Written by: Sauri Walker, Communications Manager - Development
We’re proud to be working with local partners at Bath College and the University of Bath to help boost local skills in construction.
Construction is one of many industries crucial to the UK economy, but it’s also one of the hardest hit by recent labour shortages. In fact, it currently has the second-worst workforce shortage in the country. That’s why we’re committed to addressing this challenge by supporting local people into high-skilled jobs and sustainable employment.
Our employability service, Work Wise, connects local people with training and employment opportunities—including those at our flagship development, Mulberry Park. Since the site received outline planning permission in 2015, we’ve helped create 32 apprenticeships, 164 new jobs with local training, and 399 work placements in the community.
Over the last few months, we’ve welcomed students from the University of Bath’s Civil Engineering courses and Bath College’s Construction programme to Mulberry Park, giving them a first-hand look at a live construction site. These visits provide valuable insights into modern building methods and innovative design principles, showcasing the thought and care that go into creating neighbourhoods like Mulberry Park.
University of Bath students and lecturer, Gavin Knowles, in front of the latest phase of development
During the tours, students had the chance to see Phase 2 of Mulberry Park in progress. This next phase builds upon the existing amenities, which already include a primary school and community centre, and will soon feature shops and other facilities to enhance the neighbourhood even further.
Our Senior Site Manager, Alan Mapston, shared his thoughts: “It’s been fantastic to welcome students from Bath College and the University of Bath back to the site. Their enthusiasm for construction and architecture is always inspiring, and it’s rewarding to share our journey as Mulberry Park continues to grow. We’re proud to support future professionals in their learning and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make in the industry.”
We’ve also had great feedback from our partners:
Gavin Knowles, Director of Studies in the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering at the University of Bath, said: “We are always looking for interesting Civil Engineering projects in the local area, and the Curo team at Mulberry Park have been so accommodating in showing our students around the site with so much enthusiasm. A live construction site is such a valuable teaching tool and shows our future Engineers how building designs go together both physically and logistically. We’ve really valued this continued partnership.”
Karen Simmons, Employability and Engagement Officer at Bath College, added: “Visiting a live site and talking to experienced people already working in construction really helps to bring the learning to life and inspire our students on their future career journeys. It’s a valuable asset to our courses, and we are very grateful to be working with Curo.”