24/07/13
STOURBRIDGE COLLEGE STUDENTS GET A FOOT ON THE RESTORATION LADDER
Plastering student, Jamie Stokes, and Carpentry & Joinery student, Ashley Dunford, both based at Stourbridge College’s Centre of Excellence for Construction & Building Services in Brierley Hill, worked on a building project in Dudley Town Centre with the construction firm.
Part of a wider regeneration scheme in Dudley, the project involved the refurbishment of the old Co-op building in the High Street to provide shop premises for retailer, United Footwear. The students worked on a variety of tasks including external repair and reinstatement, render renewal, window replacement and overhauling the shop front.
Jamie, 18 from Cradley Heath, said: “It was a great opportunity to work on this building project. I’ve completed my Level 1 and 2 in Plastering at Stourbridge College and will be looking for employment soon. Any work experience is great to include on my CV.”
Ashley, 18 from Wollescote, agrees: “ Working on the restoration of this building, even just for a week, gave me a proper feel for what to expect when I start to work in the industry.”
Bill Cave, Small Works Director at Speller Metcalfe, said: “Speller Metcalfe is committed to the next generation of construction and we are always looking for opportunities to develop experience and key skills in all our sectors.
"On this particular site the students were able to observe and get involved in the restoration work – there is a shortage of workers for restoration projects it's important that we continue to work with local colleges to ensure that students are equipped with the relevant and employable skills."