EMPLOYER SPONSORS.

PlanBEE is a collaborative, industry driven higher apprenticeship scheme designed to help attract, retain and diversify talent in both the built environment and construction sector and the rail industry.

PlanBEE was inspired by Ryder Architecture who identified a skills and talent gap in their sector. They brought together Gateshead College and a partnership of architects, builders, engineers, surveyors and project managers to shake up the traditional way young people are recruited and trained in the construction sector.

The award-winning programme has been running in the North East since 2016 and in 2021 PlanBEE Manchester was launched. Since its launch over 70 businesses have been involved and 101 apprentices have graduated with 98% of them going on to work for one of the sponsor companies, or elsewhere in the built environment industry.

In 2024, PlanBEE Rail was launched. The programme was developed by Network Rail, its supply chain partners, Gateshead College and NSAR (The National Skills Academy for Rail) to help address the industry’s skills shortages and develop the next generation of project managers.

In 2026, PlanBEE gained the royal seal of approval when it received a Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education. Presented by His Majesty the King at St James’s Palace, the award is the highest national honour a Further Education college can receive.

Awarded every two years by the Sovereign on the advice of the Prime Minister, the prizes recognise institutions that demonstrate excellence, innovation and clear benefit to society.

Benefits

• A cost effective and innovative way to recruit and develop talented individuals.
• Being part of a collaborative, employer-led community, working together to build a strong talent pipeline.
• Intensive Higher Apprenticeship designed by employers that meets industry needs.
• Course content designed to ensure greater understanding and appreciation of project management and collaboration.