Over February half-term, over 130 students aged 14-19 from across the UK took part in our Virtual Work Experience Programme.
The series of programmes were delivered by our in-house social value teams, with various Willmott Dixon employees, including senior leaders, donating their time to talk to the students about their route into the construction industry, share information regarding their roles and answer any questions.
Alongside our in-house programme, we ran an industry collaboration programme where we partnered with Balfour Beatty plc, AMEY UK PLC and Wates Group.
During the week-long programme, students learnt about careers in construction, planning and project management and leadership and communication - all whilst working remotely in a team - essential skills for today's workplace.
The students were tasked with designing a project plan to build a school. We had some fantastic submissions, with all students considering environmental and social sustainability when designing a school fit for their future.
The programmes were well received as reflected in the feedback, with many students saying their confidence, ability to communicate and work in a team had improved through taking part.
One student said: “I have gained confidence with talking, leadership and working in a team. I have also become more open-minded about climate change and the future of the industry."
Another said the week was “very informative” and has convinced them to consider a career in construction, “something I never thought I would even think of as a career before. It has also helped me realise that I would be quite successful in the industry.”
100% of the students who took part in the industry collaboration programme said they would consider a job in the construction industry as a result.
Delivered via a mixture of Teams and the Speakers for Schools platform, our programme was designed to be delivered virtually to enable us to continue community activities through the pandemic. For more opportunities, sign up to Speakers for Schools here.
