An apprenticeship scheme run in partnership between Makers Construction and Walsall College received a special prize at the 2016 British Parking awards. The scheme picked up the Special Jury Award, which is presented by the panel of judges to an exceptional award entry. Judges commented: “The apprenticeship scheme goes above and beyond in its attitude, commitment to youth, recognised skill shortages and dedication to make an apprenticeship of such value resulting in guaranteed employment, and this could not go unrecognised. To commit to a 10-year programme without any government funding showed commitment not only to the industry but should be the way forward.”
Simon Lamb, Managing Director at Makers, a Lichfield-based structural refurbishment firm said: “This is a great reward for all the hard work put in by everyone connected to this apprenticeship scheme.
“Since taking on our first set of apprentices in 2014 and working closely with the college to develop a sophisticated training plan tailored to our business needs, the benefits have far outweighed our investment. It has allowed us to continue to grow and bring more apprentices on board and introduce higher level skills and qualifications, and even received recognition from the Chartered Institute of Building.”
Curriculum Manager for Construction at Walsall College, Barry Hill said: “This recognition for the apprenticeship scheme is great news and also very timely, as we are currently in talks to expand our partnership with Makers even further next year. The new scheme will see current Level 3 apprentices progress onto our new Level 4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment to develop their skills further and in line with the company’s requirements.”
Created and presented by Parking Review magazine, the British Parking Awards are an independent competition. Now in its 14th year, the awards recognise the leading examples of car park management, enforcement, design and team work. The winners were announced at a gala lunch held at the Lancaster Hotel in London on Friday 4th March.
