St. Modwen Homes delivers first virtual work experience course

In a bid to address the shortage of quality work experience opportunities on offer during the Covid-19 pandemic, St. Modwen Homes has partnered with Women in Construction to deliver their very first virtual programme.

The course was a comprehensive introduction to house building with a particular focus on Health and Safety, a hot topic in the industry right now. 12 women, aged 15 to 64 and based in different parts of England and Wales, signed up to take part in the week-long ‘Pilot’ programme.  

Hosting the programme via Google classrooms, attendees were given a welcome pack full of activities. The timetable was packed with group sessions and guest speakers from the Health & Safety, Technical, Commercial, Construction, HR, Planning and Design & Innovation teams. 

When asked what she enjoyed most about the virtual work experience programme, Ferzana said:

“At first, I was dubious about completing work experience, as I felt that some employers may not take it that seriously. However, we learned so much and had access to lots of different resources, so I really feel that I’ve been given invaluable insight into what a role in construction could offer. 

“The team from St. Modwen Homes treated us like potential employees with huge aspirations for the future, which just made the whole experience really satisfying.” 

Supritha, another participant of the course, said:

“This training has been a real eye opener for me. I definitely learned a lot about new technology in the industry, which has helped increase my confidence.”

7 of the attendees who took part are students of the Thomas Telford UTC in Wolverhampton. Simon Maxfield, Deputy Vice Principal at Thomas Telford UTC, said:

“This has been such a valuable experience for our students – they were all so engaged and really enjoyed their week.  

“The timing for a programme like this is perfect as the students were able to engage without the need for teacher supervision. The students are understandably concerned about their future prospects right now but this programme has reassured them that there are still many viable opportunities to pursue.  We’re so grateful to have been involved.” 

Commenting on the delivery of their first remote learning programme, Alison Tucker, Early Careers and Training Coordinator for St. Modwen Homes said:

“With remote working quickly becoming the norm for millions, our ability to provide work experience placements has been hugely impacted. In line with our Responsible Business Ambitions, we want to provide these crucial opportunities for those seeking a career in the construction industry. 

“The feedback we have received from attendees is fantastic and we hope to continue with these virtual programmes in the future, expanding into other areas of the work we do.”

The programme was delivered in partnership with Women in Construction, an independent not-for-profit organisation that promotes gender equality in construction. They provide bespoke support to women wishing to work in the construction industry, through advice, training, work-placements and brokerage into job opportunities, leading to sustained employment in construction.