#NAW2021 Employer Case Study: Bloor Homes - Developing skills for the future

National Apprenticeship Week 2021

Gloucestershire College is a proud champion of apprenticeships. To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2021, we are showcasing success stories from our amazing apprentices and employers.

David Auker-Howlett, Apprentice Master at Bloor Homes shared with us how their apprenticeship programme works, and the continued success of their apprentices, even during a pandemic.

Bloor Homes - Developing skills for the future

Why does your company choose to recruit apprentices? How long have you been running your apprenticeship programme?

Bloor homes has been running their current apprenticeship programme for six years now, which was put in place to ensure that there is a high standard of training for trades to construct homes.

How do apprenticeships benefit your apprentice’s development?

Apprenticeships allow the apprentice time to develop skills and experience quickly within a supportive environment which Bloor Homes provides.

Tell us about how apprentices can progress in your business?

Trade apprentices have the opportunity to progress into site management training with the company, if they show an aptitude.

How you have been able to continue mentoring and supporting your apprentice during 202/21, even during lockdown?

At Bloor Homes Western region we have retained our current apprentices throughout the pandemic, and have also recruited three more apprentices to add to the programme. With further recruitment planned for Spring 2021, Bloor Homes are committed to the investment of training and development in the industry.

We have had a number of Bricklaying and Carpentry apprentices qualify during the pandemic, including; four bricklayers who achieved their Level 2 in September 2020 and are now self employed working on Bloor Homes sites in Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, and three carpenters who achieved their Level 2, two of which have now progressed on to the Level 3 programme.

Following guidelines, we have been able to provide almost continuous support during lockdown, because we have dedicated apprentice masters such as myself, who manage and mentor our apprentices. 

Do you have any top tips for other employers about how to best mentor apprentices?

Apprentices need to be developing skills and knowledge quickly. By appointing a dedicated member of staff within your organisation to manage this, it can be achieved in a very short time. Apprentices need to be involved and hands on.

Would you recommend investing in apprenticeships to other Gloucestershire businesses?

Apprenticeships are the way to go as they can energise the workforce by bringing in fresh ideas and a will to progress. This does go hand-in-hand with the correct recruitment of apprentices and how they are managed in the workplace.

And finally, could you tell us a bit more about your experience of working with Gloucestershire College as your training provider?

Gloucestershire College has provided a well run apprenticeship provision, ensuring that we are kept updated on our apprentices progress and kept aligned with any new qualification changes. During this difficult time over the last year, the College has worked with us so that seven of our apprentices could still achieve their qualifications.

Recruit an apprentice with Gloucestershire College

Awarded ‘Gloucestershire’s Apprenticeship Training Provider of the Year 2020,’ Gloucestershire College is committed to delivering excellence for our apprentices and employers. Our GC Business Hub team will listen to your needs and requirements and advise on the right training programme for your business. Our next construction and building services apprenticeship programmes start in September 2021. We can help you recruit an apprentice free-of-charge if you don't already have somebody in mind.

Contact: business.hub@gloscol.ac.uk or call: 01452 563400.

Apply to become an apprentice with Gloucestershire College

Open to anyone aged 16 or above, you can apply for your chosen apprenticeship programme through our website and we can help you find a local employer who is looking to recruit new talent. If you are already employed, you can use the apprenticeship scheme to upskill and gain qualifications to boost your career. Explore our programmes and get in touch with our Business Hub team to get started.