ABOUT THE CASE STUDY
Introduction
This case study highlights a collaborative initiative designed to engage and inspire students from Brookfield SEN School, introducing them to careers in construction and building services. Delivered through the Speakers for Schools ‘Work Taster’ programme and supported by MCS and Willmott Dixon Interiors, the initiative comprised a series of interactive sessions aimed at sparking creativity, building practical skills, and showcasing real world construction environments.
Programme Overview
The programme unfolded in three engaging sessions:
Session 1: Creative Construction
The first session introduced 15 enthusiastic Year 10, 11, and 12 students to the world of construction and building services. Working with materials such as straws and connectors, the students demonstrated creativity and teamwork to design and build structures. This session laid the foundation for understanding construction concepts in a hands-on and inclusive environment.
Session 2: A Site Tour of Atlantic House
In the second session, 20 students and staff from the school visited Atlantic House, an active construction site managed by Willmott Dixon Interiors. The tour, led by the project team, allowed students to witness construction in action and better understand the practicalities of the industry. Students asked insightful questions throughout, showcasing their growing interest. The visit also sparked the possibility of work experience placements for two students.
Session 3: Lighting, Circuits, and Plumbing Fun
The final session brought together everything the students had learned. After a recap of the site tour and a fun quiz to test their knowledge, students revisited their creative projects. This time, they incorporated lighting circuits to illuminate their structures and added toilet roll tubes to simulate plumbing. Each student’s participation was celebrated with a certificate of achievement, marking their efforts and learning over the course of the programme.
Key acheievements
- Active Participation: The students engaged enthusiastically in all activities, demonstrating creativity, curiosity, and teamwork.
- Real-World Exposure: The site tour gave students a tangible understanding of construction processes and roles within the industry.
- Potential Opportunities: Two students showed strong potential to progress into work experience placements with Willmott Dixon Interiors.
- Recognition: Each participant received a certificate to celebrate their achievements, reinforcing their sense of accomplishment.
Impact
The collaboration between Brookfield SEN School, MCS, Willmott Dixon Interiors, and Speakers for Schools provided a unique opportunity for students with special educational needs to explore career pathways in construction. The programme bridged the gap between classroom learning and industry experience, empowering young people to envision their future within the sector.
Conclusion
This initiative demonstrates the power of inclusive, hands-on learning in inspiring young people from diverse backgrounds to consider careers in construction. By combining creative activities, real-world exposure, and personal engagement, the programme not only enriched the students’ understanding but also highlighted the potential for meaningful contributions from SEN students to the industry.
