Barratt David Wilson Homes has opened applications to its apprenticeship scheme, which will provide career opportunities for the next generation of tradespeople in the South West. The company is currently building two, three, four and five bedroom properties at a number of developments across the region including South Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Bricklaying, carpentry and joinery apprenticeships are available which offer a mix of hands-on training working alongside experienced trade specialists.

The level 2 trade apprenticeship will take 18 months to complete and will allow apprentices to develop skills in their chosen construction trade, before they put their newfound knowledge to the test and enter full-time employment in their chosen field.

Youngsters have until Friday 18 March to apply, and successful applicants are expected to join the company in the summer.

Jack Manning (18) is a carpentry apprentice who joined Barratt David Wilson’s scheme 18months ago. He’d always wanted to be a carpenter and researched different apprenticeships when he was due to leave school and thought the company’s Intermediate Trade Apprenticeship would be the best one for him. He’s doing on-the-job training at the Moorland Gate and Nerrols Grange developments in Taunton and attends college one week every three months to support his learning. He’s due to complete his apprenticeship in April. Commenting, he said: “I’ve really enjoyed the experience – the team here have been really friendly and supportive and I hope to go on to do an Advanced Trade Apprenticeship with Barratt David Wilson to achieve my NVQ Level 3.â€�

Martyn Brooks, construction manager at Barratt David Wilson South West, said: “As the industry continues to face ongoing labour shortages, we recognise the valuable role apprentices play in shaping the future of construction. Our bricklaying, carpentry and joinery apprenticeships offer an exciting opportunity to glean valuable experience at our Barratt David Wilson developments in the South West and learn how houses are built quite literally from the ground upwards.

“The courses are open to anyone looking to join the industry, from school leavers to individuals seeking a career change. We’re looking forward to welcoming the next generation of talent to our workforce and hope the region’s youngsters apply in strong numbers.