North Notts College and Bassetlaw District Council Launch Employer Academy
In an exciting new partnership, North Notts College has teamed up with Bassetlaw District Council (BDC) to launch a ground-breaking Employer Academy.
Set to begin after Easter, the programme provides construction students with practical placements while helping regenerate one of the most deprived areas in Bassetlaw.
As part of Bassetlaw District Council’s “Thriving Neighbourhoods Strategy” this initiative focuses on revitalising Cheapside by addressing deprivation and community disengagement. Aiming to create sustainable and vibrant neighbourhoods, it will improve living conditions, boost biodiversity, and foster stronger community engagement.
Regional charity Groundwork Five Counties will lead these efforts, driving lasting positive change for both the environment and local communities.
Work will begin in the Priory Mews area, focusing on smaller projects that follow proper project management practices and real-world work schedules to ensure safety and efficiency. Tasks include repairing damaged brickwork, constructing garden gates, and restoring existing walls.
By focusing on these tasks, students at various levels will have opportunities to work in teams, each tackling different sections of the project.
Further down the line, construction students will have the opportunity to design, plan, survey, and build community allotments in Cheapside. While working on this project, they will gain hands-on experience in sustainable practices, conservation, and green space development.
Collaborating with industry professionals, students will develop skills in green construction techniques, biodiversity management, and sustainable design. Planned tasks include creating urban greening planters, building wildlife corridors, and even constructing a pizza oven using sustainable materials.
Progress on the community allotment will create additional opportunities for students in other curriculum areas. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates, where we are planning on showcasing these transformation works.
Karen Connolle, Curriculum Team Manager at North Notts College, said:
“We are proud to be part of this transformational project. Our students will not only gain invaluable experience in a practical setting but will also contribute to making a lasting difference in the community.”
Darryl Plummer, Programmes Director at Groundwork Five Counties, commented:
“This partnership is a fantastic opportunity where we aim to combine hands-on learning with meaningful community impact. By working on live projects in Cheapside, students will gain invaluable skills while directly contributing to improving the local environment, as part of our wider community engagement work.
Groundwork Five Counties is committed to creating thriving, sustainable neighbourhoods, and we’re excited to support this initiative alongside North Notts College and Bassetlaw District Council.”
Gary Smith Property & Development Manager at Bassetlaw District Council added:
“It is a project required to help enhance the area while working with students from North Notts College to provide the site experience they need to finalise their training”.