Sunderland and Middlesbrough leaders meet apprentices

Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland Council, and Middlesbrough’s elected mayor, Chris Cooke, were joined by Persimmon apprentices.

Councillor Mordey met the young workers at the St Michaels Way development in Sunderland, while Mayor Cooke visited the Orchid Gardens site in Middlesbrough.Sundeland Council leader meets apprentices at St Michaels Way development (Image: Persimmon)

Mayor Cooke said: “It was great to talk to some local young people about their training and how they feel it has allowed them to set the foundations for a future career in the construction industry.

“I would encourage anybody to consider an apprenticeship.

“They provide a combination of both classroom learning and on-site experience, which is an excellent way to learn your craft.”

Councillor Mordey said: “It was fantastic to meet apprentices at the St Michaels Way site and see their skills in action.

“Apprenticeships are vital for developing our future workforce, offering young people the chance to earn, learn, and build rewarding careers.”

Mark Whelan, managing director of Persimmon Teesside, said: “We’re always looking at new ways to inspire young people into the industry and I hope that more of the young people we engage with will consider one of the varied, exciting career paths that construction and housebuilding has to offer.”