More than forty talented apprentices have celebrated their graduation from the three-year Berkeley Group Apprenticeship Programme at a special event in central London on Friday 16 August.
The former apprentices, who joined the programme in October 2021, have successfully achieved a Construction Site Supervisor Level 4 qualification, setting them on the path to success in the built environment sector.
The celebration was attended by senior leaders from across Berkeley Group, including Managing Director of St James and St William, Dean Summers and Richard Taylor, Tutor from Farnborough College, who played a key role in guiding the apprentices through their coursework and End Point Assessment.
Berkeley Group employed around 150 apprentices, with another 325 working on its sites for its supply chain partners.
A new group of apprentices are preparing to join Berkeley’s programme next month as the company continues to invest in its future workforce.
Dean Summers said: "Huge congratulations to all of our apprentices for achieving their qualification and for making such a fantastic contribution to Berkeley Group over the last few years. These talented professionals are already hugely valuable members of our teams and have proved themselves both in the classroom and on site.
“They have qualified at a hugely exciting time as our Government begins a major homebuilding drive and companies like Berkeley are working incredibly hard to increase delivery. For all this to succeed we need to overcome the industry’s skills shortage and train up many more highly skilled professionals like those we’re celebrating today.”
Shakir Kikomeko, one of the graduating apprentices, said:
"I'm proud of my Berkeley Group career and the invaluable skillset I've acquired. I'm equally thrilled to have crossed paths with exceptionally talented individuals, each encounter a unique and inspiring chapter in my journey."
Richard Taylor said: "It has been a privilege to support these apprentices throughout their journey. Their hard work and dedication have been truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that they will make significant contributions to the construction industry in the years to come."
As well as achieving technical skills and qualifications, the apprentices are eligible for TechCIOB membership - a professional recognition that will further enhance their career prospects.
Skills and Social Mobility
Driving social mobility is a key priority for Berkeley Group, and the company’s Future Skills programmes enable people of all ages and backgrounds to reach their potential and build a lasting career.
The company provides a mix of high-quality training pathways to attract a diverse range of people into the built environment sector.
Around 9% of the Berkeley workforce are in ‘earn and learn’ roles, including around 150 apprentices, 50 graduates and 55 sponsored students working towards recognised qualifications. And a further 325 apprentices gained experience working on Berkeley sites for our supply chain partners over the last year.
Find out more about Berkeley Group’s Future Skills programmes here.