Cumbrian teenagers are gaining invaluable insights into the real world of work.
Story Homes has been welcoming school students to work at one if its Carlisle developments.
Two local students have spent a week working under the guidance and tutelage of Site Manager, James Arnison at The Ridings development near Carlisle Racecourse. James participates in the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Ambassador scheme, which means he works with schools to promote career opportunities within the construction industry to young people.
Tyler Hesser, 15, attends Ullswater Community College in Penrith and would like to become a bricklayer, following in his father’s footsteps. Tyler has been working alongside professional contractors employed by Story Homes and has been given real life tasks to undertake.
Left: Tyler Hesser and right: Daniel Murray enjoying their time at The Ridings, Carlisle
Tyler said of his week with Story Homes: “I have really enjoyed my week on site, and I want to be a bricklayer with my dad when I leave school. I have been really impressed with how smart the plots are when they are complete.”
Carlisle student, Daniel Murray, 14, from Richard Rose Central Academy, also spent a week working at The Ridings. He worked alongside joiners and spent his time picking up handy hints and tips to help secure his future ambition. Daniel enjoyed his time on site and said: “I think Story homes build and design houses that are great for people to live in, they have a reputation for building luxury homes. I think it would be an exciting opportunity to work for a successful company.”
Site Manager James said: “We have certainly been keeping both students busy this week and they have been working closely with our contractors to really get a taste of the construction industry. I’m sure they will both go on to become successful in their chosen careers as they have proved to be willing, interested and punctual!
“They have been pretty quiet, but as the week has gone on, you can see that they are gaining confidence and this will stand them in good stead for the future. They have been coming together throughout this week, to bounce ideas and discuss their thoughts – having both the students here has worked really well.”
With a white paper by consultants EC Harris revealing that construction companies will need one million new recruits by 2020 if the industry is to build the homes the country needs, encouraging young people into work is key.
Shelley Hayward, Talent and Development Manager at Story Homes, is responsible for arranging the work experience for students and said: “Encouraging young talent into the business is important to Story Homes. We are growing and expanding and therefore our present and future recruitment needs have to be met. Helping young people into work and promoting the different career paths available to students, will give them something to aim for and aspirations to join high quality businesses such as Story Homes.”