Building Futures: How a NEET Construction Course is Changing Lives
For many young people who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), finding a pathway into a stable career can be a daunting challenge.
The Skills Construction Centre, in partnership with Manchester City Council, Morgan Sindall Construction, and supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is offering a life-changing 12-week construction programme designed to provide hands-on experience, employability skills, and qualifications that open doors to the construction industry.
A practical approach to learning
Unlike traditional education settings, this programme takes place on an active construction site, allowing learners to gain real-world experience in bricklaying, groundworks, and health and safety training. "They're not stuck in a classroom anywhere, and it's fantastic for them to get a good idea of the environment on a construction site," explains Donna from the Skills Construction Centre.
Students also work towards earning their CSCS card, a crucial certification for employment in the industry. Alongside technical skills, they receive support with CV writing and employability training, ensuring they are job-ready by the end of the course.
Breaking barriers to employment
Many of the young people enrolled in the programme face significant challenges, from academic struggles to mental health concerns or previous encounters with the criminal justice system.
"Some of them have actually come from the youth offending team as well," Donna notes. "It's about bringing them on board, showing them there’s a better way of life, and giving them the training, skills, and confidence they need to get a job."
The location of the programme is also strategic, targeting areas with high unemployment and limited opportunities. "Wythenshawe is quite a deprived area," Donna explains. "I was looking for a site close to the need so they can actually get here without it costing too much money."
A stepping stone to a career
For many participants, this programme is more than just a course—it’s a chance to rebuild their futures. Kai, a current student, describes his experience: "It’s actually a very, very good opportunity. As soon as I found out about it, I jumped at it because it’s free, it’s local, and it’s giving me real skills." He adds, "Without this course, I don’t know what I would be doing right now."
The impact extends beyond the training period. The programme includes a three-to-four-week work experience placement, giving students the chance to prove themselves on-site and potentially secure long-term employment. As Donna points out, "Even if we just get three out of twelve into full-time work, that’s three more skilled workers helping to bridge the industry’s skills gap."
The power of collaboration
The programme’s success is driven by strong partnerships. Morgan Sindall has been instrumental in providing not just equipment and materials but also mentoring, work experience, and career guidance.
"Morgan Sindall can see these young people on their sites, working with their contractors and subcontractors," says Donna. "If they’re recruiting, why not take them from here? They’re ready."
Manchester City Council has also played a vital role in securing funding and ensuring young people in the region have access to vocational training. "Young people are the future of Manchester and the country as a whole," says Lauren Calderbank, Skills Programme Coordinator at Manchester City Council. "They need opportunities, and people to believe in them, so they can reach their goals."
“The feedback has been really great,” Lauren continues, “you can really see their personal growth and development of confidence levels. It can get a little bit emotional at times and it just proves why projects like this are needed.”
A future built on opportunity
At the heart of this initiative is the belief that everyone deserves a chance. "For these young people, just turning up on time is an achievement," says Donna. "They come in, put on their PPE, and for the first time, they feel like they’re part of a team."
With plans to expand the programme to other locations, there is hope that more young people will have access to this invaluable stepping stone into the construction industry. "The journey is amazing," Donna reflects. "I still get phone calls and emails from past students thanking me for helping them find work. That’s what it’s all about."
For those unsure of their next steps, Kai has some advice: "Explore as many options as you can, get as much under your belt as possible, and use that to build your career. This course gave me a direction—maybe it can do the same for you."
A fantastic finish
Since filming, the course has successfully concluded, with all participants registering with the social enterprise We Are Footprint, part of Morgan Sindall’s Labour Desk. We’re also thrilled to share that Harley has been offered a permanent role with SCS Building Solutions - read his story here: https://www.morgansindallconstruction.com/news/harleys-story-opening-doors-for-neurodiverse-talent-in-construction/