Construction firm Kier has launched a new on-site training and learning centre, Hard Hat Ready in Plymouth.

The facility will be a focal point for training and learning support for local residents who are interested in learning and working within the built environment.

Hard Hat Ready will be run by a local Kier team in the south-west and will provide taster talks on what the construction industry does, its focus on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), Building Information Modelling (BIM) and sustainability as well as housing and financial advice for individuals.

The course will also provide a chance to upskill, gain work experience and also secure qualifications such as CSCS Green Labourers cards, Health and Safety in a Construction Environment as well as Gateway Level One vocational qualifications in plastering, bricklaying, working in construction and working safely.

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Kier is working in partnership with Plymouth City Council, City College Plymouth, Building Plymouth, Skills launchpad, Plymouth Community Home and Seetec Outsource who are delivering the four-week rolling course.

The courses will take place at Plymouth Crematorium where Kier are currently delivering a new £30 million facility for the council.

Doug Lloyd, regional director at Kier Construction Western & Wales, said: "I am thrilled to be launching Hard Hat Ready in Plymouth.

"This centre will provide an invaluable opportunity to anyone interested in pursuing a career in construction to gain relevant qualifications and experience working on a multi-million-pound project.

"As a business who have been based in Plymouth for over 90 years, it’s important to us that we continue to leave a a positive impact on the local economy and people within the region."

Plymouth City Councillor Charlotte Carlyle, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children and Young People, said: "The Hard Hat Ready centre is a fantastic initiative that we are delighted to be able to support on the site of the new crematorium.

"Young people are being given an opportunity to gain skills, that will boost our economy, partners well with our Building Plymouth initiative and I hope that the time the students spend on our site will inspire careers that will last a life-time."