The Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants (WCoBM) is introducing a new bursary to support individuals in small, independent builders’ merchants in training and education. 

The Livery company is looking for high achievers in small merchants, or those keen to further their careers but are unable to do so due to their limited finances.

WCoBM is providing financial support from its charitable fund to help individuals enlist for the BMF Diploma (for trainee managers) and Foundation Degree in Merchanting, awarded by the University of the West of England.

WCoBM Master Stephen Turner said: “One of the key objectives of our Livery is to support training and education in our industry. We provide financial support for young students and at our annual City & Awards luncheon we present prizes to recognise their achievements. We’re now taking it a step further with a bursary for individuals in small merchant businesses that potentially don’t have the financial resources to fund professional qualifications personally or are unable to get the funding through their company.

“At a time where the construction industry is experiencing extreme skill shortages, it’s important we do all we can to encourage individuals to develop their learning and explore the vast opportunities available in the merchant sector,” continued the Master. “The next intake for the Diploma and Foundation Degree courses is March 2017, so we’re calling for individuals to come forward as soon as possible. The process is completely confidential and will be explained in detail on application.”

If you are interested write to WCoBM’s Clerk Virginia Rounding in the first instance, with a brief background about your role and business, explaining how the bursary will benefit your learning and career development. You can find the address details at www.wcobm.co.uk.

For more information on the BMF Diploma and Foundation Degree, visit www.bmf.org.uk and click through to Training & Development.