Young people take steps towards the construction industry

A group of young people have successfully completed the Morrison Construction ‘Virtual Work Placement’ week which Bridges Project delivers in partnership with Morrison Construction.

All participants at the work placement want to work in the construction industry and understand the importance of engaging with training opportunities to help develop their skillset.

The Community Skills team at Morrison Construction Building Central devised the virtual work placement scheme after the traditional face-to-face work experience placements were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The programme was developed through virtual and digital media, mirroring the type of information that would be presented in a more traditional format.

As part of the placement, the group had to complete five modules, covering Carpentry and Joinery, Bricklaying, Health and Safety, Waste Management and Employability. They had to complete tasks set by different business teams and carry out research around the importance of Health and Safety and Waste Management. They completed risk assessments and devised a waste management plan for a brand new school project.

On completion of the placement, all seven in the group were successfully awarded a City and Guilds Digital Badge, which they can include in their CV.

The feedback from the group was very positive. Here is what some of the participants said:

 ‘The placement has opened my mind to the industry and has made me more confident.’

‘It was very enjoyable and interesting.’

‘It has made me want to work harder to get into the industry.’

‘It has pushed me to want to really focus on getting a job in the industry.’

‘I now know more about the skills needed to be a joiner.’

The group will soon be sitting the REHIS Health and Safety Certificate with Bridges Project and will then progress to gain the CSCS General Operative Card.

Bridges Project Employability Support Worker Samantha Lamond stated: ‘Having the opportunity to work in partnership with Morrison Construction is fantastic. Being able to offer sector based training courses and qualifications is invaluable for your young people. It will help them to develop their skills and knowledge of a fantastic sector, opening up more opportunities for them.’