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Over 300 students encouraged to ‘Give Construction a Try’

Thursday, 21 March, 2019

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Construction Event

Cathedral Academy students with Alex Simmons and Jamie Jones-Buchanan from Rugby AM

On 20 March, over 300 students from across the Wakefield district participated in over 40 different hands-on construction related activities held at the Wakefield College Castleford campus.

Partners from industry and education are working together collaboratively to inform young people about the opportunities within the construction industry. 

The focus of the event was to inspire young people in West Yorkshire to consider a career in construction and raise awareness of the diverse range of roles and opportunities the industry has to offer.

The event also showcased a wide variety of activities, ranging from highly technical to hands on roles, aiming to challenge the perceived stereotypes of people that work in construction.

There were over 40 interactive activities on display, ranging from CAD design and surveying, the use of drones in construction through to joinery and brickwork.

To energise and enthuse the students, the event was hosted by Rugby League stars Jamie Jones-Buchanan and Alex Simmons from Rugby AM.

All partners involved in the GCAT Event have a genuine commitment to raise awareness of the amazing careers available within the Construction Industry and address the skills gap currently being faced.  By bringing business, educators and industry specialists together we are able to have a greater impact and send a clear message to young people and their schools that Construction really is a great option.

Wakefield College Principal, Sam Wright, said, “Wakefield College is at the forefront of working closely with industry to ensure our students have the greatest choice of careers or further study when they leave us. It’s a cornerstone of our ethos to prepare them for their next steps. This partnership is a great example of how collaborative working and investment in our District, for our communities can change people’s lives by bringing new opportunities and meet the skills gaps identified by employers.”

Claire Jubb (Higher Education Progression Officer) from Minsthorpe Community College said, “Students from Minsthorpe Community College have attended this event a number of times which improves year on year – the activities on offer and professionals in attendance raise awareness of the extensive and diverse range of career opportunities within the Construction Industry and inspire our students to achieve their full potential. A must attend event for schools in West Yorkshire!”