We continue to work with Sandwell schools to build and support their music offer. It is our goal
to encourage every school in Sandwell to work with us, so that there is an equity of opportunity
for children to learn a musical instrument during their time at school.
Supporting the Next Generation of Construction Professionals
The UK’s ability to deliver the homes, schools, transport infrastructure and regeneration projects needed for future economic growth depends on attracting and developing a new generation of skilled construction professionals. Yet the sector faces a significant workforce challenge, with more than 250,000 additional construction workers needed nationally by 2028, while nearly a third of employers report difficulties recruiting suitably skilled staff. Across the West Midlands, demand is growing even faster, with construction job postings increasing by almost 50% in the past year. Through its industry-leading careers programmes, SIPS Education is helping to bridge this gap by connecting young people with employers, inspiring future talent and creating clear pathways into one of the region’s most important and fastest-growing sectors.
At SIPS, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to discover inspiring career pathways and develop the confidence to achieve their ambitions. Through our continued partnership with the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Careers Hubs, schools, employers and training providers, we are proud to be playing a leading role in strengthening construction career pathways for young people across the West Midlands.
Opening Doors to Opportunity
Over the past year, our Work Related Learning team has helped deliver the Boosting Skills Pathways in Construction programme, bringing together schools and some of the region’s leading construction and infrastructure employers to provide meaningful careers education experiences.
The programme has included:
These activities are designed to give young people a real understanding of the diverse opportunities available within the construction and built environment sectors.
Reaching Thousands of Learners
The impact of the programme is already significant. During 2025/26:
Working closely with construction businesses has enabled learners to hear directly from professionals, explore apprenticeship routes and gain valuable insights into one of the West Midlands’ priority growth sectors.
Supporting Schools and Employers
A key strength of the programme has been the collaboration between schools and industry partners.
Teachers participating in dedicated Teacher Encounter activities have reported gaining valuable insight into the breadth of opportunities available within construction, helping them better connect curriculum learning with real-world careers.
Employers have also recognised the value of the initiative. Feedback from participating organisations highlighted how the programme has strengthened community engagement, supported social value commitments and created meaningful connections with schools and learners.
Looking Ahead: Year Two
SIPS is now supporting the next phase of the programme, which will build on the strong foundations established during the first year. Planned activities include:
The programme will also continue to focus on helping young people understand the wide range of careers available within construction, addressing skills shortages and supporting employers to engage with future talent.
Boosting Skills Pathways in Construction and the Built Environment is a West Midlands Combined Authority Careers Hub funded opportunity via the national Boosting Skills Pathways initiative, delivered by SIPS
Building the Future Together
Alongside this work, SIPS is supporting the Building the Future Alternative Provision Programme, a fully funded seven-week construction careers and mentoring initiative for Year 9-11 students in alternative provision settings across the West Midlands. The programme combines school-based activities with visits to universities, colleges and live construction sites, alongside mentoring from industry professionals. The Building the Future Alternative Provision programme is being delivered by Errol Lawson, Building The Future Awards Founder.
Through initiatives such as these, SIPS continues to connect education and industry, helping young people develop confidence, understand career pathways and access exciting opportunities in sectors that are vital to the region’s future growth.
Together with our partners, we are helping to build a stronger workforce, stronger communities and brighter futures for young people across the West Midlands.
