(L - R): David Campbell, commercial director at NHBC and Tim Beale, CEO at Keepmoat.

Newcastle training hub opens to support the next generation of local house builders

New home warranty and insurance provider NHBC has unveiled its latest Training Hub at Keepmoat’s The Rise development in Scotswood, to support the next generation of skilled house builders in the North East.

Training more than 100 apprentices per year, with an initial focus on bricklaying, the purpose-built facility will immerse apprentices in a realistic working environment adjacent to the Scotswood regeneration site.

The NHBC Training Hub has been built in partnership with Keepmoat, New Tyne West Development Company (NTWDC), Newcastle City Council and North of Tyne Combined Authority. It was officially opened yesterday (Thursday December 1).

This Hub is the second dedicated training facility built by NHBC, with the first being launched in Tamworth in 2021. The scheme will train apprentices all year round with numerous cohort intakes throughout the year.

Speaking at the opening, NHBC commercial director, David Campbell, commented: “It’s vital we attract more young people into house building to help address skills shortages and the challenge of an ageing workforce.

“Our Training Hubs provide a realistic work environment where we can deliver an accelerated, front loaded, block release, homebuilding focused, bricklaying apprenticeship.

“Open to all house builders and their supply chain in the area, we look forward to doing our bit in tackling the skills shortage and equipping apprentices with the skills to build high quality new homes.”

The work is also part of Keepmoat’s ongoing commitment to combat the skills shortage in the area, whilst creating social value and a sustainable community in partnership with NHBC, NTWDC and Newcastle City Council, by generating opportunities in upskilling and employment close to The Rise.

Ian Worgan, regional managing director at Keepmoat, added: “We’re extremely delighted to have the first apprentices starting their on-site experience at The Training Hub, and are excited to follow their journey to becoming the new generation of housebuilders.

“It’s so rewarding to be able to help kick-start young people’s careers in the construction industry, especially as we have witnessed a significant shortage in skilled labour in recent years, which makes this apprentice programme even more important.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily