Last week saw the first ever Newcastle Construction Week – during which a range of events took place across Newcastle and Gateshead aimed at young people between 18 and 24.

These events gave youngsters the chance to try a number of practical workshops, take part in site visits to key employers and attend talks.

 The goal of Newcastle Construction Week was to give youngsters an insight into what the construction industry can offer in terms of employment and training opportunities.

Free workshops were held on dry lining, roof slating and tiling, in addition to sessions on architecture, engineering and management.

Several local businesses and partners contributed to the programme, including Newcastle University, Northumbria University, Gateshead College, Newcastle Science Central, PlanBee, Keir, Esh Build, NE1 and Newcastle College.

An event at Newcastle’s City Library gave guests – such as the Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah and Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for inclusive growth Ged Bell – the chance to see the impact of Newcastle Construction Week.

photo courtesy of DaMongMan, from Flickr Creative Commons
Newcastle Construction Week included sessions on roof slating and tiling (photo courtesy of DaMongMan, from Flickr Creative Commons)

Chi Onwurah said, “It was great to visit this event today as part of Newcastle Construction Week and support our young people in exploring opportunities within the construction industry.”

“I believe it’s absolutely vital that we retain young talent in our region and open up avenues and opportunities in an engaging way, ensuring that this talent benefits Newcastle and the wider north east, and helps our economy grow through this key sector.”

Cllr Bell, who is also a board member for Newcastle Science Central, said, “Construction is a dynamic and rewarding industry in which to work, with so many varied job roles and opportunities available here in the north east.”

“We have a thriving construction industry in our region and businesses need a skilled workforce, with the right training to take up a range of jobs.”

“Giving our young people a taste of what the industry can offer benefits them and the businesses in which they can further their careers. The region’s economy benefits too from a thriving construction sector.”

For more information on employment and training opportunities, please visit skillshub@newcastle.gov.uk.

(The featured image shows Cllr Ged Bell and Chi Onwurah MP with students from Newcastle College.)


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