College Links Up with Housebuilder on New Development

LEEDS COLLEGE OF BUILDING is to work alongside The Guinness Partnership to find opportunities for students on its new 928-home project near Leeds Docks.

The development will be the largest in Guinness’s 130-year history and will provide homes the basis for a dynamic community for local people and residents.

The company has committed to working with the College to develop opportunities for students, including career talks, employability skills, site visits, work placements and apprenticeships.

Catriona Simons, Chief Executive of Guinness, said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Leeds College of Building to promote high quality training through apprenticeships in the community we serve in Leeds.

“Apprenticeships are a key way of promoting skills development and increasing diversity across the construction and housing maintenance sectors.

“This partnership will enable students to gain real experience and insight into the careers available, while contributing to the delivery of affordable homes in the Leeds area.”

Partnerships vital for college

Leeds College of Building currently has 2,500 apprentices on programme, with 2,250 of these training in the city, and a large number of apprentices progressing from the College’s 16-18 study programme provision.

The college believes strong links with organisations such as Guinness that can support students with their career choices are vital.

Derek Whitehead, CEO & Principal at Leeds College of Building, said, “Whilst classroom and workshop studies are essential, there is no doubt to the importance of site visits, work placements and job opportunities.

“Projects such as these give our students incredible insight into new developments within the industry; they benefit immensely from seeing what life is like on a live site”.