Trent & Dove develops its future workforce with apprenticeships

Local housing association, Trent & Dove is supporting the development of future talent within the housing sector by taking on four new apprentices within the organisation, in partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC).

The apprentices – Owen Satchwell, Ethan Samrai, Joe Grummett, and Freya Harvey – are benefitting from a structured programme that combines academic learning with practical, on-the-job training across various departments at Trent & Dove's head office in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire. They are gaining valuable industry experience while studying towards a Level 3 Business Administration qualification delivered by BSDC.

This collaboration reflects a strategic response to challenges highlighted at the recent Housing Community Summit, hosted by the National Housing Federation and the Chartered Institute of Housing. The event underscored the urgent need to develop a skilled and resilient workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the housing sector.

Rob Goodyer Head of Business Development at BSDC said: “We are delighted to expand our partnership with Trent & Dove and deliver this apprenticeship programme. Initiatives like this are vital in creating career pathways for young people and addressing the critical skills needs of sectors such as housing. By working with employers and equipping learners with practical skills, we are collectively investing in the future workforce.”

Ursula Bennion, Chief Executive of Trent & Dove, added: “We are delighted to welcome our new apprentices and to invest in their futures by equipping them with the essential skills needed to succeed in the workplace. With the housing sector facing a growing skills gap, initiatives such as this are crucial in developing the next generation of skilled professionals.”

Speaking about his apprenticeship, Joe said: “I wanted to build up my skills, but university didn’t appeal to me. I wanted hands-on experience, and an apprenticeship is a great opportunity to gain experience while working towards a qualification that will build a strong foundation for my future career. I’m excited to have the option to move around the business to get an all-around insight to the different areas at Trent & Dove.”