Story Homes invests in apprenticeships to support local businesses and tackle skills shortages

At Story Homes, we’re committed to supporting local businesses and investing in the next generation of construction talent. That’s why we’ve welcomed seven new apprentices into roles across our business and subcontractor network, helping them gain valuable skills and hands-on experience while supporting the future of the industry.

Four apprentices have joined trusted subcontractor businesses working on our developments in Cumbria, with us funding 50% of each apprentice’s salary over their two-year apprenticeship. We’ve also supported our subcontractor partners through the process of applying for apprenticeship levy funding to cover their training and college fees.

The initiative aims to help local businesses invest in new talent while addressing future skills shortages, with subcontractors selected based on our established working relationships and the skills needed for future developments.

The four apprentices are gaining hands-on experience across two of our developments in Cumbria:

• Harry Laybourne, a bricklaying apprentice employed by D Wilson Bricklaying Ltd, and George Temple, a bricklaying apprentice employed by M Williamson Construction Ltd, are both working at The Fairways, our development of 194 homes in Penrith.
• Ollie Jardine, a bricklaying apprentice employed by Michael Hesser Bricklaying, and Logan Johnstone, a joinery apprentice employed by C A Story Ltd, are both working at Scotby Grove, our development of 112 homes in Scotby, near Carlisle.

Hayley Blair, Operations Director at Story Homes Cumbria & Scotland, said:

“Our subcontractors play a vital role in delivering our developments, and we want to support them in developing their future workforce.”

“By sharing the cost of apprenticeships, we’re helping local businesses invest in new talent while giving young people the opportunity to learn valuable skills. It’s a win-win for our subcontractors, the apprentices and the wider construction industry.”

We have also welcomed three apprentices directly into the business: Luke Marshall, a Quantity Surveying Apprentice in our Cumbria and Scotland region; Samuel Bentley, a Group Marketing and Communications Apprentice; and Callum Oliver, a Business Administration Apprentice in our North East region.

Paul Eilles, Head of HR at Story Homes, added:

“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to bring new talent into the industry, and we’re delighted to welcome seven apprentices into roles across our business and subcontractor network.

“From skilled trades to professional and office-based roles, housebuilding offers a huge range of career opportunities. We’re proud to help people take their first steps and develop skills for rewarding, long-term careers.”