KORI Construction has broken ground on a former pub site which is to be transformed into a £9million new care home – with help from the next generation of construction professionals who are learning the trade at Kidderminster College.

The Northamptonshire-based business has begun work on the site of the old Greyhound pub in Norton Road, Stourbridge, which is to be turned into a 60-bed residential care home for the elderly.

The company has teamed up with Kidderminster College in a partnership that will see Kori Construction working with long-term unemployed people enrolled on the college’s Skills Bootcamp in green construction and retrofit technology to equip them with the skills they need to enter the jobs’ market.

From September, the business will also work with HNC construction management, electrical, bricklaying and carpentry students at the college, offering work placements and career talks.

Elaine Kendall, head of sustainability and communications at Kori Construction, said: “We’re very excited to be teaming up with Kidderminster College. As a business, it is vital that we foster the next generation of talent coming into the industry and engaging with schools and colleges is a fantastic way to achieve this.

“But it is not just about helping the next generation to have a bright future. We want to support those individuals who are struggling to find work get into a career that is right for them. Kidderminster College’s Skills Bootcamps are a great initiative for achieving this and we’re delighted to be part of it.”

Skills Bootcamps are free and flexible courses run by Kidderminster College giving people the chance to learn new skills, and fast-tracking them to interviews with local employers.

Anyone over 19 who lives in England and has the right to work in the UK can apply to join.

Danny Pardoe, business engagement lead at Kidderminster College, said: “With the current industry growth in construction, we know that it’s vital that skills gaps are bridged and that students are prepared for a future in the industry.

“The partnership with Kori Construction will aid us immensely at Kidderminster College in preparing the next generation of construction workers through work experience, hands-on projects, guest speakers, interview preparation and more. We are truly grateful to the team at Kori Construction for the opportunity to collaborate for the good of our students and our local community.”

As part of the Skills Bootcamps, Kori Construction will also be delivering sessions on CV writing, how to prepare for interviews and role-playing interview situations to help attendees upskill and build their confidence.

A ground-breaking ceremony, attended by students from Kidderminster College, has kicked off the start of construction on the site of the old landmark pub.

The new care facility, which is being built on behalf of Barchester Healthcare, will include lounges, a bistro, cinema, hairdresser and landscaped outdoor areas.

Property development manager at Barchester, Mike Coggin, said: “We are really excited to get this project under way.

"Our Stourbridge home will be a fantastic addition to the local community.”