Persimmon Homes has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with Carlisle College, cementing a positive legacy across Cumbria and seeing many apprentices gain their full qualifications.
 
Currently, the national housebuilder has nine apprentices at the college studying both Bricklaying and Joinery, providing an important mix of on-site and classroom learning.
 
Joinery students spend one week out of every four at college, while bricklaying students spend one week out of every five, the remainder of time spent on live building sites gaining real-life experience.
 
Apprentices are supported by Persimmon's Regional Apprentice Manager and when on-site are assigned a dedicated mentor who oversees their development.
 
The real-life experience apprentices gain out on-site is key to their development and when coupled with the skills they learn in the classroom at Carlisle College provides a strong platform from which to enter their chosen industry.
 
Ian Macdonald, Apprentice Master at Persimmon Homes Lancashire, said: “At Persimmon, creating opportunities for the next generation through our apprenticeship programme is a priority for us. We operate locally and are committed to working closely with Carlisle College to encourage young people to pursue a career in the construction industry, supporting them every step of the way.
 
“The construction industry offers a wide range of exciting career paths, meaning there is something to suit everyone. Being able to access both real-life and classroom learning sets a strong foundation for future success, and I would encourage any young person to consider a career in the construction industry.”
 
Sarah McGrath, Principal of Carlisle College said "We really value the partnership we have with Persimmon Homes.  It is great for us to work with an employer who really understands the importance of high quality training and education and who is prepared to invest in their future workforce.  The support they provide to us as a college and to all their apprentices is fantastic.  We look forward to continue working with the for many years to come."