Oxfordshire’s ACE Training stands out as a trailblazer in construction education, redefining how skills are developed, and careers are shaped. Far from being a conventional training centre, ACE has crafted a unique approach that blends practical expertise with personal and professional development, ensuring their learners are prepared not only for the job but for the evolving demands of the construction industry.
As a not-for-profit organisation, ACE Training is driven by a mission that transcends teaching technical skills. They are committed to fostering their learners’ interests, guiding their growth, and instilling the confidence needed to thrive in their chosen trades. Their programmes cover a wide spectrum, offering apprenticeships in bricklaying, site carpentry, bench joinery, and property maintenance, as well as pre-apprenticeship courses in site carpentry and bricklaying, ensuring students have diverse and tailored pathways into the construction sector.
The centre’s success is rooted in its dedication to learners. With experienced tutors who bring real-world industry expertise, students receive training in authentic work scenarios, supported by a high tutor-to-student ratio. Flexible timetables, top-tier facilities, and personalised support help learners transition seamlessly into meaningful employment, giving them a significant advantage in today’s competitive job market.
ACE Training also leads the way in championing sustainability within the construction industry. Their commitment to environmental responsibility is evident through an impressive array of green initiatives, including the installation of 70KW of solar panels to reduce reliance on the national grid and operating free electric minibuses for student transport, charged primarily through solar energy. The centre’s approach to sustainability permeates every aspect of its operations, from repurposing building materials and implementing comprehensive recycling programmes to using eco-friendly alternatives like lime mortar, harvesting rainwater, and managing waste with precision. These efforts not only minimise their environmental footprint but also instil in students the importance of sustainable practices as they embark on their careers.
A recent success story exemplifies ACE’s ethos. Four pre-apprentices, known as “The Brickie Boys,” won the BBC Young Reporter Regional Title with their project “How Teenage Guys Are Seen in Society.” This remarkable achievement underscores ACE’s commitment to nurturing articulate, confident young professionals who can make an impact far beyond their technical abilities.
At ACE Training, the vision is far-reaching. They don’t just teach construction; they prepare individuals to step into the workforce with enthusiasm, practical expertise, and the resilience to build lasting careers. For employers, ACE represents a reliable source of motivated, highly skilled apprentices ready to contribute to the industry’s future. For students, ACE is a gateway to a fulfilling and sustainable career.
Read the article on the OCVA website here.
