Surrey students became property developers and construction workers for the week at a construction summer school. The hands-on work experience course for Year 10 students has been created by Wates hosted with Nescot in Epsom and part-funded by Surrey County Council.
Students from six schools across Surrey took part in the innovative event. The students, aged 14 and 15, spent a week exploring careers in construction and property.
They created plans for a housing development and presenting their ideas to industry professionals.
They also experienced a current Wates Residential construction site using Nescot’s immersive virtual reality pod.
Plus they tried operating heavy machinery using advanced construction simulators, practiced carpentry skills building timber structures and developed teamwork and problem solving at an outdoor activity centre.
The scheme was run by development, building and property maintenance company Wates Group. It was part funded by Surrey County Council. Delivery partners include Nescot, Neilcott Construction, community interest company LMP Action and social enterprise Serious about Youth.
About the construction summer school
The programme saw employers, education, community organisations and local government working together to offer modern work experience to the next generation of local workforce.
Almost 40 students took part in an exciting, interactive week. There was the chance to try new things, step outside their comfort zones and build confidence.
They left with a better understanding of how their strengths and interests could translate into future roles. It also opened their eyes to careers they may not have previously considered.
The programme has been running since 2017. It supports students interested in apprenticeships and vocational courses beyond their GCSEs, rather than A levels.
By offering exposure to college life, varied career options and positive role models, it encourages, inspires, and broadens students’ horizons.
The impact of the course can be significant. Following last year’s programme, 90% of participants reported a stronger understanding of career opportunities in construction. Plus 85% said the industry sounded exciting and 72% felt their employability skills had improved.
Construction summer school – reaction
A summer school student said: “I was nervous on Monday but I’ve realised I can make friends…coming here has made me feel I’ve still got it.”
Julie Kapsalis, CEO and Principal at Nescot, said: “This scheme is incredible, bringing together industry experts and our state-of-the-art learning facilities to inspire young people who are often right at the beginning of thinking about a potential career. The programme has given them a glimpse at everything from property development and project management to construction work, architecture and engineering. I’m proud of what they achieved, and I hope they will go forward with new confidence as they consider their options for the future.”
Su Pickerill, Head of Social Value at Wates Group, said: “The summer programme is a great example of how we aim to be brilliant locally, working alongside our communities to create opportunities that truly make a difference. It’s been inspiring to see young people step beyond their comfort zones, and I hope this experience has helped unlock their potential.”
Helping young people across Surrey
The partnership working between Wates and Nescot is supported by Surrey County Council as part of a wider project to help young people into work.
Other programmes include Experience Days. These invite young people into the college for a day to provide meaningful experiences of college life and curriculum areas. They understand their options, feel supported, and become confident about coming to a college after their GCSEs.
Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “This investment highlights the opportunities available in one of Surrey’s growing sectors and demonstrates Surrey’s commitment to innovative pathways into further education and employment. By working in partnership with employers, training providers and colleges, we can help more young people develop the skills they need, support business growth, and create positive outcomes for Surrey’s economy while ensuring no one is left behind.”
Neilcott Construction supported the practical element of the programme. This includes arranging skilled carpenters to guide students through reading drawings, using tools safely and constructing the timber towers.
Nescot offers courses on a range of construction trades including highways maintenance, brickwork, carpentry and joinery, plastering, plumbing and electrical installation.
It also offers a wide range of other courses for school leavers and adults. This includes motor vehicles, animal care, hair and beauty, computing and IT, performing arts, childcare and health and social care.
Discover more about studying at Nescot by calling 020 8394 3038, visiting www.nescot.ac.uk or emailing adviceteam@nescot.ac.uk.
Search training providers across Surrey via the STEP Surrey provider directory.
