Solihull students gain insight into construction careers through new pilot programme  

Students from a school in Solihull have gained insights into the construction industry through a new work experience pilot programme.

Fifteen students from Tudor Grange Academy, Kinghurst, took part in a learning journey combining activities such as workplace encounters, industry challenges, site visits and recruitment simulations.

All 15 students completed the activities with one student now progressing towards a construction career through employer mentoring.

The students’ perceptions of the range of careers available within the industry changed significantly after completing the programme.

Before taking part, many viewed the sector as primarily manual and male-dominated. The programme has challenged these misconceptions and sparked students’ interest in the industry.

One of the students, Charlie, said: "I found the Social Value Manager role most interesting. You get to speak to people and help."

Another student, Amina, said: "My art skills can be useful in the design roles." 

The programme also helped students develop key employability skills, including communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. 

Staff from Taylor Woodrow also noticed that the students grew in confidence. 

Taylor Woodrow's social value apprentice, Maisie Haddock, said: "They were really nervous going into it and then came away saying, ‘it was not as scary as I thought it would be.’ I think this partnership worked really well. Overall, it’s been absolutely brilliant." 

The programme created a coherent journey that enabled students to build relationships, develop skills, grow in confidence and explore future pathways, while bringing together careers education, employer engagement and modern work experience in a scalable model.

Councillor Heather Delaney, Solihull Council’s deputy leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business and Skills, said: “We are proud to have brought together Taylor Woodrow and Tudor Grange Academy, Kingshurst, for this pilot programme. Students developed valuable workplace skills, built confidence and gained insight into careers within the construction sector.

“As the new academic year has just started, we encourage employers to contact Solihull Careers Hub and find out how they can get involved.”