Where will a career in Construction take me?
Leeds College of Building Taster Day
On Monday 17th December a group of Year 11 boys from Bradford Academy were given the fantastic opportunity to visit Leeds College of Building (LCB). The 11 students are a group who meet regularly with teacher Andrew Sutcliffe, as he supports them in planning their next steps after sitting their GCSE’s.
The students arrived and were greeted by Chris, who made all the boys feel welcome and explained a little about what the day would involve. The students were treated as though they were real college students on their first day, and completed a mini-induction.
Hard hats, safety boots and high-vis jackets were handed out to the excited group and we made our way to the workshop. Here, the boys took part in a roofing taster, led by 2 current students. The students were shown how to tile and left to battle it out in 3 groups to produce the best roof! The students loved the hands on experience, but whilst they were working they were also taught some of the technical side of the trade, understanding the importance of leaving school with good mathematical skills. The LCB students told their own stories of how they came to be in the position they are now, and this was both motivating and inspiring – they are great role models for our students.
At lunchtime, the students ate in the canteen alongside LCB students and staff, and had access to pool tables and table tennis. This gave the students an all-round college experience of what it might be like to study at this campus.
In the afternoon session, we heard from an Apprentice who had begun his studies at LCB. He spoke of the choices he made in school, his career path up until now, and what his future might look like after completing his apprenticeship. Students also got to find out about the many other courses on offer at LCB, as well as roofing, and how to apply to courses for next September.
“The learners who participated thoroughly enjoyed their day. The day gave learners an invaluable hands on and informative experience that has given students the knowledge and understanding on; what it is like to attend LBC, future career paths, pay scales and also knowledge of how they can achieve. I must save special thanks and praise to the tutor (Chris), leaders; Marco, Jake and Jacob who’s passion for their trade, work and college shone through and which was inspiring for our young learners.”
Andrew Sutcliffe, Teacher at Bradford Academy
Written by Catherine Garbutt
HEPO, Bradford Academy
