Constructing the region's futures

Working with employers to build solutions.

As the 7^th largest employment sector in our region, Construction skills training has been identified as a priority for the Local Skills Improvement Plan. With this in mind, our Vice Principal, David Wilkins continues to work closely with existing and new employers to identify and deliver short training solutions to meet industry skills gaps.

As past Chair of the British Association of Construction Heads (BACH), David continues to link with over 110 colleges’ Construction Department Heads and Managers in the delivery of professional development nationally and regularly meets to discuss the training needs and how colleges can help lessen the gap.

Part of the work carried out with BACH involved lobbying the Department for Education to review the changes to qualifications, representing its members’ voice. David continues to Chair the Eastern Region BACH, remaining on the National Executive Committee to shape the work that is done. This is in addition to being part of the Northampton Construction Training Group (NCTG) which looks to close the gap in skills training required to the employers’ needs.

To find out more about how the Group works with national boards and organisations to close the skills gaps in the Construction industry or to find out more about how your organisation can work with others to shape the curriculum taught in FE colleges please email: training@bedford.ac.uk