With significant growth planned across Cambridgeshire and a shortage of skilled construction workers, Constructed Pathways recently piloted a new scaffolding taster session. This is its latest initiative at the Waterbeach Construction Skills Hub, a core part of the Waterbeach New Town commitment to support local people into jobs and skills opportunities in the design and delivery of the new community, backed by master developer Urban&Civic.
Delivered by Safety & Access, one of the UK’s leading scaffolding and access training providers, and supported by Lysander Scaffolding, the course was organised with the Youth Impact Programmes Team in Cambridgeshire. The training is part of the regional Youth Guarantee Trailblazer being piloted by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.
Over two days, participants took part in an immersive experience that gave them the theoretical knowledge and safety requirements to then progress onto practical exercises conducted from the ground. This approach provided the hands-on experience of scaffolding, while also encouraging communication and teamwork.
For those inspired by the taster session, Constructed Pathways and Safety & Access are helping participants gain the necessary qualification to get their foot on the first rung of the scaffolding career ladder.
George Gilbert, General Manager of Safety & Access, said: “Scaffolding is one of the most important, and most misunderstood, career pathways in construction. It is a highly regulated, safety-critical trade that demands skill, teamwork and real professional discipline.
“The industry has a genuine skills shortage and a clear route from taster sessions like this into recognised qualifications and long-term work. We are working hard through schemes like this to change the perception of scaffolding, so that more young people will see it for what it is: a skilled trade with strong job prospects, where you can be an important part of a team.”
Constructed Pathways is working with Urban&Civic and its supply chains across its three Cambridgeshire sites to drive construction opportunities for local people. Working with industry partners, training providers and local authorities, the team is showcasing and connecting local people to some of the career opportunities available in construction.
Its programme is designed to demonstrate the diverse roles within the industry and highlight the routes to entry, progression paths and job security for young people not in education, employment or training, as well as those looking for a career change.
Paul McLean, General Manager of Constructed Pathways, said: “Providing opportunities for young people to explore different career options is an important part of helping them build confidence and make informed choices about their future. Through the scaffolding taster session, participants have gained practical insight into one pathway facing a skills shortage in the construction industry.
“We are now looking to support participants into further training, work experience and other sector-based taster opportunities. We value the support of trainers and employers who are helping to engage young people and raise awareness of the rewarding careers available in construction. This programme sits alongside our brickwork and plant operative bootcamps, and planned electrical sector initiatives with local contractors.”
Find out more at www.constructedpathways.com
The industry has a genuine skills shortage and a clear route from taster sessions like this into recognised qualifications and long-term work.
