Dandara seeks next generation of industry leaders through Management Trainee Programme
“The Management Trainee Programme is ideal for people like me who wanted to continue studying after school while also beginning my career”
Recent reports show that the UK construction industry needs to recruit a million more workers over the next 10 years to reach housebuilding targets[1]. To help meet this demand, Dandara is continuing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of construction professionals through the relaunch of its Management Trainee Programme.
The independent housebuilder is now inviting applications for five new trainee roles based across its offices in Braintree, Milton Keynes, Tunbridge Wells and Bristol. The programme is designed to help young people build long-term careers in the housebuilding industry while addressing the sector's growing skills shortage.
The two-year scheme offers hands-on experience across a range of disciplines, including surveying, technical, sustainability, design and construction management. Through structured training, mentoring and practical experience, participants gain valuable insight into the many career opportunities available within housebuilding.
The programme looks to enrol school leavers who have chosen not to attend university and who are keen to develop a long-term career within the construction industry. Unlike a traditional university degree, the Management Trainee Programme offers an earn-while-you-learn pathway, enabling participants to gain hands-on industry experience while undertaking apprenticeship study and working towards recognised professional qualifications, with the opportunity to gain a formal qualification up to degree level.
Allison Murphy, Learning and Development Manager at Dandara, said: "Many people don't realise just how diverse the construction industry is - there really is a role for everyone, whether in sales, planning or construction. We’re looking forward to welcoming our next cohort of trainees across our offices in England, and to support them throughout the next two years as they develop their skills and gain experience across the business.
"University or college is not the right path for everyone. Programmes like this allow young people to begin building their careers straight away, earning from day one and working towards important life milestones without the burden of student debt. By developing the skills of those entering the industry and encouraging more young people to consider careers in construction, we can help secure the future of the sector."
One person who can attest to the benefits of the programme is Harry Collins (20), who is based in Dandara Northern Home Counties’ head office in Milton Keynes. He joined the Management Trainee Programme in September 2024 after leaving school.
He said: “The Management Trainee Programme is ideal for people like me who wanted to continue studying after school while also beginning my career. Whilst my university studies teach the theory behind housebuilding, my time with Dandara has helped me develop practical skills in important areas like problem solving, people management and relationship building – things you just can’t learn from a textbook.
“I love the variety of the job and opportunity to experience all different parts of the business. It allows you to explore a range of career paths before deciding where you want to specialise – for me, that was surveying. Each department has a designated mentor overseeing my activities and the programme has been structured exceptionally well throughout.”
By working four days a week for Dandara and studying one day a week at The University College of Estate Management in Reading, Harry is working towards a BSc (Hons) in Real Estate Management.
Harry added: “I cannot recommend this pathway enough to anyone who wants to start earning and building their career but doesn’t wish to give up education just yet.”
Successful applicants for roles like Harry’s will demonstrate strong communication skills, a positive attitude, logical thinking and problem-solving abilities, alongside a genuine enthusiasm to learn and develop within the industry.
Applications for the Management Trainee Programme will close on 19th June. To find out more about the opportunities please visit: https://careers.dandara.com/jobs/7796281-management-trainee.