Lovell, a leading partnership housing specialist with over 50 years of experience in residential construction, regeneration, and retrofit solutions, has announced a new educational partnership with West Suffolk College. This collaboration, part of a wider initiative with the Eastern Education Group (EEG), aims to bridge the gap between education and industry by providing students with hands-on experience, skills development, and career opportunities in the construction sector.
The partnership was officially unveiled at Lovell’s inaugural Suffolk Supply Chain event on 21st March 2025. The event, which brought together local businesses, underscored Lovell’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and fostering collaboration within the industry. It also provided a platform to demonstrate Lovell’s ongoing support for Suffolk through their joint venture with Suffolk County Council, Edmundham Developments, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts such as this in delivering long-term social and economic value to the region.
As part of the educational partnership, Lovell and EEG will deliver a range of opportunities for students, including annual site tours, student engagement activities, and career events. Additional programmes are under development to further integrate industry expertise into education.
A pilot project will launch this summer, with selected students gaining direct experience through site visits, mentoring sessions, and industry-led workshops. The full programme will roll out in the new academic year, offering apprenticeships, work placements, and specialist training programmes designed to prepare students for careers in construction and regeneration.
Simon Medler, Regional Managing Director at Lovell, commented:
"We’re proud to announce this educational partnership with West Suffolk College and the Eastern Education Group. For over 50 years, Lovell has worked closely with communities to create homes that make a lasting difference. This partnership continues that mission, providing students with the skills and experience needed to succeed in our industry. The supply chain event in Suffolk was an important moment for Lovell, showcasing our commitment to the local area through the signing of this educational agreement and highlighting our dedication to both local businesses and the future of construction."
Colin Shaw, Group Sixth Form Principal for Eastern Education Group.
Colin said: “Lovell have made a positive difference to their community for over 50 years and we are celebrating 100 years of supporting people of all ages at West Suffolk College and Eastern Education Group – so this partnership is a powerful collaboration that we are proud to announce.
“By working closely with this successful market leading housing developer, our learners will get the chance to develop their skills and knowledge that will enable them to be able to hit the ground running when they start their careers in the construction and built environment industries.”
“The link-up will also give our students many exciting opportunities to gain valuable experiences and insights - and we are very grateful to Lovell for showing their commitment to support the next generation of tradespeople via their expertise, thanks to this deal.”
Our commitment to talent development aligns with its long-standing mission to invest in communities and create sustainable career pathways.
For students, this partnership offers direct access to industry professionals, real-world experience, and insight into diverse career paths in the built environment. For businesses, it presents a chance to help shape the next generation of construction talent while strengthening the local workforce.
The partnership is open to further collaboration, with Lovell encouraging local businesses and industry professionals to get involved.
For more information about the initiative and how to participate, visit: www.lovell.co.uk.
