THE new £6.2 million Ribblehead Building for Construction and Engineering is the latest addition to Craven College’s accommodation portfolio and is dedicated to developing the skills needed to support the construction industry.

At the moment, some companies are struggling to find the right people to grow and develop their business after a significant number of skilled personnel left the industry during the recession.

The new Ribblehead building - which was officially opened by MP Julian Smith earlier this month - will give a huge boost to the industry helping develop talent across a range of craft skills, including brickwork, painting and decorating, plastering, bench and site woodwork and joinery.

With new well-equipped workshops and all the tools, machinery and materials required for each trade, skilled tutors are able to share a wealth of skills, knowledge and understanding with students,

Topics covered include planning, estimating, building methods, construction technology, health and safety and how the industry is structured.

Adli Rowland, from Wigglesworth, a level three carpentry apprentice, said: “I knew I wanted to do carpentry and joinery so after I left school it was great to get work as an apprentice for a local joiner.

"I’ve done three years at Craven College now and these new facilities are very good and everyone is very helpful. I’ve been able to develop all the skills I need to go with my job and to learn the theory which helps me know why things are done the way they are.”

Brickwork apprentice Jordan Stephens from Silsden added: "We are taught in a great new workshop, in a relaxed atmosphere. We learn what to do and then get on with it. No stress.”

Tutor Steve Syers has worked in industry for over 30 years both as an employee and self-employed.

He said: “I have worked on many different projects from new builds, renovations and restoration work using new and traditional methods. I have now taught at Craven College for nearly 10 years, teaching a wide variety of students from age 15 to 75.

"The new Ribblehead facilities are excellent and meet the needs of the students and the awarding bodies. The facilities continue to help us develop our courses, to teach new skills and use new products that come into the industry.”

Principal Robert Bellfield said: “As a college with a long standing commitment to serve its community it’s always pleasing when a project like our new Ribblehead Building for Construction and Engineering is not only successful but brings additional benefits to others in the area.

"Right from the start of the project we were determined to provide training facilities which would benefit local employers and provide a quality, skilled, productive workforce who can contribute to national initiatives in building new homes and businesses. This development really embraces the inclusive values which Craven College has always striven to deliver over the years.”

“On behalf of all the Governors, staff and students at Craven College I would like to express appreciation for the high standards and professional support, architectural design and construction skills which have delivered the new Ribblehead building to such a high environmental specification. It is a great asset for Craven College.”