Eight trade apprentices have been supported and trained during a programme of building more than 600 homes across West Browmich. The project to build the homes in Greets Green has seen the apprentices working through a two-year NVQ Level 2, with continued employment with their sub-contractors.

All the trainees have completed their full NVQ Level 2 in areas such as ground works, bricklaying, carpentry, plastering, painting and decorating and plumbing. Sandwell Council’s Future Skills team and other training providers have given training.

Karen Richards, the council’s Think Sandwell community benefits co-ordinator, has helped with the scheme. She said: "Kier have given great support to our young people and all have done extremely well showing their dedication and rewarded with permanent jobs." 

Think Sandwell, which is part of Sandwell’s Council’s Regeneration and Economy division, provides a dedicated and professional service to all developers and employers. This helps with their recruitment and training, helping to maximise employment opportunities wherever possible.

Abdul Mozzamdar, Kier's apprenticeships manager, said: "I have been working in apprenticeship training for more than 10 years now.

"I am a firm believer in apprenticeship training and the benefits which come along with it.

"The apprentices can earn while they learn and gain much-needed, real life work experience which employers are keen to see in candidates who apply for jobs in their organisations, and it’s a great opportunity to grow into a career."

Councillor Paul Moore, cabinet member for regeneration and economic investment, said: "The provision of the much-needed homes for the town is a big boost to families in Sandwell.

"And it is very encouraging that we can help with the training of apprentices on the construction of the homes to give them the opportunity to gain skilled employment in the future."