[L]eading contractor Wates Construction has demonstrated its commitment to improving employment and training opportunities in Cumbria by enrolling twelve candidates in its accredited Building Futures programme.
The two-week course saw participants from Cleator Moor and the surrounding areas take part in basic construction training, while also learning new skills to help them find employment.
The candidates were given the opportunity to put their training to the test as they helped with the redecoration and sprucing up of Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club’s changing rooms.
The Building Futures programme took place as part of Wates’ growing presence in the region, which includes the construction of the new £30m Campus Whitehaven. The Campus is due to welcome pupils in September 2018.
Tony Shenton, Business Unit Director, Wates Construction North West, said:
“As Wates’ presence in Cumbria increases, it is important for us to be able to contribute to the local community and our Building Futures programme is the perfect way to do so. The candidates are given an in depth insight into how the construction industry works and what employment opportunities there are available.
“It was very encouraging to see the progress of the candidates over the course of the two weeks and discovering what they plan to do next. It is vital that we continue to encourage the next generation to consider a career in construction in order for the industry to thrive.”
The programme was coordinated with support from Copeland Borough Council and Business in the Community and it concluded with a closing ceremony that saw the candidates presented with their completion certificates by Wates’ Director, Andy Wates.
Building Futures was launched in 2006 by Wates and has supported over 55% of participants into employment or further training from more than 100 programmes.
