A NEW training academy has been launched in York for construction apprentices.

York College was chosen by the UK's biggest housebuilder, Barratt Developments, to provide the northern learning base for its Apprenticeships Academy to develop the practical skills for a career in construction.

The college recently opened two new workshops at the Sim Balk Lane campus for the first intake of 33 Barratt apprentices, who will attend the academy on block release over the coming 18 months.

Susan Kitchener, head of business partnerships at the college, said: “This is a whole new partnership between Barratt and us, and will see York College provide much-needed skills for new entrants to the construction industry.

“The new workshops at York College will provide skills, through practical, hands-on learning in carpentry and bricklaying as part of our accelerated apprenticeship. This enables apprentices to contribute from their first day on site.”

The first intake, which comes from the north of England, will initially stay for three weeks and will be accommodated at host families in York.

They will spend the following 18 months switching their time between site and York College, and developing their skills at the new workshops.

Lee Probert, chief executive and principal at York College, said: “We’re really proud of this new partnership with Barratt, the country’s largest and best-known housebuilder.

“The company has a fantastic apprenticeship programme and fully understands the value of learning and development.

“This week marks the start of what, I’m sure, will be a long and successful partnership between Barratt and York College.”

Nick Worrall, Group HR director at Barratt Developments, said: “It’s vital that we train the skilled bricklayers and carpenters of the future to address the industry skills gap and continue building the high quality and sustainable homes this country needs.

“Our Apprenticeships Academy partnership with York College will help to address the high demand for bricklayers and carpenters needed by the industry.”