Detailed Notes on Gold Group Apprenticeship Program

Gold Group: A Case Study in Construction Apprenticeships

Gold Group, a construction company founded by a former apprentice named Steve, exemplifies a strong commitment to apprenticeship programs. Based in rural Lincolnshire, the company has garnered recognition, including two Princess Royal Awards, for its dedication to nurturing young talent within the construction industry.

Facing challenges such as a widening skills gap due to an aging workforce and the difficulties posed by its rural location, Gold Group has implemented several strategies to attract and retain apprentices. The company actively participates in careers fairs at local schools and maintains a robust relationship with Lincoln College, offering work experience opportunities for students. Founder Steve personally visits schools and colleges to promote construction careers, emphasizing the diverse roles available beyond traditional trades.

Gold Group's commitment extends beyond recruitment. The company focuses on retaining apprentices by providing opportunities for career progression. For instance, an apprentice from 2020 has advanced to a senior contract manager role, pursuing a Level 7 qualification. The company also maximizes its apprenticeship levy, funding apprenticeships across various departments and supporting both new recruits and existing employees in upskilling programs.

Despite these successes, Gold Group acknowledges barriers to attracting young people to construction. Generational differences between older tradespeople and younger apprentices can create integration challenges. To mitigate this, Gold Group pairs apprentices with skilled older tradesmen to facilitate knowledge transfer and mutual learning, encouraging the exchange of traditional skills and new technologies.

The company advocates for greater involvement from the education system in promoting construction careers. By actively engaging with schools and showcasing the variety of roles within construction, Gold Group aims to dispel misconceptions and attract a diverse range of candidates, including women. Showcasing women in various roles and ensuring inclusive recruitment messaging, Gold Group works to shift perceptions.

With the government's focus on increasing the number of new homes, Gold Group recognizes the critical role of apprenticeships in meeting this target. The company measures the success of its apprenticeship schemes through retention rates and the progression of apprentices into leadership roles. With a 95% retention rate, Gold Group is committed to creating future leaders within the construction industry and is open to including learner voices in reports to further enhance its apprenticeship program.