For several months, both organisations have been working hard behind the scenes to set up Cheshire & Warrington’s first dedicated groundworks course that we hope will shape the housebuilding landscape for Warrington and beyond for the next decade.
By September 2025, the course will become a reality for a set number of students attending the Winwick Road based college. The programme will provide apprentices with hands-on experience delivering groundworks at Peel Garden Village. This major housing development in Warrington will see the construction of 1200 new homes, with PAS named as the civil engineering contractor who will deliver years of work.
Fraser Linaker, Managing Director of PAS NW LTD, said:
"As a Warrington company, we wanted to work with a Warrington college to develop the next generation of groundworkers right here in our hometown.
“We’ve been working closely with Warrington & Vale Royal College for several months to make this programme happen, and this is just the start. We’re not just looking at short-term skills gaps - we are building a long-term pipeline of skilled talent. The Training Centre will be a game-changer, giving young people the facilities and experience they need to succeed in this industry.
“As part of PAS’ ongoing commitment to social value and sustainability, coupled with our promise to Vistry, we’ll provide a purpose-built space with welfare units, plant and tools, where apprentices can develop their skills in a realistic, hands-on environment.”
Nichola Newton, CEO and Principal of Warrington & Vale Royal College, added:
"We are delighted to be partnering with PAS NW LTD on this fantastic initiative. This apprenticeship programme provides local students with industry-recognised training while working on a live construction project.
“The addition of a dedicated Training Centre is a further step in creating meaningful, long-term career pathways for young people in Warrington. It’s an exciting time for skills development in the region."
The 18-month course is just the beginning of PAS’s long-term commitment to investing in Warrington’s workforce and skills development. Students will combine ‘block’ study time at Warrington & Vale Royal College’s state-of-the-art Construction & Civil Engineering Academy (CCEA), complemented by hands-on construction experience with PAS and guidance from the business’ dedicated mentors.
The college’s CCEA, located at the Warrington campus, has recently benefited from a £3.6 million investment through the Town Deal. The facility offers high-quality training and access to industry-leading resources, with a strong emphasis on advancing digital technologies within the construction and engineering sectors.
The apprenticeship programme will focus on building the 6 Common Industry Skills essential for success in groundworks:
• Technical knowledge
• Practical skills
• Problem-solving
• Communication skills
• Health & Safety awareness
• Time management
To connect with local talent, PAS will be hosting an Open Day in conjunction with Warrington & Vale Royal College’s Apprenticeship Director, Andrew Atkin, and Apprenticeship Manager, Jade Wilkinson, where potential apprentices can learn more about the programme, meet industry professionals, and discover the exciting career opportunities available in construction.
