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Constructing Futures Hosts Awareness-raising Event

21 July 2006

Constructing Futures, the local construction skills agency created to meet the needs of local employers, is hosting an event to raise awareness of the acute shortage of Apprenticeships within the Construction Industry. The agency, which is managed by City College Brighton and Hove, is aiming to secure sufficient work placements for September 2006. The event, on Wednesday 26th July from 6.30 to 8.30pm at Alias Seattle Hotel, Brighton Marina, will provide an opportunity for industry representatives to meet Phil Culverwell, City College's newly appointed Director of Construction. Mr. Culverwell will explain the revitalised strategy for construction training which is now being implemented. Information will be presented regarding apprenticeships, the process involved, available grants and support, plus what an employer can expect if they take on an apprentice. Companies will be asked to register their commitment to Work Based Learning across the region.

By the construction industry's very nature, it is understood that many employers find it hard to commit to a programme for 2 years minimum because they do not always know if they will have sustained work to support an apprentice. New ways of supporting employers and breaking down some of the perceived barriers are being examined. Constructing Futures and City College will be looking at innovative models to support employers, for example the proposal that employers may be able to 'share' apprentices. There is an acute shortage of Work Based Learning places within the construction industry in Sussex. Constructing Futures is seeking to find places for apprentices in Brickwork, Carpentry & Joinery, Plumbing and Electrical Installation. Phil Culverwell says:

'With an ageing work population, it's essential that younger people are recruited and trained in this sector to avoid a serious economic impact on the city. It's also imperative that our local community is supported by creating a skilled workforce from those living in the area without being reliant on importing skilled labour into the county. Brighton already has a higher than average percentage of the population with low skills or without qualifications and we're determined to help turn that situation around.'

Guests at the event will be offered a complimentary drink upon arrival and there will be a buffet and a free prize draw. First prize is a day at Brighton Races with tickets to the premier enclosure and a meal for two at the exclusive Silks Restaurant.

Any employers who believe that they may be able to support the Constructing Futures initiative should contact 01273 667765 to receive more information and an invitation to the event.

For press information, please call Brian Bell, Marketing Communications Officer, on 01273 667788 Ext. 488 or email bb1@ccb.ac.uk

About City College Brighton and Hove: Founded over 100 years ago, City College Brighton and Hove has become an international centre of excellence. Every year over 2,000 full-time and 13,000 part time students as well as many international and European students choose City College as their education provider. The College provides training to over 2,000 businesses and has a 'City Business Skills' department which focuses on employers' needs. Offering over 650 courses from basic level to pre-University level, City College is working with its partners to develop the workforce of the future.