October 7, 2025
Allison Homes is working with colleges and partners to tackle the skills gap, open new pathways for young people, and support long-term growth in the region.
As one of the East of England’s fastest-growing housebuilders, Allison Homes is investing in new communities and the people who will build them. In Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire, the company is partnering with educators to provide the skills the construction sector urgently needs. Yet the challenge is stark.
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates the UK will need an additional 216,800 workers by 2028, with more than a third of the current skilled workforce expected to retire within the next decade.
Against this backdrop, Allison Homes is putting partnerships at the heart of its approach, recognising that local collaboration is critical for addressing skills shortages and transforming perceptions of construction.
Partnering with Local Colleges
A major step forward has been the partnership between Allison Homes and Inspire Education Group (IEG), which operates in both Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire and includes Stamford College and Peterborough College. With Allison Homes’ backing, the college has opened a Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Centre, giving students access to the latest techniques and technologies.
Rachel Nicholls, Principal and CEO at IEG, describes the collaboration as “a game-changer for our learners,” adding that Allison Homes’ sponsorship and input into course design ensures students leave with the skills employers are demanding.
The partnership also provides placements, mentoring and apprenticeships, giving students real-world experience. Both organisations were recognised at the 2025 Peterborough Apprenticeship Awards – Allison Homes won ‘Best SME Business of the Year’ while IEG was named ‘Training Provider of the Year’.
Inspiring More Women into Construction
Encouraging a more diverse workforce is another priority. Through its work with IEG, Allison Homes is helping to dismantle outdated stereotypes and make construction accessible to young women. Initiatives include apprenticeship routes from site trades to surveying and commercial roles, as well as support for regional events such as Women in Construction Lincolnshire.
“Allison Homes’ commitment to increasing female representation provides vital encouragement and visible role models,” says Rachel. One example is Lana Coupland, a T-Level student who has rotated through head office departments and gained site experience at Market Deeping, broadening her career options.
Success Stories from the Region
The company is already nurturing a new generation of talent from across the East of England. Former apprentice Poppy Ludgate is now an NHBC inspector, while bricklayer Jacob Kelk, who completed his apprenticeship in 2024, has won national awards and been selected to represent the UK at the WorldSkills competition in Shanghai in 2026.
Zoe Evans, Head of HR, explains: “For us, it’s all about investing in people. Whether it’s supporting a young apprentice on their first day or helping a graduate move into management, every individual brings something unique to our business.”
Building for a Sustainable Future
Sustainability is another focus for the Cambridgeshire region. Allison Homes is working with IEG to integrate net-zero construction into the curriculum, ensuring students gain the knowledge needed to build energy-efficient homes of the future.
“We’re already working with Allison Homes on research into sustainable materials and energy-efficient techniques,” Rachel notes. “Their developments, many in the East of England, serve as case studies for our learners and help prepare them for the challenges ahead.”
Over the next year, Allison Homes will expand its apprenticeship and T-Level programmes, increase placements for women, strengthen mentoring networks, and deepen its links with colleges in Cambridgeshire and surrounding areas. The goal is not just to train individuals but to secure a pipeline of skilled professionals capable of meeting housing demand across the region.
For more information, visit: www.allison-homes.co.uk
