Member Article

Barratt Developments launches second year of its successful Armed Forces programme for trainee assistant site managers in Newcastle

Barratt Developments North East, which includes both the Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes brands, has launched the second year of its trainee assistant site manager programme for the Armed Forces community in Newcastle. It is now actively looking for applicants with a background in the Armed Forces who are looking to start a career in housebuilding.

Barratt launched the programme last year after identifying that many ex-forces personnel possessed the skills and experiences that are in high demand within the house building industry. Last year the programme successfully enrolled 24 applicants, whereas this year the target is to recruit 27 ex Armed Forces personnel. This year’s programme, which is widely recognised by the industry and fully CITB compliant, starts in October 2017 with successful applicants only taking 12 months to complete it.

The programme teaches essential construction skills, people management and self-development, building on the applicant’s existing skills gained during careers in the Army, Navy or RAF. During the 12 month programme recruits will be responsible for a number of areas including supporting the site manager in coordinating trades, labour and materials to meet production, and deputising for the site manager.

Andy George, head of talent management at Barratt Developments, said: “Last year’s programme was a tremendous success, with 24 enrolling in it. The skills they gained in the Armed Forces complement those needed to join the housebuilding industry and we have designed the programme specifically for them. We are hoping lots of great applicants enrol this year.”

Last year Barratt, the UK’s largest housebuilder, signed the Armed Forces Covenant which cements the firm’s commitment to supporting the British Armed Forces. The Covenant recognises the value that serving personnel, both regular and reserves, veterans and military families, contribute to the UK. By signing the Covenant Barratt Developments declares itself an Armed Forces friendly organisation.

David Thomas, chief executive of Barratt Developments, said: “The country has an obligation to recognise the tremendous role the British Armed Forces plays. By signing the Covenant we are publicly making a commitment to recognise that role and to support the Armed Forces community where we can. We are proud to employ many ex Armed Forces personnel and are actively recruiting more because we know how much they can contribute to the company.”

Visit www.barrattcareers.co.uk for more information about this programme and other job opportunities available at Barratt Developments.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Richard Savage .