As part of the construction industry’s nationwide ‘Open Doors’ week, eleven students from a Level 2 Bricklaying course at Bournemouth and Poole College had the opportunity to visit Kier’s construction site, where they are currently clearing the grounds in preparation for the construction of the college’s new teaching block.
On Monday, 18th March, students attended the site between 1-2 pm ahead of the ‘groundbreaking ceremony’ that followed two days later (20th March) which saw dignitaries mark the start of work on the college’s new multimillion pound building.
Open Doors is a Build UK initiative that gives young people, and those looking for a change of career, an opportunity to visit construction sites to see what happens behind the site hoardings, and to experience construction first-hand.
Students saw several videos of what the build will look like when completed and had the opportunity to talk with staff and ask questions. Students talked about ‘pile’ foundations which they had an exam on that week.
During a talk before the site visit, students were told that many staff in the industry were retiring from their roles and that fresh talent was being sought in a variety of jobs across construction. Students were advised to get a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card which is an industry skills certification you need to work on a building site. They were given information on how to obtain it.
Students donned PPU (Personal Protective Uniform) and went on to the site to view the current groundworks.
Matt Wilkes, senior project manager for Kier said: “We’ve had over 200 students from the college visit site during the Open Doors week and the feedback has been fantastic. We have managed to successfully demonstrate the various routes into the industry and explain what goes on within our sites, and it was great to be able to discuss careers in construction and the available apprenticeship and T level placements we have to offer over the next two years on this project.”
If you’re interested in studying any of our building trades, please see the following link: https://www.thecollege.co.uk/what-to-study/curriculum-areas/construction.
If you are interested in a career with Kier please follow this link: https://careers.kier.co.uk/jobs/home/.
