Morganstone hosts work placement from Pembrokeshire Youth

Morganstone have played host to trainee bricklayer Adam Paddick, who is currently working on site in Thornton Road, Milford Haven as part of his work placement with the Cam Nesa Pembrokeshire Youth.

The 59-unit housing development is being built by Morganstone for client ATEB Group (formally Pembrokeshire Housing Association). ATEB Group focuses on delivering high-quality affordable homes for rural and urban communities. One of ATEB’s visions is to support communities with being self-sufficient. The placement of Adam at our Thornton Road development certainly supports this vision, as he is able to gain work experience locally.

Cam Nesa is a £5.7million project supported by the European Social Fund which works with 16 to 24 years old in West Wales by providing them with a range of workshops, employability opportunities and tailored personal support for youngsters aged 16 to 24 not currently in education, work or training. The project also provides youngsters with the opportunity to undertake Sports Leadership courses and other accredited courses. The project is led by Pembrokeshire County Council and delivered in partnership with fellow local authorities.

Adam was introduced to Morganstone by Paul Falzon, of Cyfle Building Skills who work in close partnership with both Morganstone Cam Nesa. Cyfle Building Skills is a Multi Award Winner Regional Shared Apprenticeship Scheme that currently employs over 140 apprentices and has employed 500+ shared apprentices to date.

Adam has been mentored on site since October by Steve Hazelby from SS Construction, who is very impressed with his progress to date. Alongside learning how to be a bricklayer, Adam has also gained experience as a labourer.

Project Coordinator Christopher Weaver added, “Adam has thrived during his placement and has a positive attitude towards his role and working life. By having hands on site experience in both brickwork and labouring, Adam is now better prepared to undertake his future college placement in brickwork.”

The Federation of Master Builders reports that nearly two thirds of small to medium sized construction companies struggle to source and hire skilled bricklayers, which is one of the key trades within the industry. However, encouragingly the Federation also reports that experienced bricklayers can earn higher wages than its fellow counterpart trades.

Community Engagement Manager Nia Collard said, “It is important for Morganstone to support work placements and apprenticeships from the areas in which we work. It is encouraging to see Adam enjoying his placement and to receive such positive feedback from his mentors, which bodes well for his future employability.”

Cam Nesa Employer Liaison Officer Fran Wisby stated, “Adam is gaiing valuable experience and skills with a well-established firm. I am extremely proud of Adam, his commitment and hard work is clear to see. Adam has proven he has great working ethics, which can be transferable into his future career.”