When I started watching Homes Under the Hammer, I had no idea what a career in regeneration looked like

Supporting young people to enter our industry and develop their careers is vital to the future vibrancy, dynamism, and success of our placemaking approach.

Raheim Clemetson, who recently completed a Level 3 Construction Support Technician qualification, has reflected on his experience of working at Muse and developing his skills as an apprentice.

We also spoke to Natalie Kennedy, senior project manager who supported Raheim. Natalie helped develop the Muse Academy which was set up in 2023 to create more opportunities for young people to enter and thrive in the regeneration sector.

By Raheim Clemetson

One of the things which sparked my early interest in the construction industry was after watching shows like Homes Under the Hammer. The programme, featuring small investors renovating and regenerating homes, offered a tiny window into the development world – and I loved it.

This year, supported by the Muse team, I passed and completed a Level 3 Construction Support Technician qualification. This has enabled me to take up a place at the University of Salford in September, to study Real Estate Development & Management, and the next step on a career in regeneration.

Unusually, I was able to complete my apprenticeship early and 5 months ahead of schedule. I benefitted from the support of the Muse team, the practical and technical experience I’ve been able to gain, and the trust that I was able to pass my End Point Assessment ahead of my peers.

The result is a platform for continued career progression within the business and a clear route to become a Project Manager.

My first experience working with Muse was through a summer work experience placement. Over the last two years, I’ve been embedded within the North West team and gained firsthand experience of what placemaking, and regeneration, is all about.

There is so much more to the industry than I ever thought – ranging from the initial design process, through to post construction and everything in between. It’s been an incredible learning curve.

Whilst the whole team has supported and encouraged me, Natalie Kennedy – Senior Project Manager and mentor – has been instrumental to my trajectory, along with Phil Marsden, Managing Director – North West

For other young people looking to enter the industry, I would encourage them to talk to people already working in the sector as they have likely been in the same shoes. We need more businesses like Muse who give opportunities and advice as it is extremely beneficial for younger people. Charities such as Regeneration Brainery and Future of Greater Manchester are doing excellent work to increase useful opportunities and job/career awareness, so would be a good place to start.

Having taken the first steps, with the support of Muse, I know there is a fulfilling career in front of me. I’m excited about what the future holds and looking forward to future milestones and achievements.

By Natalie Kennedy

As a business, Muse have taken the time to put processes in place to be amongst the best at cultivating and growing talent. The Muse Academy, set up in 2023, is designed to create more opportunities for young people to enter and thrive in the regeneration sector.

Having supported two T-Level students and eight work experience placements over the last 12 months, I know there are big plans for further expansion next year.

There is such massive opportunity but there is also a real lack of awareness, amongst young people, about the range of jobs in the built environment and also what regeneration entails. Through the Muse Academy we hope to grow future Property Industry leaders.