Newcastle College Secures £40,000 for Construction Programme

Newcastle College has received a £40,000 donation from the foundation of national housebuilder Persimmon to support a scholarship construction programme for young people.

Named after Duncan Davidson, the late founder of Persimmon, the new programme will offer young people an opportunity to gain structured vocational training across a variety of construction trades, supported by a weekly training bursary.

Learners who successfully complete the course will achieve accredited certification and can progress to further training at the Persimmon Academy which opened at the College’s Rye Hill campus last year.

They can also apply for apprenticeships with Persimmon Homes, opening pathways into sustainable employment.

The Newcastle United Foundation is also lending their expertise to support the scholarship, by providing access to specialist expertise and tailored assistance, ensuring that learners are supported not only in their academic journey, but also in preparing for future career opportunities.

David Laycock, Director of Engineering, Energy, Built Environment and Transport at Newcastle College, added:

“This bursary not only supports learners with their day-to-day costs, but also gives them access to high-quality training, equipment and enrichment opportunities, which prepare them for successful, long-term careers in the industry.”

Dame Chi Onwurah MP, who helped open the Skills Academy last year said:

“The launch of this new scholarship will provide a range of exciting opportunities for local young people of all backgrounds.

“The Skills Academy at Newcastle College is a fantastic facility providing a great place for learners to gain the skills they need.”

Anthony Vigor, Chair of the Persimmon Charitable Foundation, said:

“By combining financial assistance with practical training and enrichment, we hope to help participants build confidence, gain skills, and improve their future prospects.”

Lee Smith, Senior Community Manager at the Newcastle United Foundation said:

“By providing this structured support, the Scholarship reaffirms its commitment to empowering learners to achieve both academic distinction and professional success.”

As an anchor institution in the North East, developing a skilled workforce for the future of the region is at the heart of Newcastle College.

As the region’s largest college, recruiting across North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA),  it plays a pivotal role in meeting the skills needs in the region’s key sectors. 

It works closely with employers to develop curriculum that meets the needs of industry, and its partnership with Persimmon aims to address skills gaps in the construction industry and provide the skilled workforce of the future.

The Persimmon Academy provides bricklaying, joinery and roofing provision for apprentices at the College, and supports the development of the next generation of skilled tradespeople in the North East.