Wirral apprentices showcase their skills on new housing scheme
Apprentices from Wirral Met College showcased their growing skills during a visit to Persimmon’s River Walk development during National Apprenticeship Week, where the council is working with partners to create more training and job opportunities for local people.
Four of Persimmon’s local apprentices showed Councillor Skillicorn, Chair of Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee, a completed home they have been working on, demonstrating both their joinery and bricklaying skills.
Creating local employment opportunities as projects such as River Walk progress is a key priority for the council. Through planning and procurement processes, the council secures social value commitments as part of planning applications, and the Economic Growth Service is working closely with construction partners and training providers to ensure this translates into regeneration that delivers meaningful, lasting benefits for Wirral residents.
It’s fantastic to see the real-life skills and on the job experience these apprentices, who all live locally here in Wirral, are getting on site. Developments like this create more than just much-needed new homes, they also offer really valuable employment opportunities, helping to address skills shortages and building capacity within the construction sector in our borough.
By working together, the council, Wirral Met College and Persimmon have been able to partner to match the needs of the local workforce to good quality opportunities with great progression prospects. It’s a great example of how regeneration can benefit the local economy and drive inclusive growth.
This partnership has created real, tangible opportunities for local skills development and progression, making a long-term difference for learners, employers, and the wider community.
We are already seeing the benefits in practice. Persimmon has taken in two apprentices and delivered high-quality masterclasses, which is a clear demonstration of their commitment to investing in local talent.
This collaborative approach gives the college a strong platform to expand apprenticeship numbers, strengthen employer engagement, and align provision more closely with economic need. It positions Wirral Met College as a key partner in supporting regeneration and workforce development across the borough.
It was great to welcome Councillor Skillicorn to River Walk to meet some of our talented apprentices who were proud to showcase their work.
We’re always looking at new ways to inspire people into the industry, and I hope that more young people will consider one of the varied, exciting career paths that construction and housebuilding has to offer.
Employers in Wirral that would like to learn more about how to maximise local employment and supply chain opportunities within their organisations can get in touch by emailing economicgrowthservice@wirral.gov.uk.
