Students from the Building Futures programme received certificates from Wates Residential and Havering Works colleagues
There were 11 students who graduated on Friday, 6 December from the first training programme of its kind in the borough, named ‘Building Futures.’
The free two-week course included a site visit to the Napier and New Plymouth House development in Rainham to learn about the demolition process and gain hands-on experience of a construction site.
Additionally, Students were given personal development skills training, such as confidence-building and behavioural skills.
They were also given advice on CV preparation, interview skills and taster sessions in various trades.
Graduates concluded the course with a certificate presentation ceremony.
Troy Short, 28, who was living in a homeless shelter in Havering, was among the graduates from the course.
He said: “I’m so happy with the course. It was very in-depth and the tutor was amazing. It’s given me the opportunity to get back into work, get back on my feet and progress in life.
“Now I’m on an apprenticeship with a company called Kilnbridge. I’ll be doing a three-year apprenticeship in demolition and once I’ve finished I’ll have a full-time job with the company.”
The programme comes as part of Havering Council’s partnership with Wates Residential to deliver more than 3,500 new homes over the next 12 to 15 years.
As part of the project, the joint venture partners are investing in further education, training and skills for local people to support their commitment to deliver a borough-wide legacy.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Damian White, said: “The Building Futures programme is a shining example of how our regeneration projects can bring about real change for our residents, and strengthen communities in so many ways.
“Regeneration is about more than just building homes, it is about having a lasting positive influence on the people who live and work in our borough, which will continue for generations to come.
“I am thrilled for those who graduated from the course and have taken first steps into a bright future, and I would like to wish them the best of luck.”
Steve Beechey, Group Strategy Director and Managing Director of Government Affairs for Wates Group, said:
“I’m really proud of the 11 students who celebrated their Building Futures graduation on Friday. It was great to chat with them and hear about what they learnt from the course.
“Having started my career as a construction site labourer, I was able to share my journey with the students to give them an insight into the huge range of opportunities on offer to build a successful long-term career in the industry.
The partners have recently supported the Pop Up Business School in the borough which is another training and employment initiative.
More than 80 residents took part in the free business course in May, aimed at helping potential entrepreneurs and small businesses kick-start their careers by boosting their confidence and providing a mix of practical workshops.
Tags: Havering, Rainham
