Aden Contracting Ltd Joins Bedford College Group to Boost Construction Careers for Students

The Bedford College Group has announced that Aden Contracting Ltd has joined its Employer Partnership Scheme, strengthening industry links and creating valuable opportunities for students across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire campuses.

Aden Contracting Ltd is a well-established groundworks and civil engineering contractor based in Bedford, delivering projects across the Home Counties, Cambridgeshire, Oxfordshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Northamptonshire, and North London. The company provides a comprehensive range of services, including drainage, bulk earthworks, reinforced concrete, and civil infrastructure works, supporting projects across multiple sectors. Renowned for its commitment to quality, health and safety, and sustainable working practices, Aden also places strong emphasis on developing its people, actively supporting skills development and long-term career pathways within the construction industry.

Aden has a long-standing commitment to apprenticeship provision and currently has a number of apprentices, which already includes a Level 4 Civil Engineering Senior Technician apprentice studying at Bedford College.

The Bedford College Group has worked with Aden for several years, and this latest step marks a strengthened partnership, focused on preparing students for successful careers in construction and the built environment.

By joining The Bedford College Group Employer Partnership Scheme, Aden has committed to taking part in various engagements throughout the academic year, giving students regular opportunities to learn from industry professionals and gain real-world insight that builds confidence, raises aspirations, and improves employability.

Over the coming months, Aden will visit Bedford College to speak with Year 1 and Year 2 brickwork students about careers and apprenticeships in construction. Students will also hear directly from an Aden site manager about what working on site is really like, including site inductions, the importance of correct personal protective equipment (PPE), punctuality, getting to site, and the professional standards of communication and behaviour expected in the workplace. The visit will include a practical groundworks activity in the brickwork workshops, giving students the chance to see industry methods up close, get involved and ask questions.

In addition, Aden has signed up to be part of The Bedford College Group’s Industry Advisory Boards and will be attending the launch event in February, supporting the Group to ensure courses continue to reflect the skills and expectations of today’s construction sector. The company has also expressed an interest in donating equipment, offering site tours for students, and taking part in careers events, further increasing student access to meaningful employer-led experiences.

Rachel Roberts, Partnership Manager at The Bedford College Group, said: “We’re delighted to formally welcome Aden Contracting Ltd into our Employer Partnership Scheme. They have been a fantastic supporter of the Group for many years, and this partnership builds on an already strong relationship. Through Aden’s ongoing engagement with our students, students will gain vital insight into the realities of working in construction, from site expectations to hands-on technical skills. These experiences are invaluable in helping students build confidence, develop professional behaviours, and feel fully prepared for employment.”

Abby Smith, Sustainability Manager at Aden Contracting Ltd, said: “Developing future talent is incredibly important to us as a business. Partnering with The Bedford College Group allows us to engage with students early, share our knowledge, and help prepare them for the expectations of working on-site and within a professional team. This partnership is about investing in people, giving students the skills, experience, and insight they need to succeed in the construction industry.”

The Employer Partnership Scheme is a key part of The Bedford College Group’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and employment. By working closely with trusted employers like Aden Contracting Ltd, the Group helps ensure students gain not only qualifications but also practical experience, industry knowledge, and workplace confidence. In return, employers benefit from access to a pipeline of motivated, work-ready talent from within the local area, who are equipped with the skills and mindset their industries demand. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to building brighter futures through education, training, and meaningful employment.

For more information on The Bedford College Group Employer Partnership Scheme, contact the team at partnerships@bedford.ac.uk