HS2 undergo huge recruitment drive to mark National Apprenticeship Week

Credit: HS2

HS2 is showing its commitment to building the future, the theme for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, by recruiting for 80 apprenticeship vacancies that will go live this week, with more to follow in the weeks and months ahead. HS2 and its construction partners are seeking to expand the 20,000 strong workforce already in place delivering the first two phases of the project from London, through the Midlands and on to Crewe.

“HS2 is a once-in-a-lifetime investment driven not only by the Government’s commitment to boost transport across the nation and level up the North and the Midlands but to create long lasting, highly skilled jobs across the UK,” Andrew Stephenson, HS2 Minister, said. “825 apprentices less than 18 months into construction is an incredible achievement that will be invaluable in plugging the skills gap across the UK and helping the nation build back better.”

HS2 Ltd is recruiting for 22 new apprentices, with opportunities based in Warwickshire, Birmingham, Milton Keynes and London. The Level 3 and 4 programmes are being offered across a broad range of subject areas from Surveying Technician to Cyber Security Technologist and Commercial Procurement and Supply.

HS2 has committed to creating 2,000 apprenticeship opportunities during the life span of the project and with 825 new starters already on board, less than 18 months after main works construction began, it is well placed to smash its target.

“Reaching the 825-apprentice milestone so early in the project’s delivery is a fantastic achievement and a sign of our commitment to ensure that HS2 leaves a lasting skills legacy,” Mark Thurston, former apprentice and CEO at HS2 Ltd said. “Our continued investment in future talent is helping to address the UK’s skills gap and ensuring we have a highly-skilled workforce in place to deliver HS2 and major infrastructure projects of the future.”

The variety of apprenticeship opportunities available reflects the diversity that a career in construction can offer, making it the ideal choice for those starting out in their career or looking for a change in direction. The chance to earn and learn is an attractive proposition for many, and the thousands of applications HS2 receives each year shows that it’s not just school-leavers searching for apprenticeship opportunities.

“The chance to play a part in delivering Europe’s biggest infrastructure project is a huge draw and the number of applications we receive for our early careers programmes continues to grow each year,” Karen Davis, Talent Manager for HS2, said. “Our apprenticeships provide a fully-funded training pathway, allowing people to gain valuable work experience whilst studying for a professional qualification and learning from the very best in the industry.”