HS2 has played a key role in founding one of six ‘green’ apprenticeships that will be marked with the Coronation emblem in recognition of their sustainability credentials.

The Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner (level 4) Apprenticeship was selected by industry experts, from a long-list of 200 apprenticeships, as one of six qualifications which set the gold-standard for green skills training.

Skills and employment leaders from major UK employers including HS2 Ltd, Royal London, Fujitsu, NG Bailey, Morgan Sindall, Network Rail and Sainsburys, collaborated as part of a Trailblazer group, led by legal firm Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP, to develop this new apprenticeship standard.

The team worked together for over 18 months to document evidence of the industry skills gap and make the case for creating the new level 4 apprenticeship.

The trailblazing team demonstrated the vital role the apprenticeship would play in their respective organisations, and how it would help to boost the green industry and support economic growth.

HS2’s Senior Legacy Manger for the West Midlands, Julie Venn-Morton, was part of the pioneering group that won the support of the Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Standards, who gave the green light to launch the apprenticeship in 2021.

She said: “HS2 will be net zero carbon in operation, and every day we are challenging our supply chain to help us cut carbon in construction as we strive to be one of the world’s most environmentally friendly infrastructure projects.

“We’ve committed to creating 2,000 apprenticeships for people of all ages, and we knew this would be a valuable addition to the range of skills and employment opportunities we offer.

"This role is instrumental in how we support the government’s drive to reach net zero and plays a valuable role in the work we do supporting communities affected by HS2’s construction.”

HS2 Ltd was one of the first UK-based companies to recruit for the new role when it formally launched in 2021.

Beatriz Ramos Albert, 32, a former lawyer from Valencia, moved to Birmingham and joined HS2 Ltd to take up the new career opportunity.

Beatriz, who now lives in Hall Green, Birmingham said: “I am passionate about people and driving change which enhances the lives of individuals and communities, so this was the perfect role for me.

“I’m almost two-years into my apprenticeship, and I’m delighted that this role has received this accolade.

"HS2 is setting new standards in the way it delivers this monumental project and thousands of people, businesses and communities are benefitting along the way and I’m proud to play a part in that and look forward to what the future holds.”

More information about employment opportunities with HS2.