bpha runs a number of apprentice schemes designed to address the skills shortages within the construction industry.

It works in partnership with a number of leading developers, contractors and builders and former bpha apprentices are now employed at Otis Lifts and Morgan & Fone.

The success of the apprenticeship scheme was recognised when John Prescott paid a visit to Westcroft 7, a mixed housing development, which is being developed to help provide affordable housing and regenerate communities in Milton Keynes.

On site the Deputy Prime Minister met trainee carpenters and builders including students at Milton Keynes College, who are receiving practical construction training through Bedfordshire Pilgrims Housing Association and Avebury International.

bpha also offers the chance for school leavers to learn on the job by offering placements for Modern Apprentices. This scheme helps young people gain vocational qualifications while earning.

Jaspal Kaur, bpha's first Modern Apprentice, recently successfully completely her two-year programme and has been nominated to receive the Modern Apprenticeship (NVQ Lever 3 in Administration) Programme Award for the student who has demonstrated Outstanding Progression. As well as attending Bedford College, Jaspal worked in our New Business and Development Team as a trainee and has subsequently been promoted to the role of Assistant Administrator.

bpha currently has two other Modern Apprentices nearing the end of their qualification, both of whom have successfully been promoted to more responsible positions whilst still carrying out their qualification and training.