Central Borders Housing Group grow their own talent

While cutbacks are happening across the country, Central Borders Housing Group (CBHG) is doing its bit for the workforce of the future by expanding its apprenticeships.

The multi-skilled trades team, Staffordshire Property Care, has taken on two youngsters and a third is currently being recruited for an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) apprenticeship based at the Group’s offices.

With unemployment rising steadily, young people are finding it increasingly difficult to get into the job market. There are fears that, when the recession ends, they will be a lost generation, with no work experience or skills to offer.

However for Connor Judge (17) from Coseley and Nathan Moore (18) from Aldridge the future is bright. The lads took up their posts with CBHG’s Staffordshire Property Care towards the end of last year. Each will undergo a four-year apprenticeship programme that involves practical hands-on experience with qualified trade mentors for four days a week, plus one day of skills-based learning. The study leads to Level 2 National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ).

Staffordshire Property Care Managing Director Ralph Middlemore said the Stafford-based Housing Group was keen to provide high-quality, skills-based training for local young people. “Given the current economic climate, it is important that we train staff to maintain productivity and a competitive edge. Our Apprenticeship Scheme allows us to grow our own workforce and talent. The up-to-the-minute skills, energy and new ideas they bring to the business help us to deliver continuous service improvements to our customers.

Speaking about his decision to become an apprentice Connor said: “It is really hard to get into the job market at the moment so this is brilliant. The CHBG apprenticeship is varied and the employment conditions are good. I want a career that is secure and a job with lots of variety. I am learning new skills all the time and I have made some good friends at college and in my job.”

Nathan added: “I would recommend apprenticeships to my friends as a great way to build potential and earn qualifications that will set them up for life. Being able to learn from experienced people who are already in the trade is great. The team at CBHG are committed to passing on their skills and always take the time to make sure I understand.”

Connor and Nathan are the latest recruits in a long line of apprentices at CBHG. The company is proud of the fact that it has retained its apprentices, including Corgi plumber Richard Allen and carpenter Paul Green, who both completed their training in 1998 and are now working on Responsive Repairs and Refurbishment Projects for Property Care.

The new ICT apprentice will join the ICT department at the Acton Gate offices and will follow an NVQ programme as well as getting on the job experience.