College learners complete 435 hours of work experience

Wynne Construction has partnered with Coleg y Cymoedd to offer its students practical, hands-on work experience at the £12.2m Pontllanfraith Centre for Vulnerable Learners scheme.

Appointed by Caerphilly County Borough Council to build the new facility as part of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, the Denbighshire-based firm welcomed 15 learners on site to undertake a range of trades.

From joinery, plastering, and bricklaying, to roofing, electrical works, and paving, the placements provided the aspiring construction workers with a glimpse into the industry.

Their efforts were focused on refurbishing and extending the former grammar school block into a suitable learning environment which, once completed, will provide ten teaching spaces, a main hall, meeting room, staff room, café, and teaching kitchen for up to 120 pupils.

The youngsters each completed a minimum of 25 hours of work experience, with the college organising a minibus to allow for as many students as possible to take part over the five weeks.

One learner on the entry level three construction course who exceeded the minimum experience hours requirement was Lacey Fabian.

Speaking about her experience, the 17-year-old said: “I’m passionate about carpentry, so I’ve really enjoyed working alongside the carpenter to enhance my skills and knowledge.

“Being on a live site was also very different to learning in a classroom, but I found I preferred it, as it’s given me a real idea of what the role is actually like.”

Course mate Kai Fernom, who hails from Pontypridd, also praised the opportunity, citing the development of his teamwork as a key takeaway

The 16-year-old, who undertook 50 hours, which is double the required amount, said: “I was helping build the walls with the stonemasons, which was great, and I felt supported throughout the experience by all the staff.

“I know I want to go into bricklaying after college, and Wynne Construction has given me the chance to complete a full week of work, so I’m very thankful.”

Fellow learner Gavin Mason, 17, who also completed 50 hours on the scheme scheme as a general labourer, shared a similar sentiment.

He said: “Being part of a team with lots of different people and trying out lots of new things was great.

“Although I’m not entirely certain what trade I want to do in the future, I’m glad I got to see and experience what jobs are available in the industry.”

Wynne Construction social value manager Craig Sweet said: “We are always looking to help youngsters gain real-life, relevant experience in construction, so hearing the positive feedback from the students has been brilliant.

“Our relationship with Coleg y Cymoedd has also gone from strength to strength and it’s evident that the college goes above and beyond to provide enriching activities for its learners, helping them put into practice what’s been taught in the classroom.”

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