A new skills academy which provides residents with the chance to undergo training and gain qualifications in construction was officially opened in New Addington today.
The academy has launched as part of the new multi-million pound New Addington leisure and community centre development, and will provide training and qualifications for local people interested in working in construction.
The council has partnered with Willmott Dixon, builder of the new leisure centre, MRG Services, Carshalton College and Croydon Council’s jobs brokerage service Croydon Works, to provide the training hub.
Candidates will learn Level 1 Construction Operations, practical skills training, CSCS training, Level 1 Health and Safety at Work, and employability skills.
After their training, the newly qualified candidates will be supported by Croydon Works to apply for work placements with Willmott Dixon, supply chain partners or other construction jobs advertised by the employment service.
The academy building – which today had its ribbon cut during a ceremony attended by council leader Councillor Tony Newman, local ward councillors and staff from Willmott Dixon – will operate until the building of the leisure and community centre is complete in autumn 2018.
Located next to the Octagon building on Central Parade, the first cohort of students will enter the academy to start their training in April.
Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council
“I’m delighted to have opened the academy. The new leisure and community centre will be a top-of-the-range facility that will enhance local lives. I’m pleased that, from next month, residents will be able to benefit from its construction through the academy’s courses.”
Councillor Manju Shahul-Hameed, cabinet member for economy and jobs
“The academy will provide a fantastic opportunity for local people not only to gain the necessary qualifications for a career in construction, but also to be supported into construction jobs once qualified. I hope local residents take advantage of this fantastic new academy on their doorstep.”
Sarah Fraser, head of Willmott Dixon Foundation, commented: “At Willmott Dixon we have committed to transforming 10,000 young people’s life chances by 2020. This is our first academy and we are very excited about the opportunities this will provide for young people of Croydon to gain skills and take a step forward into the industry. This will also pave the way for academies on future projects.”
For more information about the course call 020 8604 7471 or email info@croydonworks.co.uk
