Why experiences matter
Of course, we’d all love the best talent to come into construction, but fundamentally we’re committed to giving the best support, experience and advice that can help young people aspire to be the best they can be. Whilst we’re committed to designing and constructing the best facilities, it is the work we do beyond the build that is just as vital.
Supporting educational attainment is just one of those social value pillars embedded within our business. In the last year alone, we delivered 25 deep dive career activities and supported 1,200 virtual work experience placements across the East of England.
For years the construction industry has been saying it has a brand problem, and our recent UK survey of Generation Z unfortunately shows that to still be true, with less than one third considering a career in construction.
A recent CITB report backs that up, showing that the industry only has a 28% conversion rate of students going from construction courses to construction careers.
Many in the Gen Z report cite reasons for rejection as perception beliefs that the industry is dangerous, dirty and not well-paid.
Despite the Are we Gen Z ready report only publishing this year, it only served to reinforce the understanding that Social Value Manager Helen Clements has had, in that the importance of getting in early to form meaningful education partnerships is crucial.
The Gen Z survey also showed that 57% of women rejected the industry. Helen's work experience programme, which targets a 50/50 gender split, is now helping to achieve gender parity in apprenticeship applications and employment across the East.