Building the future of the Construction Industry together

The construction industry is built on skilled people, but with an ageing workforce and increasing demand, employers across Oxfordshire are recognising the importance of investing in the next generation. For many, apprenticeships are no longer simply a way of recruiting new staff, they're a long-term investment in the future of their business.

At Abingdon & Witney College, we work in partnership with employers to make that investment worthwhile. From helping businesses recruit the right apprentice to providing ongoing support throughout the programme, our apprenticeship team is there every step of the way, ensuring employers and apprentices have everything they need to succeed.

For Benfield and Loxley, apprenticeships have always been part of the company's DNA. Celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, the Oxford-based construction company has a proud tradition of developing young talent.

Project Manager Dan explains why that commitment has never changed:

"Ever since the company was established, we've always taken on new apprentices on a regular basis. It's a really good way to give back to the community as well as give opportunities to young people, so it's something we really pride ourselves on."

Once an apprentice joins the business, the partnership with the College continues well beyond recruitment. Site Manager Adam says the regular communication and support from the apprenticeship team gives employers confidence that apprentices are progressing both on site and in college.

"The college support our apprentice carpenters very well. They liaise with us, letting us know if there are any issues, if they haven't been in, or if they're running behind with works, and how well they're getting on.

Adam says one of the biggest rewards is seeing apprentices become valued members of the team.

"Our two apprentices we currently have working for Benfield and Loxley, Archie and Niamh, have both come along very strongly working alongside our skilled carpenters. They're now starting to retain knowledge and be able to do tasks more independently across refurbs and new builds."

That focus on developing people for the long term is shared by Greencore Homes, where apprenticeships are seen as an essential part of the company's future.

Timber Frame Manager Ian Pateman says:

"We are an expanding company thinking about our long-term future and bringing on new apprentices is the future of our company. If you introduce new youth to your company,they will eventually move on to be future managers. One of the most rewarding things to see is their confidence growing, their communication skills and eventually they're actually coming up with ideas of their own that helps the whole workforce."

Matthew McCabe, Production Manager at Dorchester Living, is a former apprentice himself. He has worked alongside Abingdon & Witney College since the Bicester Construction Skills Centre first opened in 2019 and describes the partnership as "second to none."

He believes the industry has a responsibility to invest in its future.

"We decided to bring on apprentices to invest into the industry because it is woefully under resourced at the moment. We have an ageing workforce and we need to bring on the younger generation not only to supplement those leaving the industry through age, but also to fulfil what the industry deserves."

Matthew also wants to reassure employers who may be considering taking on an apprentice for the first time.

" The working relationship we've had with the College has just been second to none. If you speak to the right people they'll assist you through it; the schemes, the funding, and the benefits pay dividends.

Anyone who doesn't take an apprentice on I think is missing a trick. They're not there to just become another pair of hands. They will have frustrating days but engage with them and they will engage back with you."

Those experiences are echoed across our employer network. Apprentices bring enthusiasm, fresh ideas and a willingness to learn, while employers provide the knowledge and mentoring that turns potential into expertise. With the support of Abingdon & Witney College throughout the apprenticeship journey, businesses can be confident they'redeveloping skilled employees who will become valued members of their workforce for years to come.

Whether you're a small local contractor or a larger construction company, taking on an apprentice is an investment in your business, your people and the future of the industry. Our Apprenticeship Team is here to support you with recruitment, funding guidance and ongoing reviews, making it easier than ever to grow your workforce with the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Hear firsthand from our apprentice employers on why apprenticeships are transforming their businesses. Watch the full interview on YouTube: