Laing O’Rourke opens ‘first-of-a-kind’ MMC training centre 

Laing O’Rourke, in collaboration with Barnsley College and T3 Training & Development, has opened a modern methods of construction (MMC) training facility. 

Believed to be a UK first, the Modern Methods of Construction Training Centre has been part-funded by the Local Skills Improvement Fund.

Learners will have access to the equipment and skills needed to work with large-scale modular components. The trainee assembly specialists will learn how to deliver sections of some of the UK’s largest infrastructure and construction projects.

The purpose-built facility is the first in the UK to offer a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Construction Assembly installation – approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education in 2019.

According to Laing O’Rourke, the new facility will boost digital and technical skills across its directly employed workforce of 4,500 people. 

Peter Lyons, director at Laing O’Rourke, said: “We are proud and excited to launch this first-of-a-kind training facility with Barnsley College and T3 Training & Development, and to have created a training course that will help accelerate change across our sector. 

“Not only will it enhance the skills of our current directly employed workforce, but it will also attract a more diverse range of people to consider a career in construction.” 

Lyons added that the wider use of digital technologies and MMC is the only way to transform productivity and create better work and careers for people. 

“It’s a change we need to make to ensure we can deliver the essential infrastructure the country needs, and which underpins our quality of life,” he said.

The MMC centre’s first cohort is expected to begin training in the New Year.