One of PPP’s Key Delivery Partners, Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM) has aided a Creating Careers in Construction employability programme focused on adults looking at a career change or entering the sector.
SRM collaborated with All Together Cumbria, to deliver a session for their Creating Careers in Construction cohort, helping adults currently out of work to gain extra skills.
They used their 13m cable stay bridge, which can be used to support the understanding of STEM and construction careers, in a session with 11 adults, held at Lakes College West Cumbria.
SRM representatives discussed career opportunities within civil engineering and construction and the cohort erected and dismantled the bridge.
Claire Louise Chapman, Social Impact Lead for SRM, said: “This is the first time we have used our STEM bridge resource with adults, and it was an opportunity to talk, in more detail, about routes into our sector, entry requirements and to meet enthusiastic and capable individuals who are looking to work in construction.
“The group was fantastic, very competent and focused and we’re glad they enjoyed the session.”
Andy Dodds, of All Together Cumbria, said: “The use of the STEM bridge for the Creating Careers in Construction cohort was very useful.
“The cohort have been using the Skills Builder framework to develop essential skills throughout the programme to support their journey to employment.
“The STEM bridge allowed the participants to develop these skills further, with the activity lending itself to all eight essential skills but particularly problem solving, teamwork, creativity and leadership.
“The group really enjoyed the activity and the practical nature of the session complemented the classroom study they were completing for their CSCS card.
“The session also provided the opportunity for the group to meet and interact with another employer, to whom they could display professional behaviours and gain an insight into the careers available.”