Home | New Roots Workshop

CONSTRUCTION SKILLS ALTERNATIVE PROVISION IN EXETER

A supportive workshop space where young people learn vocational skills at their own pace. Alongside practical training, they develop interpersonal, problem-solving and critical thinking skills to support further education, apprenticeship and employment pathways

Not in full time education? At risk of becoming NEET?

The construction industry needs more young people. New Roots is here to support young people that want to enter the industry.

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Statistics from last year

92%

Positive feedback our young people have reported to their parents, about their time with New Roots.

85%

Parents’ score for witnessing improved behaviours in their young person.

92%

parents surveyed would strongly recommend New Roots.

Parent Testimonials

“New Roots has been a very positive experience for my son, he now has a passion and purpose to work towards. He speaks highly of New Roots and says he wishes he could go every day… I never need to worry when he’s at New Roots which is wonderful as a Mum.”

“Great provision for children that do far better in practical studies.”

“Thank you for providing New Roots. I only wish more young people had access to it, but we’re really glad we heard of you when we did. Giving young people the opportunity to socialise with their peers, re-gain some self worth and pick up skills without the restrictions and difficulties of school is so valuable. Thank you.”

“Thanks so much for your perseverance and not giving up on him it’s really made a difference to him and his life choices.”

How we help

Our Approach

Delivered in a dedicated construction environment, New Roots Workshop offers young people between the ages of 14 and 18 the opportunity to re-engage with their learning, in a space outside a classroom setting where they can find and engage in tasks that help them to develop new skills. Offered on a referral basis, we support young people at risk of exclusion, with poor attendance or struggling with school or further education.

We plan our sessions to meet the needs of each individual young person. Our young people will learn trade based, vocational skills including: carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing, plastering & other associated trades.

Our Vision

Vocational skills for a positive future. To empower young people with the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive and make a positive impact in their lives and communities.

Shortage of Construction workers

In spring/summer 2025 the Government confirmed a “dire shortage” of construction workers. Meeting future housing targets is expected to require tens of thousands of new recruits, including around 20,000 bricklayers and 20,000 groundworkers, 8,000 carpenters, 2,400 plumbers, 3,200 plasterers, 1,200 tilers, and 2,400 roofers.

The Home Builders Federation (HBF) said that while the industry can sustain current building levels, it lacks a sufficient talent pipeline to expand. Recruitment is hampered by factors such as poor perceptions of the trade in schools, limited training and apprenticeships, and the high costs of employing apprentices.

Empowering Young WITH PRACTICAL SKILLS

Our work

We offer a range of structured and flexible vocational packages designed to meet the needs of each young person. These align with school term times and are typically delivered in 6 week blocks.

New Roots provision offers each young person 1-2 days per week, on a 6 week renewable basis up to an academic year.

Make a Referral

Case Studies

THRIVE IN DIFFERENT WAYS

Our case studies highlight young people who have gone on to thrive in different ways—moving straight into employment, progressing to further education, or securing apprenticeships.

Each story shows how, with the right guidance, skills, and confidence, our learners can turn potential into a positive and purposeful future.

Read Case Studies