about us
“The Big Bang, a SPARK that originated all the matter in the Universe"
Javier Yanes
The UK is amid a skills crisis. For decades the nation has undervalued skills and we must reduce the production of greenhouse gasses for our future generations, however we simply do not have the green skills required to make these improvements.
A change is desperately needed, a SPARK is needed.
A catalyst for change, The Spark Group was founded in 2023 by Daniel Canavan to address these issues and it will lead the promotion and training of skills for young people, and plugging the wider skills gaps.
SPARK will work collaboratively with schools, colleges, employers and other partners to facilitate change, upskilling and sustainability.
With over 25 years in senior and executive level leadership roles, Daniel Canavan brings experience and innovation to the further education and housing sectors.
BEFORE THE SPARK......
In 1996, Daniel started a project called Homeworks here in Stoke-on-Trent with friends Tony Clarke and Richard Allmark. The initial aim was to help elderly members of the community maintain their gardens, but Daniel's father, Sean Canavan spotted an opportunity to develop the project further to use this as a vehicle and provide work experience, education and emotional support for young people.
Homeworks went on to become a nationally recognised service and provided work experience for over 10,000 young people, predominantly from the Stoke-on-Trent's most disadvantaged areas, whilst delivering maintenance and construction contracts worth over £4m annually for local authorities and housing associations.
Our Vision
A place where everyone is enabled to use their talents to succeed. A future where individuals thrive in green careers, contributing to a greener world.
Our Mission
Discover hidden talents and skills (SPARKS)
Empower individuals, especially young people, by bridging the skills gaps in the green industry and construction sectors.
Ignite positive change, sustainability, and create life-changing opportunities.
We will do this through collaboration with employers, education providers, and community partners.
Our Values
Work collectively with partners for impactful solutions.
Sustainability: Promote eco-friendly practices and reduce emissions.
Integrity: Uphold high ethical standards in all interactions.
Social Impact: Prioritise positive change and opportunities for youth.
A happy, anti-bureaucratic team that believes in the potential of all.
SPARK
"a small but noticeable trace of some quality that might become stronger”
vocabulary.com