Leeds College of Building and BAM Construction Partnership Celebrates Diversity

LEEDS COLLEGE of Building and Construction partner, BAM, is celebrating student diversity figures as they mark National Apprenticeship Week (NAW).

Since choosing BAM as a training provider four years ago, BAM has significantly increased the number of female apprentices enrolled on their Level 4 programme.

Construction management, site supervisor, quantity surveying, and civil engineering apprenticeships have risen from 20% to nearly 30% females. This is compared to just one in eight (12.5%) construction workers nationally (GMB, 2019).

The apprenticeship programme is also nearly three times more ethnically diverse than recorded in the construction sector. Black Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) representation stands at 15% compared to less than 6% of construction workers nationally. (ONS Labour Force Surveys)

BAM cites the inspiring diversity of staff in the Leeds College of Building lecturing team as of significant benefit to the Apprenticeship programme. Over the last decade, a focus on apprenticeships has resulted in a massive growth of the college’s technical and professional training. As well as the team who deliver it.

Build the future

Chris Tunningley, Assistant Director in the Faculty of the Built Environment & Engineering Services at Leeds College of Building, said: “Together, we can play our part in pushing the industry forwards and highlighting the diverse range of opportunities available in the Construction Industry. ‘Build the Future’ is the theme for #NAW2021. What better representation of the future than building a diverse workforce in our sector.”

The Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills spoke of her hopes for National Apprenticeship Week 2021 and what it might achieve.

Gillian Keegan said: “It’s been a tough year for everyone. However, we want the theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2021 to be a springboard to look ahead to how apprenticeships can futureproof workforces and boost careers.”

Virtual events

This year is the 14th annual National Apprenticeship Week, coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service. To celebrate, Leeds College of Building is taking part in several virtual events to mark #NAW2021:

Leeds Apprenticeship Festival (8-12 February):
Leeds College of Building is hosting a stand at this virtual event which will feature live Q&A sessions with employers and trainers throughout this week. To find out more and pre-book live sessions, visit the website here.

EN:Able Futures Webinar: Apprenticeships in Construction, Housing & Civil Engineering (11 February)
EN:Able Futures, Leeds College of Building and two employers from the industry will host a live webinar. It will take place on Thursday 11 February, 5.30pm.

The event is designed for anyone interested in finding out more about the apprenticeships and careers available in Construction, Housing & Civil Engineering. Two apprentices will also talk about their experiences and training routes. Questions will be answered via the webinar chat function. Register your interest at eventbrite.