Winvic targets social value goals with new training programme  

The initiative provides students with up to five days of construction industry insights, gives them practical experience related to their studies, and develops their soft skills.  

It also helps Winvic, suppliers and clients to meet strategic social value goals, while it supports further education providers to meet their enrichment activity targets. 

The first Winvic Enrichment Programme is being delivered in collaboration with client Prologis UK at The Hub at DIRFT. The new training and meeting facility on the Logistics Park is available for occupiers and local businesses to use. 

A typical programme includes a site tour; an overview of contractor, subcontractor and developer roles; and health and safety awareness training. Training also covers CV writing, and interview and presentation techniques.  

Kayleigh Merritt, Winvic’s talent development manager, said: “We have been working to shape the Winvic Enrichment Programme for some time with subcontractors, clients and colleges, so it’s exciting to see it coming to life with students already giving wonderful feedback.  

“Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do at Winvic and our experience in delivering social value activities illustrates that you can always do more and benefit more people when you work together.  

The Winvic Enrichment Programme supports the objectives of our clients and building occupiers, further education providers – offering numerous qualifications – and students who want to be work ready, armed with practical experience and accomplished soft skills.” 

The first programme has been tailored with Northampton College to meet the needs of 16 BTEC Engineering students who are in their first and second years of study. Sessions include hands-on setting out equipment training, a practical lesson on concrete mixes, and a demonstration of concrete slab pouring inside an industrial warehouse.   

David Mellor, director – development management, Prologis UK, added: “Early engagement with students from Northampton College has been great fun and we’re delighted to have been able to support Winvic with their initiative here at The Hub at DIRFT.  

“Students have come away from their days with us enthused about the engineering opportunities we presented – whilst developing key skills to support their employment application process.” 

Further education providers interested in the programme should contact training@winvic.co.uk.