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Nescot has been chosen to be part of a new construction scheme set up by the Mayor of London to help tackle the capital’s skills gap and housing shortage.

The college is one of 21 training providers, and the only college in Surrey, to be awarded the Quality Mark, a kitemark that recognises excellence in construction skills training.

Sadiq Khan launched the Mayor’s Construction Academy (MCA) to help tackle London’s shortage of skilled construction workers and the need for more homes in the city.

“London is home to some of the most exciting and dynamic talent, but there is no denying that we face a shortage in construction skills and that this is hampering our ability to tackle London’s housing crisis,” Mr Khan said.

“I’m committed to building the workforce of the future, and a key part of this is recognising the best skills providers across the city and using them as exemplars from which others can learn.”

Nescot offers a full range of full-time and part-time construction courses and apprenticeships. The college is also home to the Gas and Electrical Academy, which offers training for trade professionals.

“We are delighted that our proud history of offering high-quality construction training has been recognised,” said Frances Rutter, CEO and Principal at Nescot.

“The MCA represents a great opportunity for our students and the employers we work so closely with to be part of helping to increase the number of skilled trade professionals in London.”

The 21 training providers with the Quality Mark were unveiled at the launch of the London Skills Strategy on June 6. Other providers can apply to be given the kitemark later this year.

Nescot is now eligible to bid for funding to be part of an MCA Hub, aimed at improving coordination between training providers and employers and promoting careers in the industry in schools.

The final stage of the process is for applications for capital funding for equipment and facilities to support the delivery of construction provision.

Dave Lewin, Director of Construction at Nescot, said: “As a college, we take pride in getting our students ready for work by helping them gain the skills, knowledge and experience they need alongside their qualifications.

“Our construction students are all taught by people with their own experience of working in the industry, so they can give real-life examples of why skills like accuracy and good customer service are so important.

“We’re proud to have been chosen to be part of the MCA, and we’re looking forward to working even more closely with employers to help our students be part of closing the skills gap in London.”

The Construction Academy has been developed with support from employers, industry experts and training providers, and is partly funded by the London Economic Action Partnership.