The Lloyds Bank Construction Skills Centre Launch
27 June 2016
On 24 June 2016 International Quarter London hosted the launch of the Lloyds Bank Construction Skills Centre, a £1million joint initiative between Lloyds Bank, Lendlease and Newham Council to encourage more young people into a career in construction.
Operating as a hub for the coordination of construction professionals and operatives, the Lloyds Bank Construction Skills Centre based at International Quarter will enable Newham Workplace to increase the delivery of bespoke training for residents of Newham, to support them to gain construction skills in preparation for their first job on site.
The fund will also deliver a programme of educational activity to inspire children and young people to become the next generation of construction workers through apprenticeships and higher education and training pathways.
Sir Robin Wales, Mayor of Newham said: “This incredible initiative will provide a unique centre which will equip young people with the skills necessary to work in a variety of different construction roles, both onsite and in managerial jobs. We want to help our young people build a career in the industry and support them when they want to upskill.
“This centre is also a great example of private and public partnership working which is what makes our Workplace scheme such a success. Workplace’s success is built on close and trusting partnerships with employers. Rapid economic development means the construction sector in Newham is booming and it is essential that we work closely with developers to ensure our residents can make the most of any job opportunities created.”
Ed Thurman, Group Ambassador for London and MD, Financial Institutions, Lloyds Banking Group said: “The Lloyds Bank Construction Skills Centre will have a positive impact on young people in the area, helping to improve education and employability. We launched the £1 million Construction Skills Fund last year to provide focused skills training in the construction sector and drive our commitment to helping Britain, and London, prosper.”
Ian Crockford, Project Director at International Quarter London said;
“We’re thrilled to be working together with Lloyds Bank and Newham Council to deliver such an important initiative. Addressing the construction skills gap is a critical issue and giving local people access to career and training opportunities has never been more important for the construction industry.
“Given some of the largest redevelopment projects in the world are underway in London, the fact Lloyds Bank selected Newham Council to partner with is testament to the scale and ambition of transformation taking place in the borough. The Olympic legacy is working, and it is partnerships such as this that are key to securing lasting prosperity and employment opportunities for East London.”s