<p>We spoke with Will Payne, Social Value Manager at <a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a>, about <a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon's</a> partnership with Weston College as a CEH Partner, how they support students through industry placements, and their commitment to inspiring the next generation by showcasing the many pathways into the construction industry.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Can you introduce </strong><a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/"><strong>Willmott Dixon</strong></a><strong> and tell us a bit about what you do?</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a> is a UK-based, privately owned construction, development, and interior fit-out company founded in 1852. It delivers a wide range of projects across sectors such as education, healthcare, housing, justice, defence, and commercial property.</p><p>The company describes its purpose as delivering brilliant buildings, transforming lives, strengthening communities, and enhancing the environment for future generations. It is led by Rick Willmott, the fifth generation of the founding family, and is known for its strong focus on sustainability, social value, and community impact.</p><p>As a Social Value Manager, I help ensure that every <a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a> project in the Wales and South West Region leaves a positive legacy by creating opportunities for local people, strengthening communities, and delivering measurable social, economic, and environmental benefits alongside the construction work.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>How have Weston College students been involved in the Airfield Primary School project?</strong></p><p>As Social Value Manager, I, Will Payne, have worked closely with Weston College to support students' development and prepare them for careers within construction and the wider world of work. This has included delivering careers talks that provided insight into the construction industry, different career pathways, employability skills and the opportunities available to young people entering the sector.</p><p><a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a> has also attended employer breakfast meetings with college lecturers and senior strategic representatives from Weston College. These discussions have helped influence the development of the College's T Level curriculum, ensuring it reflects current industry needs and equips students with the skills and knowledge required by employers. We have also provided guidance on how industry placements can be structured to deliver the best possible experience and outcomes for students.</p><p>To further support employability, we have delivered work experience placements, mock interview sessions, giving students valuable experience of recruitment processes while helping them build confidence, communication skills and interview techniques. Students have also benefited from guest speaker sessions delivered by members of the <a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a> team, sharing real-life experiences and career journeys from across the construction industry.</p><p>In addition, students have been invited to visit the Airfield Primary School project through organised site tours. These visits have provided first-hand exposure to a live construction environment, allowing students to see construction processes in action, meet project professionals and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse roles involved in delivering a major education project.</p><p>Through these activities, Weston College students have gained practical industry insight, enhanced employability skills, and developed a stronger understanding of the opportunities available within the construction sector, helping to support their transition from education into employment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What has your experience of offering industry placements been like?</strong></p><p>Our experience of offering industry placements has been extremely positive. They provide young people with valuable exposure to the construction industry, helping them develop practical skills, workplace confidence and a better understanding of potential career pathways.</p><p>The students we have hosted from Weston College have been a real credit to themselves and the College. They have arrived on time, shown a strong willingness to learn and fully engaged with the opportunities available to them.</p><p>During their placements, students have participated in project meetings, supported the wider project team and gained first-hand experience of working on a live construction project. This has helped them understand how different roles work together to successfully deliver new build developments.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What are the biggest benefits of hosting an industry placement student?</strong></p><p>One of the biggest benefits is developing future talent. We've supported several students from industry placements into permanent roles with Willmott Dixon, including through our Management Trainee Scheme.</p><p>Placements also benefit our project teams by giving employees, particularly junior team members, the opportunity to mentor and support a student, helping develop their own leadership and communication skills.</p><p>Finally, working with placement students strengthens our relationship with colleges and provides valuable insight into what is being taught, helping to ensure education and industry remain aligned and relevant to the skills needed in construction today.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What kinds of projects and day-to-day tasks do industry placement students get involved in?</strong></p><p>Our industry placement students have gained experience across a wide range of projects, including education, healthcare and defence schemes. We aim to provide opportunities wherever possible, regardless of the type of project, ensuring students gain exposure to different areas of the construction industry.