As part of National Apprenticeship Week, the Government has confirmed that 13,000 apprenticeship and T Level opportunities will be created as part of the wider plan to develop and upgrade school buildings.

The upcoming education estates strategy will require construction firms working on these projects to provide opportunities for apprentices and T Level students - 90% of these opportunities will be offered within a 30 mile radius of the school being built.

This supports the prime minister’s target to get two-thirds of young people into employment, education or training by 2028 giving them the skills and experience they need to build rewarding careers.

The announcement comes during National Apprenticeship Week, when government, employers and apprenticeship providers come together to showcase the positive impact apprenticeships have on economic growth, communities, local businesses and individuals. Department for Education research shows that apprentices will contribute £25bn to England’s economy over their lifetime.

Skills minister, Jacqui Smith, said: “We can’t rebuild schools that are fit for the future unless we have the skilled workers we need to build them. Our education estates strategy will set out our vision for school and college buildings to deliver growth and opportunity to their local communities, backed by our plan for a decade of national renewal.

“This government is leading by example, creating incredible opportunities for our young people by championing apprenticeships and T Levels in our school and college building projects.”

Colleges can also now bid for a share of almost £300m in capital funding to create more places in colleges across the country, in addition to £283m devolved to metro mayors and local leaders. The funding will create more places for 16-19-year-olds and also expand construction training provision, helping to reduce waiting lists, address skills shortages, and support wider economic growth.

Managing director at Kier Construction Southern, John Boughton, said: “At Kier, we are committed to leaving lasting legacies for our communities. Jay’s story is just one example of how we nurture the next generation of talent into our industry.

“Our teams engage directly with local schools, colleges and community groups to provide clear routes into the diverse range of careers in construction.”

The education estates strategy will be published in full shortly.