Howarth collaborates with Derby College Group to establish construction academy

Leading builder’s merchant, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies’ has joined forces with Derby College Group (DCG) to establish an Employer Academy for construction students in Derby and lkeston.

Giving youngsters the opportunity to gain industry-accredited learning to boost their chances of securing a job in the industry during lockdown and beyond, the initiative will provide students across a broad range of disciplines, from brickwork to joinery, access to Howarth’s award-winning online training academy.

Groups of students will also join industry visits to Howarth’s head office in Leeds, factory and adjoining port in Hull and local suppliers. In addition they will attend expert demonstration days at the Derby branch, which has spearheaded the Employer Academy.

Howarth Timber & Building Supplies won the Training Company of the Year award from the Builders Merchants Federation and the online training academy covers the spectrum of the latest product and industry knowledge.

After sitting online tests, the students will receive certificates which they can include in their CV portfolios.

Howarth Timber & Building Supplies’ senior sales executive, Adam Fox, explained: “We have supplied materials to the college Construction Academy for some time and were keen to develop the relationship further.

“We have launched the Academy to around 350 students so far and will introduce new students to the programme at the start of every academic year.

Derby branch manager, Talsa Middleton, continued: “By sharing the wealth of knowledge and training that is embedded in our own staff training programmes, our aim is to give the students a head start in their careers as trades people.

Derby College Group assistant director of learner and employer partnerships, Debbie Keegan, concluded: “Howarth Timber & Building Supplies are a perfect example of how employers work with us to co-design and co-deliver the curriculum to ensure that young people develop the skills, behaviours and attitudes that employers need.

“This is an amazing opportunity for our students and the online training has been a welcome addition to the students’ virtual study programmes during these difficult times to further boost their chances of finding an apprenticeship or job when they leave College.”

Established in 1840, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies is the UK’s largest privately-owned timber company with a network of 33 branches across the UK.