Wates, the contractor currently carrying out the £4.6m refurbishment and extension of the University’s Chapman Building, is offering a scheme with work-based training opportunities in production and commercial roles within the company.
Representatives from Wates Group’s Construction and Living Space business units attended a careers fair on campus, where undergraduates of the university’s School of the Built Environment could find out more about the programme and how to register.
The Wates Trainee Programme, offered to 40 undergraduates in a variety of locations, opened for applications on 1 November, with schemes starting in 2012. The programme will offer successful applicants the opportunity to complete on-the-job training, whilst completing Wates’ Insight and Support education development programme.
John Shannon, Business Unit Director for Wates Construction in the North West, said: “Recent figures have shown that the number of 16-24 year olds currently unemployed in the UK is almost at 1 million*. Engaging with higher education institutions, to offer vocational training opportunities, is a valuable means to enhancing their employability.
“It is our undoubted responsibility to nurture the talent of the industry’s future workforce. Furthermore, giving undergraduates the forum to network with industry professionals can go a long way in opening doors for future career prospects.”
Claire MacLean, Head of Employability, Associate Director for Student Life at the University of Salford said: ‘’Access to relevant work experience opportunities is critical to the success of our graduates. The University of Salford is committed to making sure that 100% of our students undertake work experience whilst studying. To achieve this, ensuring that our business partners and suppliers work with us in this way, to help nurture talent and provide opportunities, is vital.”
A School of the Built Environment student who attended the event said: ‘’The fair gave me exposure to a variety of companies and it was useful to meet company personnel face to face.’’
Wates Construction began work on University of Salford’s £4.6m refurbishment and extension of its Chapman Building in August 2011. This project is the first phase of the University’s Campus Plan which will include an upgraded lecture theatre, café breakout space, additional learning areas as well as improving the external appearance of the building.
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