Partnership helps lay career foundations

A North East college and construction business are laying the foundations for future careers after a recruitment drive resulted in 12 new apprenticeships.

Derwentside College partnered with Hewitson Limited after the company identified a need to recruit eight groundworker apprentices to support its continued growth.

The college designed and managed a bespoke recruitment campaign, promoting the vacancies, attracting candidates and coordinating a dedicated recruitment day for aspiring groundworkers from across the region.

However, the quality of applicants prompted Hewitson to increase the number of positions available by 50 per cent, creating four additional opportunities.

All 12 recruits will now work towards a Level 2 Groundworker Apprenticeship, while gaining practical experience with the company.

Hewitson has already provided preparatory training and development activities to help the apprentices transition into the workplace and prepare for their programmes.

Officials say the partnership demonstrates how closer collaboration between employers and education providers can help address skills shortages while creating career opportunities for local young people.

They add the initiative also supports Hewitson’s future talent pipeline at a time when skilled workers remain in strong demand across the construction sector.

Paul Mathison, director of construction at Hewitson Limited, said: “Supporting young people into the construction industry is incredibly important to us.  

“We want to give individuals the opportunity to build rewarding careers, develop valuable skills and realise their potential.  

“The recruitment process delivered by Derwentside College introduced us to some outstanding candidates, and we’re looking forward to supporting them throughout their apprenticeship journey and beyond.”

Nicola Raine, assistant principal – business development and technical education at Derwentside College, added: “We’re proud to have led the recruitment process on behalf of Hewitson Limited and to have connected 12 talented young people with career opportunities in a sector where skills are in high demand.  

“This partnership demonstrates the positive impact that employers and colleges can achieve together.”

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