West of England housing association Curo is working with local partners at Bath College and The University of Bath to helping to boost local skills in construction through employment and training opportunities.
Construction is one of many industries crucial to the UK economy that have been affected by recent labour shortages. Construction now has the second-worst workforce shortage in the country. Curo and its partners are focused on addressing this challenge through supporting local people into high-skilled jobs and employment.
Work Wise, Curo’s employability service, links local people with training & employment opportunities – such as those at Curo’s flagship development, Mulberry Park. The development has supported 32 apprenticeships, 164 new jobs with local training and 399 work placements in the local community since outline planning permission for the site was granted in 2015.
Students from the University of Bath’s Civil Engineering courses and Bath College’s Construction programme have visited Mulberry Park over the last few months to learn more about construction and design. The visit provided students with valuable insights into a live construction site, showcasing modern building methods and innovative design principles that define Mulberry Park’s development.
During their tour, the students observed the progression of Phase 2 at Mulberry Park, which builds upon the scheme’s existing amenities, including a new primary school and community centre. Upcoming plans for Phase 2 include the addition of shops and other facilities, further improving the neighbourhood.
Alan Mapston, Senior Site Manager at Mulberry Park, commented, “It’s been fantastic to welcome Bath College and the University back for another visit. Seeing their enthusiasm for construction and architecture in action is always inspiring, and it’s rewarding to share our journey as Mulberry Park continues to grow. We’re proud to support future professionals in their learning and look forward to seeing their contributions to the industry.”
Gavin Knowles, Director of Studies, Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, University of Bath, added, “We are always looking for interesting Civil Engineering projects in the local area and the Curo team at Mulberry Park have been so accommodating in showing our students around the site with so much enthusiasm. A live construction site is such a valuable teaching tool and shows our future Engineers how building designs go together both physically and logistically. We have really valued this continued partnership.”
Karen Simmons, Employability and Engagement Officer at Bath College, said, “Visiting a live site and talking to experienced people already working in construction really helps to bring the learning to life and inspire our students on their future career journeys. It’s a valuable asset to our courses and we are very grateful to be working with Curo.”
