Shaping the future of construction – how our summer programme is making construction a career of choice
Shaping the future of construction – how our summer programme is making construction a career of choice
As part of our commitment to making construction a career of choice for a more diverse range of students, we reimagined our summer programme.
Instead of the usual 17 to 18-year-olds we’ve hosted in previous years, we invited 14 to 15-year-olds from five schools across Surrey.
These 38 students were at a pivotal stage in their development. Many had been identified as unlikely to continue in further education after their GCSEs or were unaware of the training opportunities available to them. 50% were eligible for Free School Meals and 50% had special educational needs.
At a glance
1
week
38
students
5
delivery partners
5
Surrey schools
4
guest speakers
1
team building activity
Several students lacked the confidence of their peers, and their schools felt that participating in the programme could help them recognise their strengths and feel more confident interacting with others. One student reflected: “I learnt that I’m not that shy and can be confident. It has surprised me how easy it has been to make new friends.”
Making a positive impact
This year, we also moved the venue to North East Surrey College of Technology (NESCOT), just down the road from our head office, and welcomed students from local schools.
Throughout the week, students explored both the industry and themselves – uncovering passions and skills they didn’t realise they had.
They attended inspiring talks from Peter Cluff (High Sheriff of Surrey), Adam Corbally, and our chairman, Tim Wates. Adam’s talk, in particular, had a lasting impact, with one student saying: “I’m proud of pushing myself outside my comfort zone. I felt more confident to throw myself into this week after Adam’s talk.”
Hands-on experiences included a Building Information Modelling (BIM) workshop and a collaborative timber structure build. One student shared: “I was pleased with how I used the equipment in the workshop – I was better at cutting wood than I thought I’d be. It was harder than using manual saws that we have at school! I was interested in carpentry before, and this week has made me more keen.”
There was even time for team building – and fear-facing – at Go Ape! These activities helped students discover new strengths and build confidence. One student said, “I realise I underestimate myself and how much I can do. I never thought I’d be able to work in a team with new people. I’ve gained a lot of confidence this week. I can now go up to new people and start a conversation. I’d recommend it to others.”
“I feel I’ve been able to do more as I’ve had a chance to. This week has made me realise I can do more than I thought by sticking with something.”
Building confidence, skills and futures
Looking at how many of this year’s students overcame fears, discovered new skills, and left with greater confidence and a clearer sense of their potential, it’s clear the summer programme was a real success.
We set out to help shape the futures of the young people who will one day shape the future of construction – and that’s exactly what we did. As one student put it: “This week has made me realise I can do more than I thought by sticking with something.”
The impact
68%
reported increased confidence
72%
felt their employability skills had improved
90%
had a stronger knowledge of career opportunities in the construction sector
85%
thought construction sounded exciting
£16,900
social impact
We’re proud to have played a part in their journey and excited to see where it leads next.
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