Bradford District Construction Academy

Supported by Bradford District anchor institutions’ suppliers through their social value commitments.

Creating a fully skilled workforce of the future for employers, the Construction Academy ‘virtual model’ is a bespoke pathway for learners into the construction industry.

The Need

There are huge untapped opportunities in the Bradford District to connect the interest of learners and job seekers with future jobs in the construction industry.

Construction courses at our local colleges are oversubscribed
Employers have identified a skills shortage
There is a significant infrastructure development pipeline in Bradford District over the next 10 years, as identified in the Regeneration and Growth Plan (City Village, Southern Gateway, Airedale Hospital, etc)
Developing and new approaches to social value through procurement in the District provide a unique opportunity to connect learners and employers through our education providers for mutual benefit

The Solution

The Construction Academy will:

Provide students with a well-defined pathway to be equipped with the skills to be ready for work
Provide a scalable model for employers to support students to become their current and future workforce – shaped by the needs of the industry and specific businesses.
Provide a partnership approach with our local education providers
Offer a range of employer interventions depending on the scale of their projects and contracts

Student Pathway

Core trades (brick, joinery – working towards groundworks)

Work experience (as part of course provided by employer)
Level 1 qualification (provided by Bradford College)
Delivered on-site where possible

Level 2 Apprenticeship in specific subject (paid & provided by employer in collaboration with Bradford College)
Trainee on-site (paid work by employer)
Full time education Level 2 and above in specific subject – an option for those who don’t get work

Higher trades (electrical, plumbing, M&E)

Work experience (as part of course provided by employer)
Level 1/2 qualification (provided by Bradford College)
Delivered on-site where possible

Level 3 Apprenticeship in specific subject (paid & provided by employer in collaboration with Bradford College)
Trainee on-site (paid work by employer)
Full time education Level 3 and above in specific subject – an option for those who don’t get work

Professional trades (construction design/QS/site management)

Work experience (as part of course provided by employer)
Level 1/2 qualification (provided by Bradford College)

Degree level Apprenticeship in specific subject (paid & provided by employer in collaboration with University of Bfd)

Back-office professions (PM, finance, sales, office mngt)

Work experience (as part of course provided by employer)
Level 1/2/3 qualification (provided by Bradford College)

Degree level Apprenticeship in specific subject (paid & provided by employer in collaboration with University of Bfd)

Employer Options

Delivered by principal contractor and their supply chain, are employer options are for both large and small contracts:

Larger Contracts

When working on larger contracts the contractor will work in partnership with Bradford Council, Bradford College, SkillsHouse, Job Centre Plus, as well as community organisations to identify valuable upskilling and work-ready opportunities for the communities of Bradford and the wider district.

Smaller Contracts

It is expected that smaller contract values and supply chain partners will support larger contractors with relevant skills development in specific areas of expertise.

Employer Intervention Options

Awareness and inspiration: The quick wins, which are hugely beneficial to learners – site visits and masterclasses – all help expose learners to the world of work.
- Site visits – students explore workplaces to understand different industries
- Taster sessions – short sessions to experience diverse career paths
- Design competitions – challenges to showcase creativity and problem-solving
- Career days/fairs – events connecting students with potential employers
- Masterclasses – expert-led sessions to deepen knowledge
Skills development and employability: This is where Bradford College really starts to work collaboratively to prepare the workforce of the future, ensuring the right content is being taught to meet employer needs, alongside placements that give learners real site experience and bridging programmes.
- Mock interviews – practice sessions to prepare for job interviews
- Curriculum design – resources and training for educators
- Real site experience – Hands-on exposure to the construction industry
- Bridging programmes – support for students before Level 2 education
Progression routes: This element is the pinnacle of why this work is being done – ultimately, jobs for Bradford people on Bradford projects.
- Apprenticeships – earning while learning through practical training
- Jobs – entry-level employment opportunities
Community contributions: Bradford College delivers to over 500 learners across Bradford and can link partners with learners through collaborative projects.
- Equipment donations – tools and materials to support learning
- Financial donations – funds to cover student costs like transport
- Community days – volunteering opportunities to apply skills