Thumbs up for leading housebuilder giving students opportunity to sample careers available within construction industry

Students from four schools in Exeter have been given the chance to learn more about the construction industry and the career opportunities available to them thanks to an event hosted by Persimmon Homes South West.

On Thursday, students from West Exe, Isca Academy, St James School and St Lukes Church of England School visited Persimmon South West’sAshworth Place development in Exeter as part of the 'Jump into Apprenticeships!' project.

The pilot project aims to raise the profile and understanding of apprenticeships and technical education to young people, as well as teachers and parents.

During the event, students were given a Health and Safety briefing, followed by an insight into the careers and apprenticeships available within the construction industry before enjoying a site tour around Persimmon’s Ashworth Place development which is located less than 5 miles to the east of Exeter.

The students then went from listening to hands-on learning as they each took part in a Bricklaying activity as the housebuilder sought to provide them with an engaging insight into the construction sector.

Commenting on the event Persimmon’s Regional Apprenticeship Manager, Andy Wallis said: “It was wonderful to be able to work with these students as part of this pilot project showcasing the range of opportunities that are available within the construction industry.

“At this event the students were very engaged, asking lots of questions around the careers available and also the build process whilst others demonstrated impressive bricklaying skills.

“Persimmon does more than just build good quality, affordable homes, and we are committed to providing local people with employment opportunities and quality apprenticeships.

“As a leading housebuilder in the South West we are keen to work closely with local schools and colleges to give real life experiences to as many young people as possible, and help them see that they can have a successful and rewarding career within this industry.”

Following last Thursday’s event, Laura Hutton, Business Development Co-Ordinator at Exeter College said: “A huge thank you from Exeter College to Persimmon homes for hosting our Jump Into Apprenticeships group last week.

“The Open Site event gave our young students a unique insight into a live, working building site, understanding the house build process and an overview of the exciting, varied career options in Construction. Even getting their hands dirty trying their hands at bricklaying and getting a glimpse at their future world of work!!

“An amazing way to inspire the future generation and help these students to understand their path to potential!”

The open site visit was organised through Heart of the South West Careers Hub, one of the largest careers hubs in England.

As well as working with employers, it links with training providers, further education colleges, universities and career professionals to ensures that careers education is inspiring, engaging and relevant to the ever-changing world around us.

Following the open site day, Strategic Lead for Heart of the South West Careers Hub, Jo Skeel said: “The Heart of the South West Careers Hub are so grateful to Persimmon for hosting a fantastic day for the young people on our ‘Jump into Apprenticeships’ programme.

“The Open Site event gave the group a real insight into the construction sector and the opportunities available locally.

“Workplace experiences help our young people find their best next step so thank you Permission for inspiring our next generation.”