A local construction company has developed a formal way to help young people learn more about the industry after welcoming two Walsall College students on placements. Elizabeth Bureca and Abigail Wint are gaining experience with JB Construction. They have so far completed three out of five two-week block placements as part of their T Level in Construction – Design, Surveying and Planning.

Each block has provided opportunities for them to experience site management, site engineering, quantity surveying and health and safety, among other business operations. Their work ethic and progress have earned them the praise of construction director, Charles Lawton. “T Levels were new to our business, as was the idea of supporting students for short bursts of time,” he said.

“It’s rewarding to see Elizabeth and Abigail build on their knowledge and grow in confidence while we in turn we benefit from their ideas and enthusiasm.”

Charles Lawton continued: “This industry placement framework has encouraged us to structure our work experience so that every person taking part can reflect on what they have seen and learnt, and give us feedback. Elizabeth and Abigail have been doing presentations at the end of each block placement so we can celebrate the impact of our support and keep championing their progress.

“We hope to follow this process with others and, in doing so, continue to actively invest in future industry talent and skills.”

Aspiring quantity surveyor, Elizabeth has seen the difference her industry placement has made. “Coming here on placement has made me more confident about speaking to others and completing ‘real work’ tasks,” she said.

“I can look at drawings and know exactly how to measure different areas. I never imagined doing this six months ago.

“I started my T Level with an interest in architecture and have since been inspired by the budget management side of building projects and working closely with contractors.

“The T Level course and this placement have been the right way for me to learn and improve.” Student, Abigail has also used her industry placement experience to help define her next steps.

“I’ve really enjoyed the health and safety side of the industry, so that’s something I’d like to move into in the future,” she said.

“I see my next steps as either finding a degree apprenticeship or going on to university.”