Bricklaying students looking to a future career in construction have been showing off their skills ahead of National Apprenticeship Week.

Persimmon Homes South East is working to promote careers in construction and link with colleges to support students’ learning. 

Craig West, Construction Director for Persimmon Homes South East, visited Canterbury College to donate six pallets of bricks from a completed site ensuring that the materials are recycled and help future generations. 

During his visit he met learners and saw the work they do to build the foundations for their future careers while also discussing partnerships with Persimmon. 

The visit came ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from February 10 to February 16, and Craig was able to offer advice on the next steps for those looking to do an apprenticeship once they have completed their Level 2 Diploma in bricklaying and opportunities for those studying plumbing and carpentry at the Kent college. 

Craig said: “At Persimmon we are passionate about inspiring the next generation of construction workers and ensuring they have the right skills to help us build the homes we need here in the South East. 

“By working with colleges and supplying materials that are used in practical lessons, we can support that learning and give students that vital hands-on experience. 

“Seeing the skills showcased here, it is clear these students have successful careers ahead of them and it would be a pleasure to see some of them working on our developments in years to come.” 

Phillip Wood, Programme Director for Bricklaying at Canterbury College, said: “We look forward to forging a meaningful and mutually beneficial partnership with Persimmon moving forward, and thank them for their generous donation of resources.  

“This generosity not only encompasses the EKC values of sustainability and community involvement, but provides students with high quality materials that will be reused for future cohorts of students, for the foreseeable.”