Companies signed up to participate in the new Diploma in Construction & the Built Environment, a vocational alternative to GCSE and ‘A’ levels that includes practical experience with participating companies as well as school and college study, are to receive a logo to promote their participation in the scheme.

The first company to receive recognition for their commitment to helping develop the next generation in the industry are Wates. They received the Recognition Scheme Mark that they can display on their stationery and literature last month (September) at their headquarters in Leatherhead, Surrey.

The Diploma in C started in September as a vocational alternative to GCSE and ‘A’ levels (see the report on training in the August issue of NSS). The Foundation Diploma is equivalent to five GCSEs grade D-G. The Higher Diploma is equivalent to seven GCSEs grade A*-C. And the advanced Diploma is equivalent to three-and-a-half ‘A’ Levels grade A*-E.

There are 44 consortia so far involved in the scheme across the country. They are led by schools and colleges working in conjunction with local firms.

Firms can determine their own level of participation in the scheme and as well as helping youngsters, involvement gives them the opportunity to network and raise their profile within their local communities. It also develops new recruitment channels.

ConstructionSkills would be delighted to sign up more companies to participate. For more information see the website at the address below.