Gleeson invests in next generation with apprenticeship scheme
Gleeson Homes is marking National Apprenticeship Week by reaffirming its long-term commitment to developing future talent, announcing that its apprenticeship scheme will continue into 2026.
Now running for more than eight years, Gleeson’s apprenticeship and early-careers programmes have already helped hundreds of young people launch successful careers. Many former apprentices have gone on to secure permanent roles within the business, with some progressing into senior positions - underlining the scheme’s role as a genuine career pathway rather than a short-term placement.
The announcement comes at a critical time for the construction and housing sector, which continues to face a national skills shortage. The HBF has reported that around 25% of the existing home building workforce is over 50, meaning the sector is facing an impending retirement cliff edge.* Additionally, they have reported that for every 10,000 new homes the industry builds, 30,000 new recruits are needed, including but not limited to 2500 bricklayers, 2500 groundwork operatives and 1000 carpenters.*
“We know the industry is facing long-term skills challenges, but we also know how transformative the right opportunity can be for a young person. Our apprenticeship scheme is about investing in young people’s futures and strengthening our communities, as well as ensuring the housebuilding sector has the talent it needs for years to come.”
Gleeson has a sustainability target of 10% of their workforce to be in ‘earn and learn’ roles, which includes apprentices, trainees and graduates. This offers young people -- and those wishing to enhance their skills – with valuable opportunities through paid employment, recognised qualifications and hands-on working experience.
Gleeson currently has 36 full-time apprentices, as well as five trainees completing apprenticeship qualifications and two permanent employees undertaking degree apprenticeships alongside their day-to-day roles. This broad intake reflects the company’s belief that learning should not stop once someone enters the workforce. They hope to increase the number of apprentices for the 2026 intake in September of this year.
Apprenticeships are available across both regional and group functions, with the largest number of roles based within Build, including joinery and bricklaying. Gleeson also supports apprentices in Finance, HR, Technical and Commercial roles.
“I dropped out of my architecture course at university because I wasn’t 100% sure if I wanted to do it. I saw the apprenticeship listed and did my research on Gleeson and clicked apply once I realised it’s a company I’d love to join. It is extremely rewarding to see a site progress from construction phases to families moving in, knowing that my contribution has helped put someone in a home. Gleeson’s drive for affordable housing is something that makes me proud to work for them.”
For those wishing to apply for the 2026 intake, more information can be found on the Gleeson careers website.
