Pupils get the chance to build construction career and help the community

Salford students have been learning the tools of the trade with Salix Homes – revamping an area that will benefit the local community and helping their career ambitions.

Six Year Nine pupils from Buile Hill Visual Arts College in Salford have spoken of their delight at getting the chance to try out different jobs over a six-week course at nearby Oakhill Court.

The tower block, which houses 97 apartments and owned by Salix Homes, can now benefit from a newly-refurbished community room and new kitchen, thanks to the youngsters, under the expert guidance of the Salford housing provider and contractor A Connolly.

The Pendleton-based college was looking for a local organisation to help support their workplace learning project giving students the opportunity to gain qualifications and experience which would support their prospects in gaining apprenticeships when leaving school.

Salix Homes was more than happy to assist, along with Travis Perkins who generously supplied free tools.

The pupils – Aiden Burgess, Max Healey, Harry Lee, William Barnes, Jake Derbyshire and Luke Lowthian – swapped the books of the classroom and got hands on with various jobs in a busy working environment. Now they are celebrating the project’s completion with representatives from the college and Salix Homes.

Max, aged 14 said: “I learnt a lot from working in a real working environment, taking down and building things, as well as using the tools. However, I didn’t like cleaning up at the end of each day.”

Aiden, aged 14 added: “We spent a lot of time learning from the Salix Homes team who helped us with skills that we can use for the rest of our lives.”

Sue Sutton, executive director of operations at Salix Homes said: “The work that has taken place has been carried out to an excellent standard and will make a huge difference to one of our tower blocks.

“Throughout this whole process, the young lads have been fantastic and really got stuck in to help get the job complete.

“We work hard to build links with schools, colleges, tenants, community and voluntary groups because we believe that by working together we can make Salford a better place. I really hope this project has helped give these lads a taste of the working life, teamwork and a positive and enjoyable experience.”

James Inman, headteacher at Buile Hill Visual Arts College, added: “This has been an incredible partnership with Salix Homes. It has allowed our students to gain experiences which are invaluable and chances which will enable them to develop not only their skills in construction and maintenance but also communication and the world of work.

“We are thrilled to be working with Salix Homes and are looking forward to a long successful venture of continuing to provide outstanding opportunities to support our students.”