Apprenticeship Week: Building Skills, Building Homes

During this year’s National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we are highlighting the vital role apprenticeships play in developing essential skills for the future.

This year’s theme, Skills for Life, focuses on how apprenticeships provide hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications, equipping individuals for long-term careers.

Willohaus in Salford is a key example of how apprenticeships are providing real-world learning. In partnership with ECF, Salix Homes and their construction partner Eric Wright are building 100 affordable, energy-efficient homes to the area. Built to Passivhaus standards, Willohaus is designed to reduce energy consumption while providing a high-quality living environment for residents. Alongside its sustainability goals, the project is also helping to train the next generation of construction professionals.

Developing practical skills

Two apprentices from Eric Wright, Dan Cooke and Harry Molyneux, are currently working on Willohaus, gaining valuable experience in different aspects of the construction process.

Dan, who is studying for a project management degree at Salford University, is working as an apprentice site manager. His role involves overseeing structural elements like the roof and external walls, ensuring health and safety compliance, and coordinating subcontractors.

One of the biggest challenges has been working to Passivhaus standards, which require precise airtightness and insulation. Learning how to manage these technical demands has helped him develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of sustainable construction.

 Dan said:

Harry, an apprentice quantity surveyor, has been focusing on procurement, particularly for internal elements like joinery and decoration. Understanding the importance of airtightness in Passivhaus construction has been a key part of his learning, as even small gaps can impact energy efficiency. Seeing how these technical details contribute to the overall success of the project has been an important part of his development.

Building skills for a more sustainable future

ECF and our partners are committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainability in urban regeneration, and projects like Willohaus offer an opportunity for young people to develop skills needed to meet this ambition.

For apprentices like Dan and Harry, learning these skills early in their careers is crucial. Passivhaus construction, for example, requires a deep understanding of materials, ventilation systems, and thermal performance. Airtightness, insulation, and heat recovery are all key elements that can significantly impact the long-term sustainability of a building.

Developing expertise in these areas ensures that our future workforce is equipped to help push the industry forwards towards greater sustainability. By working on projects like Willohaus, apprentices can gain hands-on experience in building methods that will define the future of the industry.

Dan explained how this project has opened his eyes to the high level of precision required in sustainable construction.

The importance of apprenticeships

Both Dan and Harry agree that practical experience on-site has been key to developing their skills. They believe there should be more opportunities for school students to learn about careers in construction, as many are unaware of the variety of roles beyond traditional trades.

Jessica, a senior manager at Eric Wright, also emphasised that attitude and willingness to learn are just as important as technical skills.

Skills for life

As they continue their apprenticeships, both Dan and Harry are looking forward to progressing in their careers. Dan aims to move into site management, while Harry hopes to become a chartered quantity surveyor.

Willohaus is an example of how projects can offer more than just housing. By creating opportunities for apprentices, it supports skill development and career progression in the construction industry.

As National Apprenticeship Week 2025 celebrates the impact of apprenticeships, projects like Willohaus show the value of hands-on learning in preparing young people for long-term careers. Developing sustainability-focused skills now will help shape a greener, more energy-efficient built environment in the years to come.