Smethwick pupils learn how to construct careers in homebuilding at exclusive school event
Smethwick pupils were given an insight into the workings of a live housing development by Countryside, one of the UK’s leading home builders specialising in placemaking and regeneration, with a special visit to its Wards Keep development in nearby Wednesbury.
Countryside welcomed the group of 16 pupils, from Shireland Collegiate Academy, for a tour of its Heathfield Lane housing development, providing the students a closer look at the homes currently under construction.
The visit was organised to support the school’s ‘Grand Designs’ project, which encouraged the 12 and 13 year-olds to create a ‘new home pack’, including floor plans and internal designs. The pupils were given the opportunity to experience the homebuilding procress first hand with Countryside - from the construction of timber frames to the interior design techniques used in show homes.
During their visit, the pupils heard from Countryside’s Health and Safety Manager, amongst others, who spoke with them about careers in construction and how homes are built, including the materials used throughout the process. Additionally, they were taught about the safety precautions required when working on, or living near, a live construction site.
Adam Daniels, Regional Operations Director, Partnerships West Midlands, Countryside, commented: “The visit from Shireland Collegiate Academy was a brilliant opportunity for the children to experience the homebuilding process first hand, as well as learning about the in-depth safety procedures that Countryside follows. We hope that our guests were able to take away a greater understanding of how homes are designed and that it’s inspired some of them to become the next generation of housebuilders or designers.”
Ben Brogan, L4L Teacher at Shireland Collegiate Academy, added: “the Wards Keep visit was a fantastic experience for our pupils, who were able to meet housebuilding experts and put their newfound knowledge to the test with our ‘Grand Designs’ school project. This is a trip the pupils will not forget and they will be able to pass on valuable industry knowledge to their peers.”
Wards Keep comprises three and four bedroom homes that are available through a number of home buying initiatives, such as the Government’s Help to Buy scheme.
For more information about the new homes at Wards Keep go to www.wardskeep.co.uk or visit the sales office at Wards Keep, Heathfields Lane, Wednesbury WS10 8 QG.
