PfP Thrive launches first apprenticeship cohort

PfP Thrive, part of Places for People, has welcomed its first cohort of apprentices at a new state-of-the-art learning centre in Derby.

The inaugural intake begins a comprehensive programme covering essential housing and construction qualifications. 

Students come from a wide range of ages, experience and backgrounds, reflecting PfP Thrive’s commitment to inclusivity and workforce development.

PfP Thrive delivers high-quality, accredited training designed to nurture new talent and upskill existing workers, tackling challenges such as the UK’s 250,000-worker shortfall and falling youth engagement in the sector. 

Its courses are supported by partnerships with 40 housing providers and education organisations including The Retrofit Academy, City & Guilds, CITB, CIH and Study Academy.

Tom Arey, director of PfP Thrive, said: “The numbers are increasingly concerning – the UK construction sector is losing people faster than we can replace them, while fewer young people are coming in. 

“We can’t retrofit the homes we have, or build the homes we need, without these vital skills.

“That’s why we’re proud to be welcoming our first cohort of learners – individuals who are ready to upskill at pace and play a vital role in shaping the future of UK housing.”

The Derby centre has been praised by National Housing Federation chief executive Kate Henderson as “a high-tech learning environment designed to meet the needs of every learner”. 

PfP Thrive also provides professional development opportunities, from compliance and apprenticeships to leadership programmes, creating a robust talent pipeline for the industry.

Operating from 20 sites nationwide, PfP Thrive aims to train over 100 apprentices in its first year.

Tom added: “The only way to solve the skills shortage is through genuine cross-industry collaboration – and that’s exactly what we’ve built with these partnerships. 

“We look forward to working with even more organisations to shift the dial on this crisis.

“By working together, we can equip both the existing and future housing workforce with the skills, knowledge and behaviours the sector needs to thrive. 

“This is about securing the future of our sector, our workforce and, ultimately, the homes we build and maintain.”

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