BALFOUR Beatty has announced its intention to increase the number of apprentices, graduates and trainees by around 60% compared to its 2021 intake.
The contractor’s commitment will see nearly 600 new positions made available to young people across its projects in the UK, doubling down on the company’s public declaration last year where it pledged to increase its intake by around 30%.
With 6% of its workforce in ‘Earn & Learn’ roles today, Balfour Beatty has been recognised by The 5% Club for its work in this area, securing a Club Gold Award through its Employer Audit Scheme which validates members’ activities, explores future plans and commitments, and examines their approach to quality, social mobility and diversity and inclusion.
Nadhim Zahawi, UK Government education secretary, said, “As education secretary, I’m delighted to see Balfour Beatty doubling down on its commitment to hiring apprentices, graduates and trainees. Schools, skills and families are at the forefront of my mission as Secretary of State, and Balfour Beatty are at the heart of the skills revolution that is transforming the futures of young people across the country and boosting our economy.
“Their commitment to upskilling the next generation is to be commended, and I wish all the best to those taking part in the schemes.”
Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty group chief executive and Founder of The 5% Club, added, “At Balfour Beatty, we want to attract the next generation of talent – we want to inspire and educate people to consider the construction and infrastructure industry as an attractive long term career choice.
“This latest commitment to an increase in our emerging talent is testament to how we go above and beyond, on a daily basis, to provide young people with the skills and experience they need to build strong, future careers. Careers that will enable us to continue to deliver vital national infrastructure, shape skylines, build communities and truly make a difference.”
