Building  industry trainees from Essex were among a total of 60 apprentices who gathered for a unique training day run by construction company Crest Nicholson. 
The apprentices were joined on site by Crest Nicholson chief executive Stephen Stone, who led the event. 
Over the course of the day the apprentices had the opportunity to work and learn across the five distinct disciplines of bricklayer, carpenter, electrician, dryliner and decorator, and plumber. Each was led by a mentor sharing their skills and demonstrating best practice examples. 
The apprentice day coincided with the launch of the Crest Nicholson Site Management Academy – a training programme designed to bring up to 12 new trainee site managers into the business each year and create future site managers, build managers and production directors. 
One of the apprentices attending on the day was 19-year old decorator Harry Pearson, from Colchester. 
He said: “I’ve been a part of the apprentice programme for nearly two years and it’s been a valuable learning experience. 
“One of the major benefits has been the opportunity to learn on the job and I’ve really enjoyed the freedom I have with my work. 
“I’ve had the chance to learn about all the different disciplines and see how various techniques and skills can be put into practice to create a new home.” 
Stephen Stone said: “As chief exec, I strongly believe the best way to address the current skills shortage is to ensure we build up the industry through a new generation of workers.