Hands-on learning: Kirklees College students build their future in Dewsbury
In collaboration with Kirklees College, we are excited to announce the launch of the first phase of the ‘Kirklees Build Project’ introducing construction skills to Dewsbury for the first time.
The new Kirklees Build Skills and Education Centre at Springfield Sixth Form Centre in Dewsbury is now open.
The facility, which opened in September 2024, welcomed its first intake of construction students. Over the coming years, we will offer students real-world experience on various construction projects in and around Dewsbury, including the historic Dewsbury Arcade and other aspects of the Dewsbury Blueprint.
Funded by a UK Government by grant money allocated to Dewsbury through the government’s Towns Fund, this project has been in development for two years. It addresses significant growth predictions in the construction sector by leading companies and fills a local gap in construction training facilities in North Kirklees.
With such high interest from young people within Dewsbury, the college will be welcoming new students next year. Applications for Construction courses starting in September 2025 are now open. Apply now on the Kirklees College website.
Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration said;
“I’m excited we are working alongside Kirklees College to give students the fantastic opportunity to get hands on experience within construction.
“It’s well documented that the construction industry has a huge skills shortage so this programme should lead to those finishing having a great opportunity to build a lifelong career within the industry.
“By investing and training the employees of the future we are also helping to address the skills shortage which in turn will positively impact economic growth across the borough.
“Dewsbury is known to have one of the youngest populations in the UK, and our investment within this project will not only contribute to the younger generation’s future but help make Dewsbury a great place to live.
“Working onsite at various Dewsbury Blueprint projects will be a great way for students to learn the ins and outs of a construction role, as well better their chances at securing a job in their chosen field.”
Steve Plumstead, Director of Curriculum for Construction, Engineering and Land-Based studies at Kirklees College said;
“We were delighted to welcome our first cohort of construction students to our new training facility at Springfield Sixth Form Centre in September. The facility is working really well, and has allowed students from our Dewsbury catchment area to access training in the construction trades for the first time in many years. We look forward to welcoming more students next year and the next phase of the project, when they will relocate to a live site environment.”