Mace Group, working alongside Ernest & Young Foundation, created a unique programme focusing on getting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds ready for work. There are a number of employability programmes in construction, however none focus on providing pre-employment training focusing on the leadership, resilience and soft skills needed to succeed in the construction industry. While construction companies are increasing working with people from disadvantaged backgrounds, they are not preparing them for a working environment leading to low retention rates.
10 young people were recruited onto the ‘Our Future’ programme, and this group included individuals from the following backgrounds: 50% were ethnically diverse; 100% received free meals whist at school; 80% have previously been bullied; 55% felt their background would be some kind of barrier to them being successful, and 66% said anxiety or a lack of confidence would prevent them achieving their career aspirations.
The programme included three weeks’ delivery over six months, and successfully increased participants’ awareness of employment opportunities in the construction industry through participating in an accredited employability programme. All students completed a Level 2 CMI Leadership qualification.
Evaluation revealed that 100% students agreed that the careers and employment support they received helped them get a job after education. All students reported an increase in core employment skills such as problem solving skills, communication skills and team work. This programme has been replicated on other projects.
To find out more, click the link below.
Entry submitted by Mace.
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