A new Newcastle Training Hub at The Rise development in Scotswood will develop the next generation of housebuilding in the North East
NHBC has unveiled its latest Training Hub at Keepmoat’s The Rise development in Scotswood, to support the next generation of skilled housebuilding in the North East.
With an initial focus on bricklaying, the purpose-built facility will train more than 100 apprentices per year, providing a realistic working environment adjacent to the Scotswood regeneration site.
The NHBC Training Hub has been built in partnership with Keepmoat, New Tyne West Development Company (NTWDC), Newcastle City Council and North of Tyne Combined Authority.
Addressing the skills shortage and challenges of an ageing workforce
This Hub is the second dedicated training facility built by NHBC – the first was launched in Tamworth in 2021 – and forms part of its ongoing commitment to support the next generation of house builders, equipping them with the skills to build high quality new homes.
The scheme will train apprentices all year round with numerous cohort intakes throughout the year.
Speaking at the opening, NHBC commercial director, David Campbell said: “It’s vital we attract more young people into house building to help address skills shortages and the challenge of an ageing workforce.
“Our Training Hubs provide a realistic work environment where we can deliver an accelerated, front loaded, block release, homebuilding focused, bricklaying apprenticeship. Open to all house builders and their supply chain in the area, we look forward to doing our bit in tackling the skills shortage and equipping apprentices with the skills to build high quality new homes.”
Generating skills and social value in the local area
The work is also part of Keepmoat’s ongoing commitment to combat the skills shortage in the area, whilst creating social value and a sustainable community in partnership with NHBC, NTWDC and Newcastle City Council, by generating opportunities in upskilling and employment close to The Rise.
Ian Worgan, regional managing director at Keepmoat, said: “At Keepmoat we prioritise work experience and apprenticeships by committing to helping young people in the areas we develop, aiming to provide them with skills, knowledge and opportunities to succeed in long-term employment in housebuilding.
“We’re really proud to work in partnership with NHBC to deliver this incredible hands-on course, which will play an integral part in resolving the current shortfall in experienced bricklayers, as well the delivery of high quality, affordable homes in the future.”
The Rise development is part of wider efforts to regenerate housebuilding in the North East
Cabinet member for a Resilient City, Cllr Alex Hay, who has responsibility for skills and training, said: “This new skills centre sounds great. It couldn’t be better placed right next to The Rise, giving local people access to quality training.
“The Rise is one of the city’s most important developments. It’s providing much-needed homes for a growing city but also giving residents the chance to learn valuable construction skills that will not just launch their careers but give them the opportunity to earn a decent wage and spend it locally which is good for the local economy – not to mention tackle the national skills shortage.
“I’d like to thank NHBC for choosing Newcastle for their new centre. I wish all those who pass through its doors all the best in their careers.”
The Rise development, when complete, will comprise of around 1,800 new homes with its own heating system and a neighbourhood centre, including community, retail and health provision space.
