Plymouth Community Homes

The Housing Association has joined up with City College, offering one week’s work for up to 36 students over phase periods. All the young people have been studying trades including plumbing and carpentry.

The young people have been doing their work experience in the organisation’s Property Services team, where they have been able to learn hands-on some of the basics of their trade by working with skilled and experienced technicians.

Dale Dyer (18) has been studying for a diploma in carpentry at City College, since September 2009 having already completed his foundation course. Work experience was an essential part of his course and he has just qualified. He wants to get a job in Plymouth as soon as he can.

Dale says: "I’ve always wanted to be a chippie and this work experience has really helped me build my skills. I’ve learnt a whole range of skills which is good – from roofing to mixing cement, so I can be confident in a whole range of different skills."

Dave Farley, Strategic Services Manager with Plymouth Community Homes said: "Our priority is residents, but we are about more than bricks and mortar. Supporting the future of Plymouth is important to us. In these uncertain times, we will do whatever we can to help young people learn their trade and get jobs in the city. Our highly trained staff are ideally placed to offer this support."

Plymouth Community Homes and Plymouth City College will be coming together again in the new academic year to offer work experience to more young people. They also plan to offer more formal apprenticeships for young people across the city.