With plans to develop the town centre in the pipeline, Eastbourne will benefit from new business investment. But more imminently, during construction a huge number of jobs will be created, especially in the building industry, and now is the time for businesses to explore the possibility of offering apprenticeships.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet spokesperson for Economy, Tourism and Environment, Councillor David Elkin, says, “There is a great shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry and it is important that local companies gear up for the opportunities that could come their way from the town centre and other construction projects”
Taking on an apprentice could pay off for construction companies in five years’ time. Construction trade skills such as carpentry, plumbing, plastering, masonry and electrical installation will all be in high demand once the town regeneration begins. Taking on an apprentice may help contracting companies who might otherwise have difficulty finding enough experienced workers locally.
Colleges and school-leavers should be aware of the possible apprenticeship opportunities which could be coming up in the near future and take full advantage of them. There are reportedly nearly 200,000 women working in construction, so it’s not the men-only industry that it might once have been.
To find out more about these opportunities, visit the Sussex Downs College website. The Construction Industry Training Board has a wealth of information about training and apprenticeships and you can even apply online.
