Creating constructive learning opportunities for local students

Twenty local students from Beauchamps High School built on their classroom knowledge by visiting a real-life construction site at the Craylands Estate, Basildon.

Morgan Sindall Property Services (MSPS) – Basildon Council’s property services contractor – hosted the students’ visit to a major housing improvement project at the estate.

The visitors – who are working towards the City and Guilds national accreditation in construction – learned about the external wall installation scheme which MSPS is delivering. As well as finding out about the materials used, construction process and the skills needed to deliver the work, they also learned more about construction careers and local job and training opportunities.

The student group met MSPS staff from across the company including the health and safety manager, project manager, and resident liaison officers and a subcontractor partner working with MSPS in Basildon.

Beauchamps High School’s Head of Construction Teacher Mr Dean Burkett says “It was wonderful that the students were given the opportunity to see a construction site first hand. Their induction really informed them about apprenticeships and the opportunities available in the local area. It has been a very positive experience and great to build a relationship with Morgan Sindall, I look forward to arranging future site visits.”

MSPS Site Manager Carly Sampson adds: “As a company, we proactively look for opportunities such as this to directly support the communities we work in. The students were able to interact with our staff as they received a lesson on the tools, equipment and methods used at our external wall insulation project. We’re also very keen to encourage more girls and young women to consider careers in property and construction, so it was good to see two female students among the group who visited.”

The students’ visit took place as part of MSPS’ social value programme through which the company delivers additional initiatives designed to meet the wider needs of the communities where it works, creating permanent benefits.

Councillor Don Morris, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Housing Committee, comments: “This was a great opportunity for the students at Beauchamps High School and I am delighted our property services contractor was on hand to provide so much value to their curriculum with this visit. It is crucial young people get the opportunity to have these experiences which can really shape their future career options.

Beauchamps High School is one of six partner schools that MSPS is working with through the company’s contract with Basildon Council.