West Bromwich-based Star Scaffolding is making waves in the construction industry, celebrating three major accolades for its outstanding Apprenticeship training programme. The company’s commitment to nurturing talent and bridging the skills gap has earned it recognition both locally and nationally.
Celebrating award-winning success
At the Ladder for the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards 2024, Star Scaffolding proudly took home the Medium Employer of the Year Award, recognising its impactful collaboration with the Construction College Midlands, part of Walsall College. The prestigious awards, organised by the Express & Star in partnership with the Ladder for the Black Country, celebrate excellence in apprenticeships across the region.
In addition to this triumph, apprentice Harrison Mapley was named Construction and Property Apprentice of the Year at the same event. Harrison’s achievements didn’t stop there he was also recognised as the runner-up in the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) ScaffEx24 Scaffolding Excellence Awards.
Investing in talent and the future
Star Scaffolding’s dedication to its workforce is evident in its robust Apprenticeship programme, which provides apprentices with vital skills, knowledge, and behaviours to thrive in the construction industry. The company invests over £20,000 annually in training and development, ensuring its team has access to high-quality support and opportunities.
Emma Chard, Skills and Training Manager at Star Scaffolding, shared her pride in the programme’s success:
“We nurture our young people by providing a solid support network that encourages all apprentices to learn valuable skills, knowledge and behaviours. To be recognised for our training is a testament to the dedication of all employees.”
Emma also highlighted the importance of apprenticeships to the company’s growth:
“Star’s apprenticeship drive is an essential part of our growth strategy as an expanding business. Educating our team is crucial to our success, and we’re proud to invest in the future of our workforce.”
Apprenticeship success stories
Harrison Mapley’s journey is a shining example of how Star Scaffolding supports its apprentices. Having joined in late 2021, Harrison recently completed his apprenticeship and is eager to continue growing his skills:
“I really enjoyed doing an apprenticeship with Star. It taught me all the essential skills I need to work in the scaffolding industry while earning, and I now want to undertake more training to help me progress further,” said Harrison.
He credited the company’s mentorship and guidance as instrumental in his development, adding that the recent recognition motivates him to strive for excellence in his career.
A commitment to inclusivity
Star Scaffolding is committed to creating accessible opportunities for all, including neurodivergent individuals and ex-offenders. By fostering an inclusive environment, the company ensures that its workforce reflects the diversity of the community it serves.
This dedication is further demonstrated through the annual Leon Bell Awards, where Star celebrates its apprentices’ achievements. In 2024, Luke Bayliss was named Scaffolder of the Year, Conna Denholm received Trainee Scaffolder of the Year, and Arron Colmain was recognised as Apprentice of the Year. Each winner received £200 in vouchers as part of the celebration.
Building a skilled workforce
Star Scaffolding’s investment in its Apprenticeship programme is not just about developing skilled workers; it’s about building a sustainable future for the construction industry. The company’s efforts are bridging critical skills gaps while empowering apprentices to achieve long-term success.
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