A construction project in Weyhill has helped create hands-on training opportunities for Andover students and apprentices.
Over the past year, Feltham Construction has been building two new warehouses in Weyhill for J Chandler and Co (Buckfast) Ltd.
As part of the development, the company delivered an Employment and Skills Plan agreed with Test Valley Borough Council.
The plan led Feltham Construction to work with Andover College, giving students the chance to engage with the project and see how a large-scale build is delivered.
Students visited the site several times, including to watch concrete floors being poured in the new warehouses.
Two college students also completed a week of work experience on the project, taking part in practical tasks such as calculating the length of skirting board required for the build.
Feltham Construction also visited Andover College to speak with construction students and support the college’s careers fair.
The build provided opportunities for three groundworks apprentices, one roofing apprentice, two scaffolding apprentices and two plumbing apprentices to gain valuable on-site experience.
Employment and Skills Plans now require companies to include sustainability or green skills training. During the Weyhill build, a number of Feltham employees attended sustainability training to support more sustainable construction practices.
Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said:
“Although this was a relatively quick and small-scale build, it has made a meaningful difference for Andover students and local apprentices.
“It is more important than ever that young people have the opportunity to experience real working environments as they develop skills for their future careers.”
Charlton and Pentons ward councillor Linda Lashbrook said:
“It is encouraging to see local development projects creating opportunities for young people and apprentices to gain valuable hands-on experience.
“Developments like this can bring wider benefits to our communities, and it is positive to see local businesses, education providers and construction companies working together to support the next generation of skilled workers.”
Vernon Robinson from Feltham Construction said:
“Meeting the requirements of the Employment and Skills Plan involved a learning curve and a considerable amount of work.
“With support from the economic development team at Test Valley Borough Council, it has been a positive experience, and one that has given us a strong foundation for future projects.”
Test Valley Borough Council uses a framework developed by the Construction Industry Training Board to agree Employment and Skills Plans when building developments in the borough receive planning permission.
The plans are designed to support employment opportunities and skills development in construction.
