Students across Gloucestershire receiving their A-Level results are being urged to consider an apprenticeship in construction by Barratt Developments.

Apprentices are leading the way in construction, with over 40 per cent more people starting apprenticeships in the first quarter of 2021/22 than in the same period in 2020/21, which is up again from pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Barratt Developments is committed to developing the next generation of tradespeople, site managers and industry leaders across its developments in the South West.

Across the South West, Barratt Developments offers up to 20 apprenticeships every year, in trades including carpentry, bricklaying and joinery. Since 2019, 13 apprentices have successfully completed their apprenticeship, with seven staying on to further develop their career prospects, by pursuing their Level 3 NVQ in carpentry.

Kevin White, head of construction at Barratt Homes Bristol, said: "Construction-based apprenticeships offer opportunities for young adults who either have their heart set on working in the trade or who have a general interest in housebuilding and may not have considered an apprenticeship before.

"Our scheme is tailored around supporting people to learn the skills, knowledge and experience to become the next generation of talent, which is essential for the UK to build its way out of the housing crisis."

Barratt Homes Bristol will open applications to its apprenticeship scheme early in 2023. Bricklaying, carpentry and joinery apprenticeships offer a mix of hands-on training and working alongside experienced trade specialists.

A Level 2 trade apprenticeship takes 18 months to complete. It allows 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.

Aaron Witts, 19, is one young apprentice on Barratt Developments' scheme, combining on-the-job training at Barratt Homes' Great Oldbury development, Stroud, with NVQ Level 2 Bricklaying.

Aaron, who's due to finish the course in February 2023, said: "I always wanted to learn a trade that brings out my creativity and develop new skills. Barratt Developments stood out to me, and the rest is history.

"This apprenticeship has taught me much - not just about bricklaying, but about the wider construction industry and life skills too, whilst earning at the same time. Barratt Homes has given me the support and mentoring I need to thrive and I've made many friends along the way."

Andrea Pilgrim, sales director for Barratt Homes Bristol, said: "Anyone who's undecided about their next steps after picking up their A-Level results should consider the apprenticeship route rather than a traditional undergraduate programme. Apprentices have a valuable role in shaping the future of construction, and the industry is crying out for fresh, new talent now more than ever.

"There are plenty of options available to youngsters and an apprenticeship route could be the best choice they ever made."

School leavers who would like to find out more about the early careers available at Barratt Developments plc should visit www.barrattcareers.co.uk