A construction firm with a sustainable focus is launching a signature training programme to underpin its growth plans.

The Future50 company's 'Beattie Passive Construction Skills Course' hands workers a qualification in its patented method, which develops buildings with a low carbon footprint and high-heat retention.

It comes after the company recently expanded into a workshop space at the Hethel Engineering Centre, near Wymondham, to begin constructing wood frames on site.

But despite securing patents for its method in 57 countries, the firm has no plans to expand overseas for at least another two years.

Rosemary Beattie – who founded the company with her husband Ron – said the organisation was committed to supporting young people through both the NVQ and work experience placements.

'A lot of people are talking about getting people back to work, but what we have is a product that is getting people into work while developing their qualifications as well,' she said.

Mr Beattie added: 'We have devised a programme of NVQ level 5 and level 6 training to help create a whole new workforce.

'Through our scheme you are building something or making something from day one. The trainee can say 'I have started to build a house'.

'We need skilled workers but we do not have enough. And if you don't start looking at this issue for the business now, then it could become a problem.'

The business is currently in talks with colleges in Norfolk, Exeter, Nottingham and Westminster about delivering the course.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to roll out a custom-build training programme for developers that want to create their own home using the Beattie Passive method.

Beattie Passive is currently working on housing association contracts and bespoke builds across the country.

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