New Agreement to provide more student placements

The University of Wolverhampton has signed a 15 year agreement with a housing provider and two construction firms to provide training and work opportunities for both students and tenants.

The Memorandum of Understanding agreement between the University, Wolverhampton Homes, Bullock Construction and Wates Living Space was signed last week.

The agreement will see the creation of new employability opportunities for students, graduates and communities at all levels within the City of Wolverhampton.

It is underpinned by the recent framework construction deal with the two construction companies worth £250m over 15 years to improve thousands more homes in the city, as well as take on apprentices.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: “It’s very important we make a contribution to the economy. Our role is to find a way to hone talent across the area, giving people an opportunity and leading them into graduate-level employment.

“Nine out of ten of our students go on to jobs or further training or education six months after they graduate.

“What they need and crave is practical work skills and the chance to have a head-start to get them ready and prepared for the world of work. I’m really proud of this agreement and what it can offer to our students and the wider community.”

Lesley Roberts, Chief Executive of Wolverhampton Homes, said: “This is a really big boost and big commitment to our city and I’m really excited that we’re part of it.

“We’re passionate about helping our tenants to find training, skills and local job opportunities – and this agreement with the two construction firms and the university, alongside our own LEAP apprenticeship programme, is a big step in the right direction.”

Paul Hampton, a Principal Lecturer within the Faculty of Science and Engineering helped co-ordinate the agreement. He said: “I wish to thank the directors of all three organisations for their tireless contribution towards making this agreement possible.

“I look forward to a long and continued relationship and a further continuation of workplace and employability opportunities, all of which better prepare students and graduates and members of our community for the world of work”.

The University currently have over ten full-time placement students working with the framework partners and further levels of engagement are planned for 2014.

Picture: Chief Executive of Wolverhampton Homes, Lesley Roberts and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, signing the MOU.

ENDS

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