</p><p>Students are involved in a variety of day-to-day activities to give them a well-rounded experience. They work alongside different teams and disciplines, including site management, quantity surveying, health and safety, design, environmental and digital construction.</p><p>While some students arrive with a clear career path in mind, exposure to different roles often helps them discover opportunities they may not have previously considered. Even if they remain focused on their chosen career, they leave with a much better understanding of how the various departments work together to successfully deliver a construction project.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What do you look for when selecting students for an industry placement?</strong></p><p>When selecting students for an industry placement, attitude is the most important factor. We're looking for students who are reliable, enthusiastic and genuinely interested in developing a career within the industry.</p><p>Just like any recruitment process, we want to see someone who is committed, willing to learn and prepared to give their best. Technical knowledge can be developed over time, but a positive attitude, strong work ethic and a willingness to get involved are what really help students succeed.</p><p>Students who show they are keen to learn, take initiative and go beyond the minimum expectations are often the ones who make the biggest impact and get the most from the opportunity. These are the qualities we look for when identifying and selecting students for industry placements.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>In what other ways has </strong><a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/"><strong>Willmott Dixon</strong></a><strong> worked with Weston College?</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a> has built a strong and long-standing relationship with Weston College and continues to support the College wherever possible.</p><p>Alongside supporting T Level and construction students, we have also worked closely with Weston College's employment programme, which helps unemployed people develop the skills, confidence and qualifications needed to return to work.</p><p>As part of the programme, I have delivered sessions explaining what it is like to work for a Tier 1 construction company, providing learners with an insight into the opportunities available within the industry and the pathways into employment. These sessions are particularly valuable for individuals looking to enter construction for the first time, as well as those returning to the sector after a period away.</p><p>I often deliver these sessions alongside one of our recruitment partners, giving learners direct access to organisations that can support them into genuine employment opportunities. Through this collaboration, a number of participants have gone on to secure roles on our projects, helping to create local employment opportunities and supporting people back into work.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to employers thinking about offering industry placements?</strong></p><p>My advice would be simple: <strong>go for it.</strong> While it can feel a little daunting at first, the benefits far outweigh any concerns.</p><p>Industry placements provide a fantastic opportunity to support young people as they take their first steps into a career. As employers, particularly larger organisations, we have an important role to play in helping develop the next generation of talent and giving students meaningful experiences that prepare them for the world of work.</p><p>The students we've worked with have brought enthusiasm, fresh perspectives and a real willingness to learn. In return, they gain valuable industry experience, develop their confidence and build the skills needed for future employment.</p><p>Whether directly or through your supply chain, everyone has a part to play in creating opportunities for young people. By opening your doors to industry placements, you're not only investing in the future workforce but also helping enthusiastic students realise their potential and build successful careers in construction.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Is there anything you would like to add?</strong></p><p>As I mentioned, we have a long-standing and valued relationship with Weston College, and it's important that we continue to build on this partnership for the benefit of the College, its students and <a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a>.</p><p>Weston College makes it incredibly easy for employers to get involved and support its programmes. The team is proactive in engaging with industry, hosting regular meetings, networking events and employer forums to ensure course content remains relevant and aligned with current industry needs. We are always kept informed about opportunities to contribute and are invited to participate in a wide range of activities that support students' learning and development.</p><p>Most importantly, Weston College consistently delivers positive outcomes for its learners, helping to prepare them for successful careers and further opportunities.</p><p>We're grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Weston College and look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting the great work they do for many years to come.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve…, Surveying and Planning for Construction</a> T Level students recently enjoyed an exciting site visit to the <strong>Albert Road student accommodation development in Bristol</strong>, delivered by construction company <a href="https://www.bandk.co.uk/&quot; target="_blank"><strong>B+K</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><p>The visit began at Bristol Temple Meads, where students met before walking to the Albert Road site, which forms part of the wider Temple Quarter regeneration project. Once complete, the development will provide 454 student accommodation units alongside commercial space at ground-floor level, contributing to the ongoing transformation of the area.