Barratt Homes has taken on a brand new apprentice on the Isle of Wight as part of its commitment to nurturing local talent.
The company has taken on 22-year-old Zak Chiverton from Newport as a site management apprentice at its Bluebell Meadows development in Newport.
Working alongside a team of experienced construction experts from Barratt Homes, Zak will play an important part in creating the new community.
Zak, a former Sandown Bay Academy pupil, said:
“I think that’s going to be the most rewarding part of the job; seeing people walk into their new homes after we’ve built it up from the ground. Homes are really important to people and moving into a new one is like starting a new chapter. It’s exciting to play a part in that.”
The 22-year-old will have the benefit of ‘earning while he’s learning’ thanks to his apprenticeship with Barratt Homes. He’ll get paid for the 1 day a week he spends studying at Eastleigh College as well as the 4 days a week he spends on site honing his practical skills.
Zak added:
“Having that money in my pocket is a real bonus. I’d wanted to get in construction for a while, having seen members of my family working in building, so to get paid to train for the job is a winner.”
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Anthony Dimmick, community liaison manager at Barratt Homes, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Zak to our growing team. Providing opportunities for local young people to kick start their construction careers is important to us as a company. It’s rewarding to know that as well as building homes we’re building the foundations for careers.”
Councillor Dave Stewart, leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said:
“Zak is a great example of how this positive partnership between the council and Barratt Homes is helping to support young people into apprenticeships.
“Through our Section 106 planning agreements we are creating new Employment and Skills Plans which offer a wide range of local jobs, skills opportunities, work experience and careers activity, helping us to create a workforce ready to drive forward future development as part of our ambitious regeneration plans.
“I’m delighted that Barratt Homes has agreed to create up to 16 more apprenticeships on the Island through its current projects in Newport and East Cowes.”
