Apprenticeships: Yorkshire trades enjoy record earnings as Hudson invests in next generation of talent
Yorkshire’s construction industry is defying economic headwinds with self-employed tradespeople earning an average of £1,025 per week in March – a 3.2% monthly increase, according to latest pay data from Hudson Contract.
The strong performance comes as the Bridlington-based firm continues its support of the East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, sponsoring the construction category to recognise individuals who show exceptional skills development, teamwork and growth potential.
Hudson Contract managing director Ian Anfield said: “Despite wider economic stagnation and challenges in the housing market, our latest payroll figures show the construction industry remains remarkably resilient. Yorkshire’s performance is particularly impressive, with strong demand for skilled operatives and great opportunities for young people entering the industry.”
A family-run business, Hudson Contract provides CIS compliance and employment law protection to over 2,600 construction firms across England and Wales. Alongside this, it runs a flagship Apprentice Sponsorship Scheme to help small firms take on and train the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Launched in 2011, the scheme has so far supported 278 young people, primarily in coastal and rural communities where opportunities are limited. It provides £3,000 in funding per apprentice, along with a £500 completion bonus, helping to ease the financial burden for small employers. This year, the programme expanded from 30 to 40 apprenticeships annually.
The company’s involvement in apprenticeships is rooted in personal experience, with both founder and chairman David Jackson and managing director Ian Anfield having started their careers as apprentices.
An apprenticeship provides one of the most solid foundations for a career in construction and becoming an entrepreneur. Young people learn a valuable trade and enter the world with skills that are in demand. It’s about being enthusiastic, staying committed and having your eyes wide open to the possibilities of where your career could take you.”
Mr Anfield added: “With major projects starting this year, we’re seeing substantial investment that will continue to drive demand for skilled trades. Looking ahead, national planning reforms should get more spades in the ground, boosting the economy and opening up plenty more work for skilled trades in Yorkshire.”
Learn more about the Hudson Apprentice Sponsorship Scheme here: www.hudsoncontract.co.uk/about-us/supporting-apprenticeships