Students from Brockington College in Enderby took part in a special event held at local development New Lubbesthorpe to learn more about the housebuilding industry.
Hosted by David Wilson Homes, the eight students involved gained practical, supervised experience of construction skills such as bricklaying, plastering and carpentry.
The aim of the visit, which was organised by Jo Ling, Employment, Skills and Training Coordinator for Blaby District Council in conjunction with the developer, was to demonstrate to the students the different skills and processes involved in building a new home and to inspire them to progress their studies to the next level or pursue a full-time career in house building after leaving college.
Councillor Sheila Scott, Portfolio Holder for Planning, Housing Strategy, Economic & Community Development, said:
“We were delighted to be involved with this innovative initiative to help strengthen the employability of students within the District. Thanks to David Wilson Homes, students from the Enderby College have been able to gain a practical insight into the construction sector, and open up options for a career in the housebuilding industry.”
The students were given a tour of three ‘stock plots’ to give an overview of what trades are involved at the development, before splitting into two groups to have a go at bricklaying.
There was also a question and answer session with the Site Manager, where students were able to explore more about how to get into the industry.
Daisie, a student at Brockington College said:
“I have learnt just how many trades are involved in completing one house. I know I want to get site experience and I can do this through an apprenticeship.”
David Wilson Homes are one of the housebuilders currently involved with the Beggars Lane development.
John Reddington, Managing Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said:
“We’re always on the look-out for the homebuilders of the future, and we wanted to give local students a glimpse of what it’s like to work on a new homes development like New Lubbesthorpe. We hope that the students at Brockington College had a good day with our team and that they all took away some useful information.”
To find out more and register interest in apprenticeships and careers at New Lubbesthorpe, contact Jo Ling on 0116 272 7583 or email jo.ling@blaby.gov.uk.