Apprentices thrive at state-of-the-art Bicester Construction Skills Centre

The first cohort of apprentices have started their journey at the brand new state-of-the-art Construction Skills Centre in Bicester.

Launched as part of Abingdon & Witney College’s apprenticeship programme, the facility provides exciting opportunities for apprentices to train for the fast-growing property maintenance sector, alongside professional skills in plumbing, gas engineering, electrical installation, carpentry and joinery trades.

Twelve talented apprentices have created the first cohort, including six Level 3 Site Carpenters, two Level 2 Site Carpenters, two Bench Joiners and two Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating Engineers. Already the centre has received glowing reviews from the apprentices.

Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery apprentice, Charlie Colmer from Britannia Joinery, commented;

"We've got amazing staff and facilities, as it's all brand new and we're the first to use them, which is great! I'm really looking forward to making the most of this opportunity."

The centre was carefully designed alongside industry professionals to house the type of industry-standard equipment that apprentices will find in the workplace, including a professional gas centre, electrical training bays for wiring regulation training and a large carpentry workshop.

These are complemented by highly experienced and inspirational tutors who are passionate about their area of expertise and wholeheartedly committed to supporting learners to achieve.

Mark French, Head of the Construction Skills Centre said:

“The new Bicester training centre is a great facility for apprentices. It is fully kitted out with all the tools, equipment and training spaces that our apprentices will need to learn their trade. It’s a great opportunity for people of all ages who are wanting to start a career in the construction industry.”

But don’t just take our word for it, take a virtual tour of our new £1m Bicester Construction Skills Centre here.

The construction sector is growing rapidly across Oxfordshire, and demand for specialist tradespeople has never been higher, so a construction apprenticeship is a great way to enter a profession where your skills will always be in demand.

Would you like an apprenticeship in the construction industry? Then look no further than the brand new Construction Skills Centre in Bicester.

With specialist apprenticeship courses in Plumbing, Gas Engineering, Carpentry and Property Maintenance, and industry-standard equipment to supplement your learning, we are confident you will thrive and succeed at the Bicester Construction Skills Centre.

Secure your place today on our varied and high-quality apprenticeship programme here.

Are you a construction employer considering hiring an apprentice?

The experienced team at the Bicester centre can help you to recruit your apprentice and even has a waiting list of people who want to start work. Apprenticeships delivered by Abingdon and Witney College have been graded “Outstanding” by Ofsted, so you know that you will be in safe and experienced hands with us.

If you are able to help, please call 01235 216 216, email apprenticeships@abingdon-witney.ac.uk to find out more.