Willmott Dixon has launched an eight-week training programme in Bedfordshire alongside clients Inspired Villages and Central Bedfordshire Council.

The traineeship, which is run in collaboration with JTL, a work-place learning provider, targets teens between the ages of 16 and 18 not in education, employment or training (NEET).

By completing the course, participants will increase their prospects of securing further education course placements, an apprenticeship or full-time employment.

The traineeship builds on Willmott Dixon's 'Now or Never' 2030 sustainability strategy commitments, where 'Building Lives' forms one of its three key focus areas.

To begin with, the programme takes place in the Building Lives Academy cabin at the Dunstable Integrated Health and Care Hub – a live Willmott Dixon project for Central Bedfordshire Council.

This part of the programme will focus on employability, with workshops on CV writing, interview tips and mock interviews run with the support of Inspired Villages. The group will also work towards their Health and Safety Level 1 certificate and their CSCS card, which is essential to starting a career in the construction industry. Help with functional education skills for those needing additional Maths, English or IT support will also be available.

-- Advertisement --

The group will then spend two weeks on a live construction site, where they will work with Willmott Dixon’s supply chain in a trade of their choosing. This will be delivered at the multi-million-pound net-zero carbon retirement village Millfield Green in Caddington, Bedfordshire on behalf of client Inspired Villages.

Michelle Cotterill, director at Willmott Dixon, said: "The young people will gain a positive experience in the built environment sector and develop valuable employability skills.

"We have run similar schemes across the country that have led to exciting positive outcomes for participants. Whether this has been them having a newfound desire for further education or going on to pursue full-time careers in the construction industry.

"Millfield Green will be net-zero carbon in operation and is a fascinating site for those taking part.

"Sustainability is an important focus across the industry, and we are delighted to be working with Inspired Villages and Central Bedfordshire Council to provide valuable insight into the future of construction in the traineeship – particularly around raising environmental awareness and understanding.

"Social value is incredibly important to us as a business and we strive to leave a positive lasting legacy in each and every community we serve."

The final two weeks will be spent delivering a garden makeover project for Keech Hospice in Luton. Here they will gain valuable hands-on experience and will be joined by Bedford College carpentry and landscaping students and teachers, who are also dedicating their time to support the programme.