A NORTH-EAST college has become the first in the country to team up with a training organisation to increase construction apprenticeships.

Redcar and Cleveland College, in Redcar, east Cleveland, is working with CITB-ConstructionSkills to offer apprentices training and support.

The partnership will mean that all college apprentices will take jobs with building and construction companies during their studies.

College principal Gary Groom said: “We have an excellent reputation for delivering first-rate apprenticeship programmes and are thrilled to be the first in the country to enter into a partnership with CITB. We are working together to deliver the highest quality training to our construction apprentices and are working with employers to ensure the courses we deliver exceed the requirements and needs of industry.

“Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to learn sought-after skills, gain qualifications and earn a wage and this collaboration ensures consistency across the learning process.”

Jeremy Wright, CITB area delivery manager, said: “A guaranteed quality of training for all construction apprentices means a more consistent learning experience and ensures we’re producing talented apprentices for the future.”