Sheffield Hallam building partnerships

The built environment sector continues to face severe challenges in the current economic climate, but by working together with industry in order to help create resilient professionals, Sheffield Hallam University are working towards playing a vital role in its stabilisation and growth.

We have a strong history of working with industry and a reputation for delivering practical degree programmes and work-ready graduates. They have a wealth of experience in producing innovative, vocationally relevant and professionally focused courses, and work with industry partners to develop the next generation of property and construction professionals.

Suzanne Chandler, graduate and apprentice recruitment and development manager at Barratt Developments plc, says, "We are now expanding our apprentice programmes to ensure the emphasis is on management and team leadership as well as the traditional trade routes. We're in the process of designing and developing a unique construction foundation degree and a top-up BSc Honours degree programme for the house-building industry, in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University, in order to attract those who wish to gain their degree while they work."

The degree programme will be offered to current site managers, too, to help ensure that they are equipped with the necessary specialist sustainable house-building skills.

Construction company Kier also wanted to improve the training they offer their workforce, so they contacted us and together created new courses specifically for their staff.

Kier sought to develop their employees’ knowledge and encourage progression in the company. The courses were tailor-made to suit the Kier’s specific requirements, using case studies and examples from the workplace, and encouraging group discussion and sharing ideas among staff.

Kay Rogan, foundation degree manager at Kier said; ‘Our relationship with Sheffield Hallam is very much a partnership. We work closely with University staff to continually improve the programme and to ensure the process runs smoothly. The programme has proved to be successful and highly respected within the Kier group, with the individuals making a real difference at work. The combination of real work experience and academic study is enabling them to have an input to the success of the business right from the early stages of their careers.’