On Wednesday, 16th July, McAleer & Rushe proudly marked a major milestone in its commitment to community development and inclusive employment by officially launching a new Construction Training Academy in Birmingham. Delivered in partnership with RMF Group, the initiative aims to equip individuals from the local area with the skills, qualifications, and experience needed to pursue a successful career in construction.
Hosted at RMF’s dedicated training facility, the launch event welcomed key stakeholders from across the public and private sectors. The Academy is the result of a collaborative effort between McAleer & Rushe, RMF Group, and Solihull College, all sharing a vision to break down barriers to employment for those furthest from the labour market through accessible, accredited, and practical training.
Four of the fifteen individuals set to become the Academy’s first cohort were in attendance, joined by representatives from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Birmingham City Council, Bournville Village Trust, Beating Time, and Better Pathways Mental Health Charity. The residents had the opportunity to tour the facility, meet their future mentors, observe the programme in action, and connect with the community of support that will accompany them throughout their journey.
Upon completion, they will be given the opportunity to transition into roles on McAleer & Rushe’s projects in Birmingham, including a Purpose-Built Student Accommodation scheme in Selly Oak and a 540-bed PBSA Vita scheme in the city centre.
Training for the first cohort officially begins on Monday, 21st July. Over the course of the six-week programme, learners will receive essential training and qualifications, including:
- Level 1 Health & Safety
- CSCS Green Card
- Manual Handling
- Abrasive Wheels
- Working at Heights
- Emergency First Aid
- Site Access Traffic Marshall
- CPCS A73 Plant & Vehicle Marshall
More than just a training course, the Academy is designed as a wraparound support system that recognises the diverse needs of learners. It provides targeted support in Maths and English, one-to-one mentoring, and, where necessary, accommodation and resettlement services. The programme also offers vital guidance for ex-offenders re-entering the workforce, helping them make a successful transition to life outside custody.
