Build Salford Trainee Success

25 August 2021

Twenty-four young people are now building new careers in Salford’s booming construction industry thanks to a unique traineeship programme. 

Build Salford, which is supported by Apprenticeships at Salford City College, Salford City Council, local construction companies and social housing providers, took on 25 16-24 year olds on its latest programme with 24 of them now progressing into apprenticeships or full time jobs. The partnership has also benefitted from the increasing involvement of Salford Foundation, who have vast experience in supporting those furthest away from the labour market in Salford.

It’s one of the best results ever from the scheme which helps young people who might otherwise struggle to secure apprenticeships or job opportunities.

Allan Milne, Director of Business Development and Apprenticeships at Salford City College said: "Yet again Build Salford, so unique because of its broad array of partners, has delivered. Progressing nearly all of the young people into apprenticeships or jobs really is a tough ask, but that is exactly what has been achieved. The trainees themselves deserve so much credit. They have worked incredibly hard to ensure they succeed and I am delighted that most will.” 

Councillor John Walsh, Executive Support Member for Education and Learning at Salford City Council, congratulated the trainees and said: “Twenty-four young people are now on the road to successful careers in Salford’s booming construction industry thanks to their hard work and the superb support of Build Salford." 

“This is a fantastic achievement and everyone involved should be very proud.”

Councillor John Walsh, Executive Support Member for Education and Learning at Salford City Council

The trainees, members of the Build Salford consortium and many construction employers who have contributed to the traineeship this year came together at the new Business Centre at Apprenticeships at Salford City College Headquarters to celebrate the success. Fifteen completed the Build Salford traineeship and 10 completed a secondary programme.

Build Salford is a unique traineeship programme for 16-24 year olds to get involved in if they are seeking the gateway to an apprenticeship with some of the best, local construction companies. The programme has over 20 dedicated industry partners who all have one thing in mind, to create as many opportunities as possible for young people looking to kick start their career in the construction sector.

Certificates, gift bags and custom toolkits were donated by Salix Homes and presented by Councillor John Walsh. Each custom toolkit was tailored to each trainee’s career path.

Jackie Crook, Skills and Work Manager at Salix Homes, said: “Build Salford is a unique programme that facilitates the public, private and third sectors to work together, to help young people living in some of our most deprived neighbourhoods access apprenticeships and jobs in the construction industry. Being involved in the programme and watching the young people develop their skills and seeing their confidence and belief in themselves grow is a truly incredible experience. Salix Homes is proud to sponsor such an amazing project.”

For more information on Build Salford and how to apply, click here.