Meet the Apprenticeship Employer: Higgins

Tell us a bit about your business

For nearly 60 years, Higgins has built a reputation as a trusted contractor and developer who delivers exemplar, award winning projects across London and the South East. We work with clients, supply chain and design consultants, to deliver new build and refurbishment projects and create mixed tenure, sustainable developments.

People are what makes Higgins Partnerships the success it is today and the sheer number of long-service employees reflects how committed we are to our people. Success in construction is very much about having qualities like leadership and teamwork, assertiveness and flexibility, vision, versatility and commercial acumen. We help build these qualities so that the next generation of contractors has the skills to succeed and support the growth of the UK construction industry.

Why is Higgins an apprenticeship employer?

We understand the importance of career development and training, and are particularly aware of the skills shortages in the industry. We've invested in apprentices for a number of years and continue to see it as a fantastic way to attract new talent to the business, and to support development and progression in the business.

What apprenticeships are you offering?

Higgins offers apprenticeships from level 2 all the way through to level 6 degree apprenticeships. We provide a range of opportunities throughout the business and also in partnership with our supply chain. From trade based roles such as carpentry and electrical, to customer service, site supervision and business administration. Our Management Trainee Programme means apprentices can achieve a Construction Management or Quantity Surveying degree apprenticeship.

How can someone progress after the apprenticeship is over?

On completion of apprenticeships we offer a whole host of opportunities, from direct employment in the business, to higher level apprenticeships or further upskilling or formal training within the employees chosen career route. Many of our apprentices go on to achieve a permanent role with Higgins or our partners, while many others continue their learning and development to achieve further qualifications through apprenticeships.

What drew you to the Mayor of Lewisham's Apprenticeship Programme?

The Mayow Road project we are building for our client Lewisham Homes has created a fantastic opportunity to promote the construction industry to Lewisham residents, and to recruit local people into apprenticeship roles in the borough. Lewisham resident, Sarah is currently based on site at Mayow Road as a Site Admin and Liaison apprentice, working towards the Customer Service Level 2 Apprenticeship.

What makes the ideal apprentice?

We're keen to encourage uptake of apprenticeships for people of all ages and backgrounds, there is now no upper age limit so it's a great avenue to enable people to retrain and bring transferable skills from other sectors. Other than the basic entry requirements for the qualification, we look for candidates who are passionate about the role or opportunity, with a positive attitude toward learning on the job, and studying. We really value the fresh perspectives, and new ideas that apprentices can bring. 

Please visit our apprenticeships page to see our current roles.

Please visit the Higgins website for more details on their careers and apprenticeships opportunities.