Weekly News Bulletin – 17th August 2018

This week Tes discussed an important time of the year, A-level results day. For many young people across the country, this is a key point in their educational lives so far. Whilst many believe there is only one option for 14-19 year olds, which is the academic path, many are often unaware of all the alternative career paths. Now, more than ever, there is an abundance of opportunities ahead of them and it is important for all teachers and parents to help with providing the correct information about alternative routes into work. Here at Metsec, we are passionate about offering apprenticeships.

PBC Today gave us an exciting insight into a housing plan supported by the Government and Homes England, for thousands of new specialised homes designed for vulnerable people. The plan is set to be executed over the next three years and suppliers can bid for the chance to take part in building the specially designed housing. Click below to read more about the real benefits of the project and how the homes are designed to tackle current issues in society and provide a vital life line for the most vulnerable people in society.

Industry Europe spoke about how rapidly the industry is evolving and how digitalised technology is already starting to transform the UK’s manufacturing sector. Transforming the production processes with the help of new digital advancements could allow manufacturers to bring innovation and allow them to be more agile. What are your opinions on digitalised technology?

On a similar note, Trade Arabia discussed the need for adopting new technologies in the construction and building sector. We would recommend reading this article to learn more from leading industry experts on the benefits of digitisation, ahead of The Construction Technology Forum, which is taking place in Dubai from September 24th-25th. Companies adopting new technologies could see various benefits from the reduction of operational costs to boosting productivity and improving the quality of work.
Finally, PBC Today reported about the views of Kim Venau, CEO of BLP Insurance, on the need to tackle issues that the industry is facing, such as an ageing workforce and the uncertainties of Brexit. It is clear there is a need for a new solution to drive meaningful change, and collaboration between sectors appears to be the answer. Do you think that long-term commitment and investment from all stakeholders is required for participants across the sector to benefit from a more efficient and innovative industry for a long-lasting effect?

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‘Young people need to know their options’
With A-level results day looming, young people need to be aware of alternatives to university, writes Kirstie Donnelly
https://www.tes.com/news/a-level-results-day-2018-young-people-need-know-their-options

£76m a year to expand specialised housing for vulnerable people
Thousands of extra homes, designed to support people with disabilities, mental health issues and the elderly, will be created over the next three years with an additional £76m a year, the government has announced
https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/planning-construction-news/76m-specialised-housing/44394/

Transforming manufacturing with the Internet of Things
Brian Foster, Head of Industry Finance at Siemens Financial Services in the UK, considers how digitalised technology will transform the UK’s manufacturing industry and how new financing methods are key to this development.
https://industryeurope.com/transforming-manufacturing-with-the-internet-of-things/

Mideast building firms ‘must develop digitisation strategy’
Construction companies in the Middle East region must adopt new technologies to survive in a digital world, said leading experts ahead of a major industry event in Dubai, UAE.
http://www.tradearabia.com/news/CONS_343785.html

Meaningful collaboration the key to transforming the UK construction industry
The UK’s housing market and the wider construction sector face multiple challenges. Kim Venau, CEO of BLP Insurance, discusses what needs to happen to effect meaningful change
https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/planning-construction-news/transforming-uk-construction/44457/