Persimmon Homes brick donation helps York College build future construction workforce

Persimmon Homes, which has its headquarters in York, arranged the special delivery of materials, on Friday, to York College, in the company of City of York Councillor, Andrew Waller and MP for York Outer, Julian Sturdy MP.

The bricks, enough to build a large three-bedroom house, will be put to use helping students and apprentices develop the skills they need to begin a successful career in construction as the industry seeks to attract the next generation to deliver the Government’s target of building 300,000 new homes a year.

It is estimated that by 2025, the construction industry will require 217,000 new workers just to meet demand, according to a report published last year by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

York College Chief Executive and Principal, Lee Probert said: “The partnership we enjoy with Persimmon Homes is not only of huge benefit to our construction students but is ensuring we continue, as a College, to have a positive impact on the region’s economy.

“Given the substantial growth in the construction industry it’s vital that York College provides young people with the skills to enter the construction industry and continues to be at the forefront of providing access to high quality skills for the sector.

"We're very grateful to Persimmon for the donation of bricks. It signals their commitment to our students' learning and will support the development of their practical skills.”

Scott Waters, Managing Director for Persimmon Homes Yorkshire, added: “With the need for new housing well documented, we know how important it is to support construction students and help develop a diverse, talented workforce for the years ahead.

“We are particularly proud of our links to local colleges and helping young people across the region to develop the skills they need to pursue one of the many exciting careers that housebuilding has to offer.

“Attracting young people from all backgrounds is absolutely vital to make up for those retiring from the industry. That is why we continue to build upon the 400-plus apprentices and trainees we currently have across the group and just last week launched our Target 50 initiative to take on another 50 female apprentices and technical trainees in construction facing roles this year.

Julian Sturdy, MP said: “Partnerships between colleges and businesses are essential in helping ensure that we successfully train the workforce of tomorrow today. This donation of bricks to York College by Persimmon, provides students with vital training materials they need to hone the skills they need to successfully enter the workforce.”

Councillor Andrew Waller, Executive Member for Economy and Strategic Planning said: “I welcome the work being done by York College, with construction companies, to equip young people in York with the skills they need to embark upon successful careers in construction: an industry that has a big role to play in delivering on both our local and national net zero targets.”

Pic shows: Representatives of Persimmon Homes meet students and staff at York College, along with York Outer MP, Julian Sturdy and City of York Councillor, Andrew Waller