Partner Article

Local student building his way up the career ladder

Barratt Home’s support of a local school has lead to career success for one young apprentice.

James Johnson from Southampton, is taking his first steps onto the career ladder thanks to an initiative between Barratt Homes and Southampton City Council.

The employment skills project has seen Barratt Homes Southampton working closely with Redbridge Community School, on a special construction skills based course that has given pupils an insight into the key skills that are required to work in the industry.

Pupils on the course covered all areas of the trade in order to receive their Level 1 construction certificate. Pupils were able to improve their Maths and English skills by putting them into practice in the context of industry skills such as calculating the amount of materials needed and to then write up their reports.

After completing the course, James has gone to secure an apprenticeship with a local carpentry firm, RMS Carpentry, working at Barratt’s Cardinal Park development in Maybush. He also received special recognition from Barratt Group chief executive Mark Clare, while he was visiting the development.

Barratt Homes community liaison manager Anthony Dimmick said that he was delighted that James secured an apprenticeship as a result of the project. “I visited the school on many occasions and James really stood out in the group. He had a positive attitude, was committed to his work, and very reliable – all skills employers look for,” added Anthony

Cllr Matt Tucker, Southampton City Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Leisure Services, said Barratt’s initiative is particularly helpful as it is working directly with schools to help young people gain the skills that they need to build a successful career in construction.

“This is a fine example of how Barratt Homes has worked with Southampton City Council to ensure that local communities and the wider economy can benefit from major developments in the city. I wish James the very best for the future,” added Cllr Matt Tucker.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Barratt Homes .