Budding entrepreneurs are being given a unique insight into the development business thanks to Barratt Homes’ partnership with Foundation of Light.
Pupils from Thornhill Academy School in Sunderland are taking part in a six-week project that will culminate in a Dragon’s Den-style presentation at the Beacon of Light.
Youngsters have been given the challenge to assess a development site and to consider and assess the feasibility of how it can be utilised, looking at construction, commercials and marketing.
With guidance from Barratt staff, pupils are being encouraged to be creative as they overcome obstacles and consider real-life factors when pulling together their presentations and then pitch their ideas to a judging panel.
Through the involvement of Barratt Homes, the youngsters will also gain an insight into the wide range of careers and opportunities within the construction industry available to them when they leave school.
Stephen Wooldridge, Barratt Homes Technical Director said: “The Foundation of Light is made up of great people doing great things and at Barratt Homes we see merit in getting involved and helping with their programmes.
“This challenge is a real-life scenario and allows young people to get involved in all areas of the construction field, demonstrating how diverse it is and looking at every role, including, quantity surveyor, engineer, planner, land buyer, marketing and site management'
“We did the challenge virtually last year and had some great things presented back to us, so we can’t wait to see what they come up with this time.”
Clare Wilson, Foundation of Light Head of Partnerships and Donor Care added: "We’re delighted that Barratt Homes have taken a very active approach to their partnership and their involvement in the project has made a big impact on the young people taking part.”
Foundation of Light’s partnership with Barratt Homes gives young people the opportunity to explore careers in construction, through various tasks.
As part of the partnership, there is Construction Academy in the Beacon of Light’s World of Work Zone to help deliver skills needed within the construction industry, with hundreds of youngsters visiting since it was opened two years ago.
