Bellway Homes

Bellway Homes North East partnered with Teesside University to deliver a Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship programme. The collaboration addressed significant skills shortages in critical roles such as engineering and quantity surveying, enabling the company to develop its own talent pipeline and meet its long-term workforce needs.

Challenge

Bellway Homes identified a pressing challenge: significant skills shortages within the construction industry, particularly in roles like engineers and quantity surveyors. The company had traditionally relied on graduate recruitment, but this approach no longer fully addressed their needs. To remain competitive and ensure sustainable growth, Bellway Homes needed a new strategy to develop skilled professionals who could thrive in these critical roles.

Solution

This bespoke programme allowed apprentices to gain on-the-job experience at Bellway while studying for a degree in civil engineering at Teesside University. The university worked closely with Bellway to design a programme tailored to the company’s specific needs, ensuring that the curriculum aligned with the demands of the construction industry.

Teesside University’s flexible approach was instrumental in the programme’s success. We provided responsive support, adapted to Bellway’s commercial priorities, and resolved challenges quickly and effectively. The partnership offered apprentices like Finley Cowell the opportunity to combine practical workplace learning with academic study, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise.

Impact

The collaboration between Bellway Homes and Teesside University has delivered significant benefits:

• Addressing skills gaps: the programme has enabled Bellway to cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals in critical roles, reducing reliance on external recruitment and closing the skills gap within the organisation.
• Tailored talent development: by partnering with Teesside University, Bellway ensured that apprentices received education and training aligned with the company’s operational needs, fostering highly relevant skills.
• Increased engagement and retention: apprentices like Finley Cowell reported high levels of satisfaction, valuing the combination of academic learning and practical experience. This approach has helped Bellway build a more motivated and committed workforce.
• Enhanced employer reputation: Bellway’s investment in professional apprenticeships has strengthened its reputation as an employer that prioritises talent development and innovation.