A NEW apprentice will get the chance to work on York’s landmark Derwenthorpe energy-efficient housing development.

David Wilson Homes is taking on an apprentice in support of the York Apprenticeship Challenge, to help it with the 540-house project.

The York Apprenticeship Challenge, led by The Press, City of York Council and the National Apprenticeship Service, with partners, aims to encourage businesses to create 100 apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days.

The housebuilder David Wilson Homes has teamed up with CITB-ConstructionSkills to give the apprentice the opportunity to gain an NVQ 2 qualification in Site Joinery, and the option to go on to complete the NVQ 3 Advanced Apprenticeship qualification.

The apprentice could then join David Wilson on a permanent basis and progress through their academy.

Rhoddy MacKinnon, construction director at David Wilson Homes, Yorkshire East Division, said: “We are keen to create a steady stream of bright, fresh talent coming into our business and this new apprentice will be given the opportunity to develop skills in his or her chosen trade, while gaining invaluable experience working with leading-edge sustainable technology.”

Mick Hamill, regional delivery manager for CITB-ConstructionSkills in the north, said: “David Wilson’s pledge to take on a new apprentice is fantastic news for the industry and demonstrates its commitment to improving the future skills and productivity of its business.”

To apply for an apprenticeship or create an opportunity as part of the York Apprenticeship Challenge, visit apprenticeships.org.uk or phone 08000 150 600.