Built Environment

The Built Environment sector is composed of contractors for both general and specialist building firms (for example, house builders, plumbers and scaffolders). The UK construction industry is one of the strongest in the world, and the sector supports and facilitates growth within a rapidly expanding economy. It employs more than 78,000 people within Greater Manchester – 40 per cent of the workforce - according to 2004 statistics. At £2.6bn, the sector was the fourth largest contributor, in terms of Gross Value Added, to the Greater Manchester economy.

The Sector Development Group (SDG) has had considerable success this year in securing an important Progression Agreement for the BTEC National Diploma in Construction. A market research project into progression from level three craft courses is underway. Successful partnerships have been forged with the Centre for Education in the Built Environment and Higher Education Academy, Summit Skills, Asset Skills, Construction Skills and Higher Level Skills Pathfinder.

Two special projects are being funded this year. They will address valuable issues for the GMSA by increasing work based learning opportunities for part-time students and aid their learning progression.

Members of the Built Environment SDG:

Asset Skills

Bolton Community College

Construction Skills

Greater Manchester Aimhigher

Higher Level Skills Pathfinder

Open University in the North West

Salford College

Stockport College

Summit Skills

Tameside College

The Manchester College

University Centre Oldham

University of Bolton

University of Salford

Please find minutes and project plans of your SDG in the members' area.