Eleven youngsters are learning a variety of trades while on the job

A housing group has kick-started National Apprenticeship Week by showcasing local youngsters who are learning on the job by working on a building project in Kilburn.

The lucky 11 are learning a variety of trades including plumbing, electrical work, joinery and carpentry on the project to build 50 homes at Carlton Vale.

The scheme is part of contractor Willmott Dixon and housing group Catalyst’s commitment that the project will leave a lasting legacy of training and job creation.

Luke Darocha, 20, from Kilburn, the youngest apprentice on the site, is gaining an NVQ level two in bricklaying.

He said: “My role has seen me build the internal cavity blockwork as well as external brickwork and I’m looking forward to what my career holds for me when I get to level two.”

Another trainee is 22-year-old Ebenezer Laryea, from Neasden, who after competing an NVQ in carpentry, is rounding off his skills by working at Carlton Vale to gain experience in plumbing while taking an NVQ at the College of North West London in Willesden.

He said: “I’ve now got the sort of trade skills that will enable me to progress and earn good money from construction.”

National Apprenticeship Week, which starts on Monday, highlights the importance of skills development.

Kevin Lambert, construction manager for Willmott Dixon said: “Construction is always looking for skilled people and rather than import them from other areas, we wanted to use Carlton Vale to train a new generation of skilled construction workers that will help drive prosperity in Kilburn and the local area.”

The homes are due to be completed at the end of next month.