Construction Academies
Optimum Skills Construction Academies in Gateshead and Benfield opened to support people into careers in construction and bridge the skills gap within the construction industry.
Optimum Skills Construction Academy offers learners a hands-on experience. With opportunities across the construction industry, there are opportunities for everyone wanting to build a career in construction. Our dedicated construction team are experienced within the industry and can provide learners with the skills and knowledge needed to progress in future building careers!
Why Choose a Career in Construction?
The industry needs to recruit an additional 225,000 new workers by 2027 just to meet demand.
(Source: National House Building Council)
There are career opportunities no matter the level you are starting at.
Construction is a lucrative industry, and the demand for skilled workers is always growing.
Construction Programmes
Aged 16 – 18 and looking to kickstart your career in construction? Through our Construction Programmes, we support young people across the region (Gateshead, Newcastle, and surrounding areas) with industry-specific work-ready training to progress into apprenticeship opportunities with local employers.
The construction academy has been opened to help fill the skills shortage within construction, which remains one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the UK. We are focused on training local talented individuals. Working alongside our employer partners, learners will not only gain relevant industry experience but will progress into apprenticeship opportunities.
A Construction Programme prepares young people for their future careers, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to become work-ready. With 6 to 14 weeks of learning, including work experience and practical lessons.
What gives our Construction Programme the edge? We have training facilities based in Gateshead, with industry equipment, where you can learn hands-on the practical skills needed to work in construction. A Construction Programme is a fantastic opportunity to gain practical skills, work experience and knowledge backed up by industry-recognised qualifications.
“I joined the traineeship straight out of school after receiving my GCSE’s. I’ve gained knowledge of joinery and the skills to do it, joinery was something I knew I wanted to do. The benefits of doing a traineeship are that you get to practice the skills and then you’re able to apply them to a working environment. I’ve enjoyed doing something new as I’ve never done joinery, bricklaying, or roofing before.”
“I was previously with another training provider who didn’t offer the support I needed. Since coming to Optimum Skills, I have learnt so much from the tutors and staff, and can’t wait to see what my future has in store. The traineeship has given me the opportunity to try all trades and build knowledge and skills.”
Apprenticeships
Optimum Skills are offering apprenticeship pathways into the construction industry, with qualifications in Bricklaying Level 2, Joinery Level 2, and Roofing Level 2.
Our specialist tutors will be on hand to assist with all off-the-job learning at the Construction Academy. An apprenticeship in construction will mean that not only are you gaining all relevant qualifications, but also getting hands-on experience with your employer and at the Construction Academy. You’ll even be getting paid to do so!
Find out more about the following apprenticeship pathways.
Construction Training Courses
Aged 19+ and looking to gain the skills and qualifications to get started in a career in construction? Take part in fully funded training to equip you with the skills and qualifications for a successful career in construction. We are partnered with employers across the region who can provide progression opportunities.
You will attend learning at our Gateshead Construction Academy for 1 – 2 weeks before gaining direct access to work opportunities through our links to employers.
For more information apply below or get in touch.
