Morgan Sindall opens skills academy in East Kent

Morgan Sindall Construction has opened a new skills academy, in partnership with East Kent Colleges Group.

The Morgan Sindall Academy at EKC Canterbury College will provide skills, knowledge and training for the next generation of construction professionals. 

The academy will support students through their T-Levels into training and work placements, with support from Morgan Sindall’s supply chain to connect them to employment opportunities.

Students will undertake T-Levels in design, surveying, and planning for construction through a combination of workshop sessions, theory tests, work experience and industry site visits. 

A wider memorandum of understanding will see Morgan Sindall Construction and East Kent Colleges Group work together on a range of projects to benefit students across East Kent, developing their understanding of the built environment and the skills required for careers in the sector. 

Stephen Paine, senior operations manager for Morgan Sindall in the Southern Home Counties and head of the academy, attended EKC Canterbury College before beginning his career in construction.

“It means a lot to bring the Morgan Sindall Academy to EKC Canterbury College, and just to be back on the grounds,” Paine said. 

“There’s a real skills shortage of young people in the industry, and with the right support and guidance, we hope to help fill that gap and show students the incredible opportunities that are available to them.”

Paul Sayers, chief information and strategy officer at EKC Group, added: “The Morgan Sindall Academy is a fantastic demonstration of what technical education is all about and how colleges and employers can work in partnership to really benefit the students, whilst providing a future workforce. 

“We’ve got the Morgan Sindall team of experts coming in to talk to the students about a range of key topics, from surveying and design right through to project management, allowing them to gain the skills they need to thrive in the industry.”