AEB subcontract provision for Construction Skills Training

Significant growth in housing and infrastructure developments in the West Midlands (including HS2) have triggered labour shortages in the local area.  A CITB Construction skills gap analysis for the West Midlands Combined Authority area identified employer-based plant operative training is urgently required to address these skilled labour shortages.

This analysis identified 83% of construction workers in the West Midlands are interviewed on a site located within the same region as their current residence.  The WMCA funding is split into key geographical areas and to support disadvantaged candidates in Solihull and the surrounding areas training must be offered within close proximity of Solihull College and University Centre.

Key objectives for this delivery outlined in the WMCA funding rules state that the role of providers is to "deliver better value for money in terms of progression (within providers and onto College), reduce 'churn' generated through employability programmes (in-work training provision) and provide clearer access points for individuals at community level".

The College requires a subcontract partner with experience of WMCA AEB, funding and audit rules, and with CSCS and CPCS accreditation to deliver Level 1 and 2 Construction Skills training in a simulated live environment to enhance learner employability in the Solihull Borough ​and the WMCA region.

The subcontract partner will be responsible for the sourcing of, training of and supporting into employment of 450 learners (anticipated annual volume) between 01 August and 31 July in cohorts of between 10-12.

It is essential that the subcontractor partner can evidence sustainable employment for at least 50% of learners at 13-weeks employment. Further to this requirement the subcontractor must also be able to evidence proven experience of engagement with disadvantaged candidates (unemployed; recently redundant; on zero hours or low pay contracts; ex-offenders; and other under represented groups).

The subcontract relationship will support the Construction Gateway in Solihull operate for a minimum three-year term with annual review (contract will be subject to ongoing satisfactory performance and funding availability).  Additional information: Please refer to the following independent sources:

CITB, Construction skills gap analysis for the West Midlands Combined Authority area. May 2018 see www.wmca.org.uk/media/2235/construct… ↗

For further information regarding the Construction Gateway please see beta.wmca.org.uk/in-my-area/projects/… ↗

WMCA AEB funding rules - www.wmca.org.uk/media/4196/25-august… ↗ Note: 21-22 rules are expected for release in July but no major changes to strategy are anticipated.

The intention to award to RMF was approved by Governors on 27.05.21 subject to completion of satisfactory due diligence and WMCA approval.

A contract will not be entered into by the College before 05.07.2021 to enable any valid challenges to this award to be made.