What is The 5% Club?
The 5% Club is a dynamic network of employers working to drive “earn and learn” as part of building the UK’s skills base. Members pledge to ensure that at least 5% of their workforce is made up of apprentices, graduates, or colleagues on formal training programmes.
Achieving Gold status means we’ve gone above and beyond this benchmark – and we’re proud to be recognised for our efforts.
Our commitment in action
We believe in growing talent from within and opening doors for new talent to thrive. So far, we've celebrated with 100 colleagues who have completed their qualification and we have big plans for the future.
Here’s how we’re making that happen:
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Over 100 apprentices enrolled across Levels 2 to 7, with plans to expand further in 2025–26. This represents a 52% increase on the previous year.
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Our first Data Analyst and AI Data Specialist apprenticeships, vital in building a skilled workforce that can drive data-driven decision-making and AI solutions.
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A graduate programme with 100% completion and permanent role progression.
A wide range of earn and learn pathways, including:
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Stepping Stones – an internal development programme with apprenticeship progression.
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Empowered Futures – a leadership development initiative for high-potential colleagues.
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Professional qualifications such as CIMA, ACCA, CIPD, and RICS.
Looking ahead
We’re not stopping here. In the year ahead, we’re planning to introduce new apprenticeships in construction, digital and data, communications, and more – helping us build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and the future we’re shaping.
We’re also continuing to focus on diversity and inclusion, with targeted efforts to close the gender gap in construction and support underrepresented groups into leadership roles.
