Build UK Open Doors: Inspiring future talent through real world site experiences
As part of this year’s Open Doors, delivered by Build UK in partnership with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), two of our projects – Oasis Academy Daventry Road in Bristol and Hanover Street in London – opened their doors this week to students and local community members, offering a rare opportunity to experience the construction industry first-hand.
These visits gave attendees valuable insight into how major projects are delivered, allowed them to meet the teams behind the work, and showcased the breadth of career pathways available across the construction sector.
Hanover Street, London: Showcasing construction at the heart of Oxford Street
Led by Social Value Managers Sally Kinchin and Martine Corbett, the events strengthened our connections with local communities and reinforced our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for future talent. From witnessing genuine collaboration on site to learning about the technical details behind each scheme, visitors were able to see just how varied and purposeful work in construction can be.
This was a fantastic experience for the young people! It gave them clarity on what they would like to do in the future.”
Amisha Son
CYT Coordinator
Feedback from students:
I had such a wonderful experience. Everyone was very welcoming and answered every question we asked. As I am interested in mechanical engineering, I got to meet Andrew, who was really kind in explaining what he does on this project. I had the opportunity to ask him questions, and it widened my interest in engineering. Very grateful to have taken part in the Wates Open Doors site visit and would do it again!”
This experience was really helpful and informative. It gave me a great understanding about the different areas of construction and how I could possibly fit into the industry in the future.”
My experience of Open Doors here at Wates was very valuable! The team were very accommodating and kind. We asked many questions, and were able to get more understanding of the hands on experience. This helped me develop a greater insight into my interests in construction. I believe this was by far my favourite site visit. Many thanks to George, Martine and Andrew for a great day.”
Great to have a clearer and raw insight into what Project Managers really do on site as this is a path I would like to follow. I got honest opinions from the Wates team, very helpful.”
It was beneficial learning the effort that goes into keeping the surrounding community and the client informed and happy. I enjoyed listening to the professionals speak so positively about their roles on the project.”
Oasis Academy Daventry Road, Bristol: Opening pathways through education-led regeneration
Students and local residents visiting The Oasis Academy Daventry Road project were given a tour of the live construction site, where they learned how a major education facility is brought to life and the wide range of disciplines involved – from engineering and design to project management and specialist trades.
The team showcased not only the physical progress of the build but also the social value being delivered for the surrounding community, including engaging with local schools and colleges, supporting local charities and long-term investment in the area. For many attendees, the chance to see daily life on a live site offered a realistic and motivating perspective on what working in construction truly involves.
It was great to be able to visit the new school and see all the new facilities, which look amazing. I look forward to seeing the school open in September.”
Resident, whose child will be coming to the school in September
Having supported Open Doors for the past six years, it’s a great way to connect with our local communities and give neighbours a real insight into what happens on our sites. Oasis Academy is a fantastic project to showcase, and we’re proud to open our doors and share the work taking place here.”
Sally Kinchin
Social Value Manager, Wates Construction South
At the Hanover project on London’s iconic Regent Street, visitors – including a group of engaged Construction Youth Trust students – were given a behind-the-scenes look at the delivery of a high-profile urban development in one of the capital’s busiest and most complex environments. Attendees were introduced to the planning, precision, and teamwork required to manage a site of this scale amid the daily demands of a central London location.
Guided by the project team, visitors explored how the scheme is contributing to the transformation of the area and learned about the specialist skills and innovation involved in bringing it to completion. For many, including the students, the experience highlighted the unseen effort, coordination, and craftsmanship behind the hoardings they pass every day.
It’s a real pleasure to open the doors to this exciting project on one of London’s busiest streets, Oxford Street. People often walk past construction sites without realising how much work and collaboration go into delivering them. Open Doors gives us the chance to show what happens behind the hoardings and highlight the wide range of careers available in construction.”
Martine Corbett
Social Value Manager, Wates Construction London
Looking ahead: Inspiring the next generation
This year’s Open Doors events at Oasis Academy Daventry Road and Hanover demonstrated the power of opening our sites to the community, showcasing not only the complexity and creativity behind construction but also the many rewarding future careers it holds. By giving students and local residents a real insight into the industry, we continue to champion skills development and nurture the next generation of talent.
Our teams remain committed to creating inclusive opportunities, strengthening local relationships, and ensuring our projects leave a positive legacy that extends far beyond the buildings themselves. We look forward to taking part in future Open Doors initiatives and continuing to inspire those who may one day help shape the places we build.
