Hundreds of building job opportunities are opening up in Southwark for people who take part in a free three-week training course.
The Skills Centre in Rotherhithe is running the fifteen-day scheme to boost employment prospects and the general level of construction skills in the area. Anyone who takes part in the programme will get job interviews for big building projects in Southwark and neighbouring boroughs.
CEO of The Skills Centre Jon Howlin said: “We have a massive construction skills shortage at the moment, with the pandemic as well as Brexit leaving many major contractors without the manpower to fulfil the needs they have on site. So, it is great that we are able to offer these free training places to those living in and around Southwark who are completely new to construction so start them on their careers.”
Jon added: “We are particularly interested in welcoming women onto our training schemes, as diversity is still an area where we as a sector need to improve, as it is a great profession for all with many paths for career progression into all areas of construction. Our free training courses are a great first step into a wonderful career.
“What we are offering through our partnerships is a chance for people from all walks of life to get free, first-rate training with our experienced construction professionals though our site-ready programme. Candidates are guaranteed a job interview at the end of it and some of the jobs may even turn into full apprenticeships.”
A spokesman for London Square, which is running a five-year new build project in Bermondsey, said: “Supporting the city’s post-pandemic economic recovery is a priority for London Square. We’re committed to supporting neighbourhoods to thrive through locally delivered training and employment pathways with The Skills Centre.
“We hope that with sector-based training and work experience, it will hopefully give local people the skills and confidence to secure employment and apprenticeship opportunities within the construction industry.”
Anyone who passes will get a Green Labourers CSCS card, Level 1 Award in Health & Safety in a Construction Environment, and Construction health and safety certificates (including manual handling).
Anyone interested in applying should go to https://theskillscentre.co.uk/welcome-to-a-new-start-in-construction
You can also attend their open day on Thursday July 29, 11am -4pm at the Southwark Construction Skill Centre, Canada Street, Surrey Quays Road, SE16 7PJ