</p><p>Students were warmly welcomed by the B+K team and provided with branded personal protective equipment (PPE) before being taken on a comprehensive tour of the site. The visit was led by Russ from B+K, whose enthusiasm, knowledge and engaging delivery helped bring the project to life for the learners.</p><p>The group had the opportunity to explore the development from ground level right through to the upper floors of the building. For a short period during construction, the building will become the tallest structure in Bristol, offering spectacular views across the city. Despite the extremely windy conditions at the top of the building, students were fascinated to see specialist operatives working safely at height using harnesses, tethers and other fall-protection systems.</p><p>Throughout the visit, learners gained first-hand insight into the construction process, including the use of precast concrete construction methods and the central tower crane that supports the build programme. Seeing these elements in a live construction environment helped students connect classroom learning with real-world industry practice.</p><p>The visit also highlighted the strong partnership between Weston College and B+K. The company has been a valued supporter of the T Level programme and last year provided industry placements for two T Level students, helping them gain valuable workplace experience and develop skills for their future careers.</p><p>Charlotte Alsop, Lecturer in T-Level Design, Planning and Surveying for Construction said: <em>"The visit gave our students a fantastic insight into a major Bristol construction project. Russ was exceptional throughout, seeing everything from the flood defence measures and construction methods being used, bought the classroom learning to life. It was also the tidiest construction site I have ever visited, which says a great deal about the professionalism in the B + K team."</em></p><p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This trip forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const… Professions</a> Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weston College students studying the T Level in <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve…, Surveying and Planning for Construction</a> recently went behind the scenes at <a href="https://n-somerset.gov.uk/">North Somerset Council’s</a> Birnbeck Pier restoration project, gaining a unique insight into one of the country’s most significant heritage regeneration schemes.</p><p>The visit, as part of our partnership with North Somerset Council on the project, provided learners with the opportunity to explore the live construction site. They also heard directly from the industry professionals leading the restoration works, contractors <a href="https://mackley.co.uk/">Mackley</a&gt; and <a href="https://www.smithandbrenson.co.uk/">Smith and Brenson</a>. Two of the students, Finton and Ashton, are currently completing their industry placements on the project as part of their T Level qualification.</p><p>During the visit, students were guided around the site by the contractors, who delivered detailed tours showcasing both the marine engineering and landside elements of the restoration programme. Learners were able to see first-hand the scale and complexity of the works taking place to preserve the historic pier for future generations.</p><p>A particular highlight of the day was witnessing a <strong>400-tonne jack-up barge</strong> being manoeuvred into position next to the pier bridge, following its transportation from Newport Docks. The operation gave students a rare opportunity to observe specialist marine construction activity up close.</p><p><strong>BBC Points West</strong> were also in attendance on site to film the project and interview students Finton and Ashton, alongside Construction Professions lecturer Daniel, about the value of industry placements and the importance of hands-on learning within construction education.</p><p>The site visit formed as part of Weston College’s continued commitment to providing students with meaningful employer engagement opportunities that complement their classroom studies and prepare them for careers within the construction industry.</p><p>Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for the Birnbeck Pier project, said: <em>“We’re keen to get as many people involved with the project as possible through our comprehensive community engagement plan, made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to Weston College for their willingness to work with us to create opportunities like these which help local young people to access rewarding careers in construction.”</em></p><p>Councillor Catherine Gibbons, Deputy Leader of North Somerset Council and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Families, Skills and Lifelong Learning, added: <em>“Industry placements are a key feature of T-Levels, offering students invaluable experience in their chosen fields and equipping them with the skills they need for future careers. What a great opportunity for these local young people to learn on site at such an interesting heritage project of national importance. I’m pleased to see the council continuing to partner with Weston College as part of our wider strategy to ensure that our children and young people are given opportunity to thrive.”</em></p><p>Weston College would like to thank <strong>North Somerset Council</strong> for arranging the visit, as well as <strong>Mackley</strong> and <strong>Smith and Brenson</strong> for hosting the tours and sharing their expertise with students.</p><p data-pm-slice="0 0 []"><strong>This project forms part of the </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const… Professions</strong></a><strong> Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</strong></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>