In 2016, GMG embarked on a journey to find the apprentices of the future and then nurture them through education and training that aligns with the operational realities of the construction industry.
In order to find our apprentices of the future – and to help close the skills gap in the construction industry – GMG has been actively working with high schools to develop an SVQ Level 1 Introduction to Construction course, as a pre-apprenticeship module taster.
In the autumn of 2016, three five-day courses for 10 pupils each were completed in collaboration with the National Federation of Roofing Contractors. This resulted in GMG’s highest intake of trainees in one season, with 17 new Modern Apprentices being employed in January 2017.
We continue to organise work experience programmes with local schools, and in project catchment areas, with 10 or more pupils joining us each year for to experience working in the construction industry.
South Lanarkshire College in East Kilbride and GMG Contractors formed a partnership to develop an apprenticeship programme for roofers specialising in new house construction.
Both organisations worked closely with bodies such as Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), the National Federation of Roofing Contractors, the Construction Industry Training Board and leading roofing contractors.
Apprentices who undertake this training will gain an SVQ Level 2 in Roof Tiling for New House Building.
James Martin, Head of Faculty at South Lanarkshire College, recognised the benefit of this award for the industry, saying: “This award has been fully designed by industry for industry.
“We are absolutely delighted to be working so closely with GMG Contractors to be able to deliver this award for apprentices working in this sector.
“We would want to recognise and applaud their commitment to apprenticeship training.”
The students undertaking the award participate in hands-on training and off-the-job learning, which, in turn, is further complemented with live assessment in the workplace.
John McGinley, Curriculum Manager for Trowel Crafts, commented on the delivery methodology “The hybrid approach of in-college training and assessment and on-site appraisal is definitely producing really good outcomes for these apprentices.”
