The new recruits are learning with a “more hands-on approach” than the traditional classroom way

Six young people from Rotherham have taken their first step on the construction career ladder after beginning apprenticeships with Equans, as part of the sustainable regeneration specialist's repairs and maintenance partnership with Rotherham Council.

The new recruits – who include joinery, electrical and plumbing apprentices - will support residents of social housing in the borough, and, over the coming years, will gain hands-on practical experience alongside experienced professionals while developing their technical knowledge by studying towards industry-recognised qualifications at college.

(L-R) Equans project director, Neil Wright, with apprentices Carter, Shae, Liam, Gracie, Stephen, Konner, and Alex, and Rotherham Council head of housing property services, Lynsey Stephenson | Shaun Flannery Photography Ltd

placeholder image — (L-R) Equans project director, Neil Wright, with apprentices Carter, Shae, Liam, Gracie, Stephen, Konner, and Alex, and Rotherham Council head of housing property services, Lynsey Stephenson | Shaun Flannery Photography Ltd

One of the new apprentices, 16-year-old trainee plumber Konner Benton, said: “Before starting my apprenticeship, I was studying at high school.

“I was very keen to start an apprenticeship – learning with a more hands-on approach appealed to me much more than the traditional classroom way.”

Liam Kendall, who has joined Equans as an apprentice electrician, said: “As someone from Rotherham, working for Equans seemed like the perfect fit for me.

“Seeing all the work they do with Rotherham Council and now being a part of that feels like I’m giving back to my community in a way.”

Since the contract began in 2020, Equans has recruited 62 new apprentices from across the borough to work on its housing repairs and maintenance service.

Neil Wright, project director at Equans, said: “Apprenticeships have really grown in popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why.

“The opportunity to gain skills and qualifications for life, while also getting hands-on experience alongside expert colleagues from day one, provides the perfect springboard for a successful career in the construction industry.

“It’s vital that businesses like Equans help to create employment opportunities for young people in the areas where we work – not only to give them a helping hand into a successful career, but also to ensure our industry is developing the skilled professionals we need for the future.

“We’re proud to be doing that right here in Rotherham, and we’re looking forward to watching our new recruits follow in the footsteps of the other great apprentices we have in the business.”

Rotherham Council’s cabinet member for transport, jobs and the local economy, Cllr John Williams, said: “Creating opportunities for young people to develop skills and build successful careers is a key priority for Rotherham Council, and strong partnerships with local organisations help make this possible.

“Apprenticeships offer an invaluable route into the workplace, combining practical training with paid employment.

“They not only help individuals gain the skills employers are looking for, but also enable companies such as Equans to invest in local talent and support the future growth and development of our borough.”