Pioneering Cinderford construction school AccXel is highlighting the progression of two of its former apprentices who are on track to take the next step in their careers, less than a year after graduating.
Cole Jennings, a former Bell Homes groundworks apprentice and Kieran Mather, a former plant apprentice, both graduated from their AccXel apprenticeships in 2024 — and are now looking to build upon their existing knowledge through the centre's Skill STEPS programme.
The programme's five bespoke courses, written by AccXel with input from industry partners, are designed to equip those working in construction with the skills and qualifications they need to progress into management, providing a pathway from labourer through to site supervisor.
Cole and Kieran are now enrolled onto Skill STEP 3, a seven-month programme which, upon completion, grants them an NVQ Level 3 in occupational work supervision and a gold supervisor CSCS card.
Managing director and principal of AccXel, Natalie King, said: 'We are incredibly proud to see our apprentices flourish through their journey, advancing from their AccXel apprenticeship to embarking onto our Skill STEP Supervisory Programme.
'At AccXel, our vision and mission of lifelong learning is not just a goal but a reality in action.
'We are excited to witness the next generation of construction professionals thrive, grow and shape the future of our industry and as our alumni, AccXel will be on hand to support them every step of the way.'
The school recommends its Level 2 apprenticeships and Skill STEPS courses as progression routes for those aged 16 and over who are new to the industry and are looking to progress into management roles in groundworks, bricklaying and plant operations.
And at a higher level, AccXel's Level 3 construction support technician apprenticeship is described as 'a perfect stepping stone' onto its Level 4 building services engineering senior technician, site supervisor and quantity surveyor apprenticeships, equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Certificate (HNC).
To find out more about AccXel's Skills STEPS programme, including how to apply, visit accxel.co.uk/skill-steps.
