Here at The Forshaw Group, our INS-Pire Academy recently hosted (25 October 2022) a special visit from Caroline Gumble, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). The long-awaited day, originally planned before Covid, included presentations, activities and a tour of the newly opened Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot. It was an opportunity to celebrate the talent in the area and highlight the contribution local businesses are playing in narrowing the skills gap and shining a light on the diversity and inclusion agenda.
The event was attended by representatives from local businesses, clients, partners, Knowsley Chamber of Commerce and Knowsley Council, including the High Sherriff of Merseyside, Lesley Martin-Wright JP DL. Teachers and students from All Saints Secondary School, in Kirkby, Liverpool, including headteacher Tony McGuinness and some of the latest students to benefit from work placements within industry, also attended.
In collaboration with over 50 local businesses, The Knowsley Apprenticeship Partnership and our INS-Pire Academy have been instrumental in providing over 100 apprenticeship roles across Knowsley, including opportunities within plumbing, plastering, painting, joinery, electrician work and administration.
Caroline Gumble, CEO of the CIOB, commented: “The CIOB is committed to tackling the equality, diversity and inclusivity agenda, so it is heartening to be invited to such an inspirational event. Having the opportunity to speak to some of these young people and hear first-hand about the opportunities they have embraced gives me the confidence that we will address the skills gap and that the construction industry will emerge stronger than ever.”
Our managing director, Liam Hanlon added: “It was a privilege to host this special day of celebration and recognition. It was a great opportunity to hear direct from some of our apprentices, and an honour to be able to showcase their achievements in front of the CIOB. The skills shortage is very real and the levelling up work is vital. There is still much more to do, but I am proud of what we are already achieving in Merseyside.”
Following the presentations, guests were invited to visit and tour Kier’s £38 million project, Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot, which was followed by the inaugural Knowsley Chamber of Commerce Construction Forum meeting.
High Sherriff of Merseyside, Lesley Martin-Wright JP DL, said: “The Construction Forum aims to bring together and establish a network of companies from the construction and development sectors. Our meeting, following on from such a stimulating day, reinforces the importance of the Forum and how it can make a positive impact within the sector.”
For further information on The Forshaw Group, apprenticeships and levelling up and the EDI agenda, please visit the website: https://www.theforshawgroup.com/
