Member Article

Dorset apprentices building a career in construction thanks to housebuilder

Apprentices Luca Balducci and Mark Sansom are laying the foundations for a successful career in construction, thanks to David Wilson Homes.

20-year-old Luca started working with the five-star housebuilder in September 2020 as part of a scheme with Test Valley Borough Council to provide local training and development opportunities post-lockdown.

After nearly two years, Luca is about to take on his Level 3 NVQ in carpentry while working at David Wilson Homes’ Farrier Place development in Poole. After that, Luca has been offered a place on the housebuilder’s Assistant Site Manager training programme where he will be able to put his practical skills to good use, while learning what it takes to be a Site Manager at a successful development.

Hot on Luca’s heels is newcomer, Mark, 20 who started with the housebuilder this month. He is currently completing his qualification in carpentry and his new placement at David Wilson Homes will be a great start to his career.

Luca said: “I’ve really enjoyed my first two years with David Wilson. Learning a trade as apprentice has been the best thing I could have done, and now I’m looking forward to moving up the career ladder as I start the Assistant Site Manager Programme.”

And, looking to follow a similar path, new recruit, Mark, is excited to get settled into his new role with the developer.

He added: “I’ve fancied a career in construction for some time, and to be taking on as apprentice with David Wilson here in Poole, is excellent. I can’t wait to get stuck into the role and be a part of a successful team.”

Anthony Dimmick, David Wilson Homes Community Liaison Manager is delighted that the housebuilder is able to offer apprenticeships for young people.

He said: “It’s extremely important that we work in tandem with the communities where we are building new homes, and by working closely with schools and the local council, it’s wonderful that young people are able to start their careers in construction here in Poole.

“I’m looking forward to seeing both Luca and Mark flourish in their roles.”

Through an employment and skills plan, David Wilson Homes and its sub-contractors will recruit and train local people and provide career advice in local schools.

Its Farrier Place development is a luxury selection of three- and four-bedroom homes, with plenty of surrounding countryside and scenic river walks to explore. There are excellent links to Bournemouth and Poole, an Ofsted rated ‘Good’ school and a great choice of local independent shops and restaurants nearby.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by David Wilson Homes .