The programme of support is likely to include work experience opportunities, site visits, and curriculum enrichment particularly in science, engineering, technology and maths. It will also introduce art students to architecture.
Morgan Sindall is currently the lead contractor for the replacement of the wing at Sawston Village College that was destroyed by fire.
Bob Ensch, area director at Morgan Sindall, said: “Morgan Sindall has a proven track record of working with education facilities, so we were drawn to the idea of becoming an employer champion with one of the CAP schools. Sawston is just down the road from our Cambridge office and, of course, we’re working very closely with them already, so it’s a perfect fit.
“Like many sectors, construction is heading towards a skills shortage. It’s critically important that we demonstrate to students the range of opportunities available in our industry. Many of these, with their highly technical aspects, will appeal to young people and it is very important that we nurture talent for the future.
“Morgan Sindall is committed to creating a sustainable, skilled workforce. We want to play our part in supporting the next generation of future talent and making sure they have the skills needed to be successful in securing employment.”
Jonathan Russell, deputy head at Sawston Village College, said: “Partnerships with businesses are extremely important to our school. We want to encourage our students to look forward and to consider where their education can take them. Working with employers gives our students the chance to learn about the opportunities out there for them and the skills they’ll need to succeed.”
The partnership was announced at the CAP conference, “Shaping the Future Workforce”, attended by members of the Cambridge business community and leaders from secondary schools and colleges across the region on December 5th. The conference built on events held at Swavesey in 2012, where employers had raised concerns. The conference set out what CAP has done in response to these concerns and what else is planned. Recruiting Employer Champions, like Morgan Sindall, is a key plank in the strategy.
“Too many young people are missing out on opportunities while businesses still struggle to recruit skilled and qualified people. By bringing schools and businesses closer together, we believe we can create opportunities for young people and give Cambridge area companies access to a workforce with the skills and talents they need,” said Anne Bailey, CAP Employer Links Coordinator.
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