Encouraging Careers through Work-Based Learning
With a current skills shortage in the Industry, one of Osborne’s key aims through our work in the community is to encourage young people to consider a career in construction and realise the variety of roles available.
We were therefore happy to offer two placement opportunities for a one year Work-Based Learning programme in partnership with Astley Cooper School, which is being piloted as an alternative to A-levels.
Connor has joined our Repairs and Maintenance Team as a Multi-Trade Operative where he has been gaining experience across numerous trades with our Operatives and Supervisors, whilst he has also had the opportunity to utilise his new skills within our Training Facility.
He says: “Taking this course was one of the best decisions I have made and will help me in applying for the right apprenticeship.”
Erica Hodges, Work Based Learning Tutor for the programme, said after Connor’s first review; “What a pleasure and privilege it was visiting Connor. When I first met him in the he was a quiet, pleasant boy and I’ve watched him turn in to a friendly, confident young man. It’s a joy to watch.”
Ashley joined our office team who have been helping to guide his career path. Utilising his creative skills he has been helping the Community Investment Manager to research, plan and deliver events with a variety of community partners.
Ashley says: “I love my placement; I’m meeting new people and learning new skills, I feel motivated and really look forward to going to work.”
Both young men have also taken part in training, such as Dementia Awareness and Health and Safety, and attended company briefings from the Managing Director to give them the full experience of working for an established Construction company.
Osborne’s Carol Bailey, said: “Supporting programmes like this has had an extremely positive impact on our staff, who have embraced the opportunity to mentor young people and pass on their skills and knowledge. We believe this programme could really help bridge the gap between education and employment for young people.”