The role of apprentices are a crucial part of the 12 Sites joint venture (JV) partnership with Havering Council and Wates.
The JV board have built targets into their social value programmes to make sure that young people are included in the broader benefits from the regeneration schemes in Havering.
James and Kevin are two apprentices who live in Havering and were taken on by Southeastern Carpentry (SEC) to work on the Park Rise retirement village development in Hornchurch.
In total, 22 apprentices gained 1416 weeks working on the site (combined).
James, aged 19, lives in Harold Hill and studied at Drapers Academy, before going to New City College in Rainham to study a multi-trade course which included bricklaying, plastering and carpentry.
He worked on the Park Rise scheme at the very beginning as well as at the end of the construction; fitting skirting boards and installing doors.
He is due to finish his studies in November this year.
Kevin, aged 20, lives in Elm Park and studied at St Edward’s School before also attending New City College specialising in carpentry and joinery.
He is due to finish his studies in March this year.
Kevin said of his experience:
“I live close by and have had the opportunity to see the community flourish over the past year.
“The quality of the build is really good and I learnt so much on site.”
James drives past the Park Rise development on his way to college and added;
“I spent a lot of time on that site learning my trade and it’s great to see how the residents have now established their community.”
Both are still working for SEC on sites across London, whilst on day release from college, and both now want to specialise in careers in carpentry.
Marius, their manager at SEC said:
“We are proud of our people.
“Having Apprentices within the business is a great way for individuals to develop and provides them with a future within the trade.
“We have expanded our workforce to have experienced and qualified people at every level, strengthening the model of our business.
“Our Apprenticeship schemes, graduate programmes and senior management development all contribute to producing a first-class team.”