Catherine McKinnell MP has met with the next generation of construction workers learning their trade at Persimmon’s training academy at Newcastle College.

The Newcastle North MP met with apprentice bricklayers, joiners and roofers at the Rye Hill Campus in Newcastle City Centre.

Persimmon works with individual schools and colleges to nurture apprentices at the start of their career and has a dedicated training academy at Newcastle College, which was launched in 2024.

The academy aims to ensure the North East has the skilled workforce it needs and focuses on bricklaying, joinery and roofing.

Catherine McKinnell MP said: “I am so pleased that Persimmon Homes are delivering excellent programmes and teaching at their Skills Academy at Newcastle College, shaping young people’s futures and giving them a great chance to develop their career.”

“In March I met Skye, a brilliant apprentice joiner, to talk about her success story and the support Persimmon has provided, enabling her to thrive. It’s so encouraging that Persimmon continue to help so many more young people, like Skye, to thrive and develop critical skills to set them up for life.”

Jon Ridley, Principal of Newcastle College, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Catherine to campus to see firsthand the Persimmon Skills Academy at Newcastle College. The Skills Academy is a place where individuals develop knowledge, skills and professional behaviours that make them ready to work.

“The Academy is an example of education and industry working together with a shared purpose. Our students are developing their talent in industry-standard facilities, supported by employers who are investing in the future workforce. That benefits our learners, businesses and the wider North East.”

Persimmon Regional Apprentice Manager, Michael Johnson said: “We’re proud to be working with Newcastle College to nurture the next generation of workers with the academy providing an excellent space for apprentices to develop their skills and learn their craft.”