Barratt Redrow lays foundation for young builders at Preston College

A group of students at Preston College have landed the first construction bursaries awarded by the country’s biggest housebuilder, Barratt and David Wilson Homes, part of Barratt Redrow.

Open to students studying construction courses at Preston College, the bursary will provide financial assistance, mentoring, and potential work placements for those demonstrating passion, potential, and a commitment to building a future in construction.

The first cohort to become Barratt Redrow Sustainable Housing Ambassadors are: Piper Billington, Edward Horan, Olivia Edwards, Aahil Chughtai, Muhamed Mia, Blake Carlisle, Harry Jemson, Ben Cockcroft and Josh Porter.

Barratt and David Wilson Homes in the North-West launched the new Sustainable Housing Bursary in partnership with Preston College to support local students pursuing careers in a host of trades from bricklaying to joinery, plumbing and plastering.

Students on the college’s T-Levels in Professional Construction courses can also apply for the bursary.

 The partnership is part of the housebuilder’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent and tackling the growing skills gap within the industry.

David Hesson, regional managing director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes, said: “Against a backdrop of the worst skills shortage in the industry since the Second World War, we’re proud to support aspiring construction professionals here in Preston.

 “By investing in local talent, we’re not only helping youngsters to take their first steps into the industry, but also helping to secure the long-term future of UK housebuilding.”

Mark Taylor, director of CSTEM at Preston College said: “This bursary from Barratt and David Wilson Homes is a fantastic opportunity for our students and our community.

"Financial incentives widen access by removing barriers, while mentoring and placements raise awareness of industry pathways and build aspiration for meaningful careers.

“By supporting skills development, it drives attainment and enables long term achievement.

"Critically, it ensures that talent from all backgrounds contributes to the construction industry and strengthens the communities we serve.”

Applications for the bursary will open each year in September and will be awarded based on criteria including academic performance, dedication to the field, and personal circumstances.

Barratt and David Wilson Homes encourages students from diverse backgrounds to apply and is committed to fostering inclusivity in construction.

Over the past two years, the housebuilder has led a schools’ outreach programme that has so far engaged over one million young people.

Barratt and David Wilson Homes have developments across Preston including at Centurion Village in Leyland.