‘Unique’ training scheme launches in Leeds

A skills initiative has launched to tackle unemployment while helping meet growing demand for energy-efficient housing upgrades.

The Real Green Jobs Accelerator Scheme has begun in Leeds, offering a first-of-its-kind training programme focused on housing retrofit and external wall insulation (EWI). 

Led by EN:Procure, the procurement arm of social housing consortium Efficiency North, the scheme is supported by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and delivered in partnership with DWP Job Centre Plus.

The six-week course is hosted by sustainable regeneration specialist Equans at a live retrofit project, with training delivered by Leeds College of Building. 

An initial cohort of eight learners will gain practical and technical skills, with all trainees guaranteed a job interview for entry-level roles on Leeds City Council’s three-year external wall insulation contract.

Aaron Rees is part of the first cohort that started on the programme this week. 

He said: “I’m doing this training to try and get a job out of it. 

“The course gives you good range of skills and experience that you can take into multiple jobs. 

“It’s nice that you get work experience and then training at college alongside it.” 

Almost 50 learners are expected to benefit overall, helping address a significant green skills shortage as the region looks to upgrade hundreds of thousands of homes and build a future-ready workforce.

Simeon Perry, head of ESG at EN:Procure, added: “There is huge demand for these skills across the region as we work towards the UK target to reach EPC C in all social and private rented homes by 2030. 

“We have led this industry partnership in response to that demand by creating a programme that not only looks to solve the skills gap but also provides job security for local people who are trained to deliver essential services.

“We’ve worked hard with our partners to create a scheme truly unique to the region that offers both classroom learning and practical hands-on experience. 

“The course will give participants the required skills to go onto direct employment in EWI or progress to further education such as a National Vocational Qualification in EWI.” 

Nikki Davis, chief executive and principal of Leeds College of Building and a member of the Government’s Construction Skills Mission Board, added: “This scheme is yet another example of how the region benefits when we all work together, the support from all parties has been essential.  

“What started as an idea that our fantastic lecturer Mark Speight had has now become a comprehensive training programme. 

“Mark is also delivering both classroom learning and workshop training on our side, so it’s a real full circle moment.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →