Construction Skills Hub gains regional recognition for tackling industry skills shortage
An innovative training facility in Chesterfield is gaining regional attention for its hands-on approach to construction skills development. As a result, the Construction Skills Hub is helping position the town as a leader in workforce transformation.
Located on a construction site in Mastin Moor, the Hub equips learners with practical qualifications in groundworks, brickwork, and joinery. It operates through a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, and the Devonshire Group.
Funded by the Staveley Town Deal, The Hub recently featured on BBC Politics East Midlands. It has been shortlisted for Regeneration and Restoration Project of the Year at Insider Media’s East Midlands Property Awards 2025. Insider Media will announce the winners in September.
Thanks to its real-world setting, the Hub gives students the experience and qualifications they need to enter the construction sector. Shortly, it will also offer degree-level apprenticeships.
Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “It is fantastic that this project is getting recognition. This is a key project because it helps ensure local people can gain the skills to access careers in construction. This contributes to our aims of making Staveley a place where people can start, stay and grow.”
Over the next ten years, the Hub will support more than 5,000 learners. Chesterfield College and the University of Derby will deliver the qualifications.
Julie Richards OBE, Principal of Chesterfield College, said: “Projects such as this are at the core of how we operate. Working directly with key employers, the Hub is supporting students to develop the skills required to meet the ever-increasing demand. Sitting on the Staveley Town Deal Board I know the real impact this project will bring to the local area.”
Currently, the Hub focuses on site-based trade qualifications. However, it will soon expand to include training in retrofit and green technologies. This ensures learners gain future-ready skills that align with the evolving needs of the industry.
In addition, the Hub will provide degree-level apprenticeships in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, and Civil Engineering.
Matt Snowden, Associate Provost for Industry Engagement at the University of Derby, said “We are proud to be working in partnership with Chesterfield College and Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver training through the Construction Skills Hub, providing real-world learning opportunities for people looking to embark on a career in the construction industry or develop their skills so they can progress onto new roles. As a Civic University, we commit to supporting regional economic growth and tackling skills shortages by working collaboratively with industry partners. This includes the delivery of our Degree Apprenticeships in Civil Engineering and our new provision in Construction Management, helping to build a strong pipeline of skilled local talent.”
The Hub sits on land provided by the Devonshire Group, which is also delivering the neighbouring housing development.
Andrew Byrne, Group Property Development Director for the Devonshire Group and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “During every project we undertake, we always look for opportunities to add value and create a lasting legacy for the communities that we serve. We are delighted to be a partner on the Construction Skills Hub on our site. The Hub provides ongoing opportunities for education and skills development that we hope will have a positive impact on the local economy for many years to come.
The Construction Skills Hub plays a central role in Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan. Its delivery supports the council’s goal of creating a thriving borough and improving the quality of life for local people.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “We are committed to making sure that our borough is a place where everyone has the opportunity to gain the skills and experience needed to secure an excellent career. We’re proud to support the construction skills hub because it is crucial to helping our residents get ahead, make a better life for themselves and grow our local economy.”
To find out more about the Construction Skills Hub and the Staveley Town Deal, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal
