Employers are being urged by ConstructionSkills to sign up to the new 14-19 Construction and Built Environment (C&BE) Diploma as the Government opens 'Gateway 2', the latest window in which companies can apply to participate in the partnerships which will deliver the Diploma.

With just one year to go until pupils begin to take the new Diploma, approximately 4,000 students studying at schools and colleges named in March’s 'Gateway 1' announcement are now able to opt to take the new qualification which has been developed with employer input.

The C&BE Diploma offers employers in the sector a real opportunity to help inform the education of young people and shape the skills of the future workforce but greater numbers are needed to come forward to offer work experience, teaching support or site visits to give students an insight into industry. A large number of employers are already involved including Wates, Balfour Beatty, Lovell, G&J Seddon, CB&I, Keir Group and Bovis Lend Lease.

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Jim Knight, the DSCF Minister of State for Schools and 14-19 Learners, delivered a key note speech outlining what is regarded as the most significant reform of education since GCSEs and the National Curriculum were introduced. He issued a rallying call for industry and education professional alike back the Diplomas.

Wates is already involved in the consortia, and Chris Simpson, Training Manager of the company said: "Here at Wates we are passionate about the continuing development of the construction and built environment industries, and fully support initiatives like the Diploma, which can only serve to improve perceptions and future recruits. Changing the image, and content of young people’s introductions to our thriving sectors are key to ensuring a larger, better prepared pool of recruits for employers like ourselves to build Britain’s future."

The Construction & Built Environment Diploma has been developed in consultation with industry to ensure it reflects the needs of employers. It combines practical skill development with theoretical and technical, taught by people with relevant industry knowledge.

It will give young people the opportunity to gain real hands on experience, previously unavailable through traditional educational methods.

(JM)