skills for the next generation.”
Learn more about apprenticeships
Visit the University’s website to sign up for upcoming Open Days.
If you are an employer wanting to upskill and retain your team through apprenticeships, complete the ASU’s contact form.
*Gov/GM targets,**CSN Industry Outlook.
