Pupils lay foundations for construction career
ALMOST 200 school pupils are benefitting from a scheme that allows them to attend college from the age of 14, with 25 schools in the region now sending students to Leeds College of Building to learn about construction.
The 14-16 Skills Academy allows construction programmes to be delivered in partnership with schools in Leeds and the surrounding areas.
Leeds College of Building’s faculty director Chris Ferguson said: “The traditional school environment doesn’t suit every student so our courses, which include practical skills in several trade areas, provide an ideal alternative.
“Students can spend up to two days a week in college following individual programmes and qualifications that suit their needs. Last year we had an 80% overall success rate for our year 11 students. 70% of those students also progressed onto a more advanced course at the college when they turned 16 years old, which is a very positive endorsement of their experience here at the college.”
Mr Ferguson said the aim is to engage students of all abilities whilst encouraging them to progress into apprenticeship programmes, full time study programmes or higher education options.
Joe Coluccio, assistant head teacher from Corpus Christi Catholic College, one of the schools that works with the college, said: “Our long-standing relationship with the college has been extremely fruitful, with our students gaining invaluable knowledge whilst developing excellent practical skills in well-equipped and safe workshops.”
