Success Story: Skills Academy Learners Excel on CORE Special Projects Site in Barnsley

Recently, the Marketing and Employer Engagement team, Michelle Reece and Richard Trigg, respectively, alongside the Core Special Projects team, celebrated a significant milestone. Three of our dedicated Skills Academy learners have joined the CORE Special Projects Ltd team on their new site works in Barnsley. This exciting project involves constructing new roundabouts on Higham Common Road and Barugh Green Road, which will provide northern and southern access to the new proposed mixed-use development.


Meeting Martin Burton: The Experienced Supervisor

Upon arrival at the site, we were greeted by Martin Burton, Supervisor at CORE Special Projects Ltd. With over four and a half years at CORE, Martin's career, as a time-served bricklayer, spans several reputable companies, including Bowmer and Kirkland, Interserve, North Midland Construction, and the Local Authority. His semi-retired status now sees him leveraging his expertise on the Barnsley project, having returned from Ireland to ensure continuity.


The Journey of Our Learners

Our Associate Tutor, Rebecca Carey, played a pivotal role in recommending Samuel (Sammy) Mutandiro and Josh Okeke to Richard Trigg for our new Skills Bootcamp in Civil Engineering and Groundworks, while Danny (Dan) Sheard was highlighted for his exceptional abilities through our Worksop Skills Academy.


Our highly experienced Business Development Manager, Julie Anne Howard from our CSP Chesterfield branch, brought Lee Ferraday, Operations Director at Core Specialist Projects, to our attention, as the company sought new talent to develop their groundworks and plant initiatives. Lee personally visited our facilities at Rotherham Skills Academy, where the first cohort were on programme. After meeting six of our learners, Lee chose the three now thriving on site: Sammy, Josh, and Dan. Their dedication was evident, as all three started on-site even before completing his course.


Josh told us that he met and became good friends with Sammy at the Sheffield Skills Academy and was taught by the amazing Becky. He said ”Becky helped us get onto the get onto the Groundworks programme, and we haven't looked back since! There is a lot of graft involved initially, but I’m enjoying every minute as the team is so helpful and supportive.”


On-Site Experiences and Mentorship

Ben Watts, with six years of groundwork experience, has been instrumental in teaching Josh about drainage and road formations. His journey from a labourer to a ganger supervisor and machine driver is a testament to the importance of understanding every aspect of the job. Ben emphasises the significance of precision and experience in groundwork.


Carl Stevens, Sam's mentor, praises Sammy for his willingness to learn and tackle any task, saying that his confidence and dedication are critical factors for success in this field.


Danny Sheard's Unique Path

Danny Sheard brings a unique background to the team, holding a Masters in Games Art. His interest in engineering and his passion for 3D drawings and models have been valuable assets on site. Danny's versatility, from driving dumpers to pursuing engineering, showcases the transferable skills and diverse opportunities within the construction industry. He enthused that “the on-site experience has been immensely positive”. Dan enjoys his role and appreciates the team's support. Saying he has been “gaining hands-on experience, working with plant and learning from seasoned professionals.”



















Gratitude and Bright Futures

The learners express immense gratitude for the opportunities provided by the Skills Academies and the dedicated staff. Their experiences on-site have not only honed their technical skills but also built their confidence and broadened their horizons.


Sammy, Josh, and Dan are well on their way to promising careers, thanks to the robust training and support from both the Skills Academy and the wonderful team at CORE Special Projects Ltd. We look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success in the construction industry.

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