School’s out for summer! 58 students complete EKFB’s hybrid work experience programme
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
In July, 58 students from across 37 schools took part in a first-of-its-kind ‘pilot’ work experience programme with EKFB across a two-week period. Supported by Futures for All, a social mobility charity ensuring fair access to meaningful opportunities and routes into work for all young people in state education, the programme has been a big hit with the students
and a valuable introduction to careers in construction.
Developed as a hybrid programme, consisting of two on-site days, and the rest delivered remotely via online seminars, the year 11 to 13 students, from across Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire and Warwickshire, attended in person days at the A422, A41 and Chipping Warden, where they enjoyed site visits to see the green tunnel, mega earthworks, Thame Valley Viaduct and other construction works happening in and around those areas.
A combination of sessions delivered by a group of EKFB experts covered a wide range of topics including engineering, utilities, public response, employability skills such as skills mapping and CV writing and independent work.
Wesley Crompton, who supported one of the groups, and listened to group presentations, said:
“The EKFB SEE team and the participating students should be incredibly proud of what they achieved. Working virtually in teams with young people they had never met before, they were challenged to develop a delivery plan for a major infrastructure project – the construction of a green tunnel on the EKFB section of HS2 using a cut-and-cover method.
“Despite the complexity of the challenge and the limited time available, the students quickly built strong working relationships, collaborated effectively online, and produced thoughtful, well-structured plans. They then came together in person to confidently present their ideas to EKFB and HS2 staff, demonstrating impressive communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
“The speed at which the students adapted, learned new concepts and delivered their solutions was remarkable. It was a demanding task, but they approached it with enthusiasm, professionalism and creativity, showcasing the talent and potential of the next generation. Their achievements are a fantastic example of what can be accomplished when young people are given the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges.”
The SEE team has received some brilliant student feedback since the programme ended, and here’s a few things the students had to say:
What was the best thing about the placement?
“The variation in activities and information given”
“Learning about all the intricacies and details required to work on such a large project”
What aspects of the placement helped you develop your skills?
“The group project especially helped me develop my communication and teamwork skills because I was basically working with strangers to construct and build part of the HS2 railway”
“Presenting a presentation about a mini version of HS2, and the various speaker insight sessions”
Becky Rowley, SEE Advisor, is thrilled with the programme: “Thank you to our site and office teams for supporting this programme and making it a brilliant success for this inaugural launch. It was a huge endeavour to support 58 students and I’m proud of what we’ve managed to do to support their learning. I’m sure we’ve inspired the next generation by giving the students the opportunity to learn more about what, and who it takes, to build the UK’s infrastructure.”
“This programme has also given EKFB the opportunity to nurture a new partnership with Futures for All and we look forward to working with them in the future.”
Karen Hillis, Head of Work Experience (Futures for All): “Futures for All is delighted to partner with EKFB to give students valuable real-world work experience and inspire them by showcasing the diverse career opportunities available in the construction industry. A huge thank you to everyone involved for making the experience so engaging and impactful.”
