Highways Bulletin: Opportunities for Surrey’s Young People

Published on: 27 Oct, 2025
Updated on: 28 Oct, 2025

The information for this bulletin comes from Surrey County Council and is written by them.

Report potholes and highway issues here.

Award-Winning Pathway Opens DoorsSurrey Highways, in partnership with North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot), has won the Social Value Award at the Highways UK Awards 2025 for its ground breaking 16–18 Pathway initiative – a programme that’s opening up new opportunities for young people across Surrey.

The award-winning Construction Skills for Highway Maintenance course, co-designed with Nescot and launched in September 2024, offers a practical, barrier-free route into the highways industry.

With no GCSE entry requirements and a guaranteed interview for an apprenticeship or employment on completion, the course is helping young people gain hands-on experience and access to lasting careers.

“This award is a testament to what can be achieved when local organisations come together with a shared purpose,” said Simon Butt, Regional Director at Ringway. “We’re proud to be investing in Surrey’s future – creating real opportunities for young people and building a workforce that reflects the diversity and strength of our communities.”

The initiative is already making a real impact:

100 per cent retention of all new apprentices
39 per cent of new recruits from ethnic minority backgrounds
259 hours of school volunteering delivered
34 days of work experience provided
Four STEM events run to inspire future generations

With half of Surrey Highways’ supply chain partners now involved in apprentice recruitment, the programme’s success is being felt across the county. By working with educational charity SATRO, Nescot, and Eurovia Surfacing, Surrey Highways has created a model that can be replicated by colleges nationwide – strengthening local employment, boosting skills, and creating a more inclusive industry.

This award is more than a win – it’s a celebration of community-driven progress and lasting social value for Surrey.

Find out more about the construction courses at Nescot: