Housebuilder launches apprenticeship scheme

A Yorkshire housebuilder has launched its first apprenticeship scheme to help develop the next generation of construction workers.

Wetherby-based Newett Homes has selected four Barnsley College students for the inaugural two-year programme, combining formal qualifications with experience on live construction sites.

Charlie Shaw, Brayden Gilman, Wayne Kamhuka and Jack Stott were chosen after more than 30 students were interviewed and a shortlist of ten was drawn up.

The scheme is being delivered alongside brickwork partners Bond Brickwork, Clover Brickwork and Matthews and Robinson Construction.

Beginning this month, the apprentices will work towards their Apprenticeship Standard in Brickwork, completing Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 criteria and portfolios at Barnsley College.

Alongside their studies, they will gain practical experience across Newett Homes developments, covering the construction process from foundation work through to completion.

Training will include bricklaying, jointing, stonework and complex brickwork, alongside associated labouring activities.

Bosses say the programme forms part of Newett Homes’ wider investment in skills and aims to create career opportunities for young people while developing a pipeline of skilled tradespeople for the construction sector.

Will Newett, chief executive of Newett Homes, said: “We are incredibly proud to welcome Charlie, Brayden, Wayne and Jack as the very first apprentices on our new programme.

“There is a wealth of young talent across Yorkshire, and our apprenticeship scheme will give ambitious and committed young people the formal training, expert mentoring and practical site experience they need to build rewarding, long-term careers.

“Developing new talent is essential to the future of construction. 

“By working closely with Barnsley College and our trusted brickwork partners, we aim to help close the industry’s skills gap and build a strong pipeline of highly skilled tradespeople who will maintain high standards, support the sector’s continued growth and deliver quality homes for generations to come.”

Barnsley College apprentice construction manager Andy Watson added: “This partnership with Newett Homes gives our students an outstanding opportunity to put their learning into practice on high-quality residential developments.

“Charlie, Brayden, Wayne and Jack have shown real dedication to their chosen trade, and we look forward to supporting them as they work towards their qualifications and establish their careers in the construction industry.”

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