We’re pleased to announce that The Hudson Foundation is increasing its support for construction apprentices.

The enhanced package includes:

1. More apprentices sponsored – expanding from 30 to 40 apprentices per year
2. Increased funding – raising sponsorship from £2,600 to 3,000 per apprentice
3. Completion bonus – a new £500 completion bonus split between apprentices and employers

Latest government figures show national construction apprenticeship starts fell by 1.2 per cent year on year while drop-out rates have reached 47 per cent, illustrating the skills challenge facing the sector. 

The scheme has already helped 278 young people enter an industry where highly skilled tradespeople can earn more than £1,000 per week.

Launched last year in our hometown of Bridlington, East Yorkshire, the foundation unites Hudson Contract’s efforts to create opportunities for young people to acquire skills, develop self-confidence and get a good start in life. Additionally, the foundation supports families in need and provides a voice for self-employment in construction.

David Jackson, founder and chairman of Hudson Contract, said investing in skills is vital at a time when businesses face rising costs: “That’s why we provide a straightforward scheme of financial support, and supply companies with advice on how to navigate the bureaucracy of national apprenticeship schemes. Coastal communities face unique challenges so we are trying to bridge that gap with our scheme.”

Bridlington businessman Tom Hart, who started his career as an apprentice bricklayer and now runs Springvale Homes, has seen the benefits of the scheme first-hand. 

"It takes away the financial burden and gives local businesses the chance to bring on an apprentice," he said. "Sam Emmerson joined us through the scheme at 16. He's now 22, fully qualified and a real asset to the company, working alongside his dad who has been with us for ten years."

Pictured: Sam Emmerson, Joiner at Springvale Homes and Tom Hart, Founder & Managing Director of Springvale Homes

Hudson Contract supports other construction businesses by transferring funds from its apprenticeship levy to help cover their training costs. 

Our business support manager and apprentice ambassador, Fiona Gamwell, manages our sponsorship scheme, helps construction firms make the most of training opportunities and is a member of the government-backed Yorkshire and Humber Apprenticeship Ambassador Network.

Charlie Dewhirst, constituency MP for Bridlington and the Wolds, has witnessed the scheme's positive impact. He said: “To sponsor 278 apprentices is a fantastic achievement and boost to skills in our area. Hudson’s increase in support comes at a time many companies are cutting back their initiatives due to the challenging economic environment. Apprenticeships are so crucial to that first step into your career, that lift up, that opportunity to learn new skills and apply them throughout your working life.”

Hudson Contract will continue celebrating local talent through its sponsorship of the Construction Apprentice Award at the 2025 East Yorkshire Apprentice Awards.

Our directors haven't forgotten their roots: David Jackson began his career as an apprentice draughtsman while managing director Ian Anfield started as a civil engineering apprentice.

To find out more about the foundation, please click here.