Beard is helping three students from Abingdon & Witney College explore careers in construction through a T-level placement programme, giving them experience on live projects in Oxfordshire.
The contractor sponsors the college’s T-level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, providing workplace opportunities that complement students’ theoretical learning. The partnership marks the first time Beard’s Oxford office has delivered a T-level programme on this scale, building on earlier success in Bristol.
Students gain practical experience in areas including sustainability, design principles and health and safety, while learning about the range of roles involved in delivering construction projects.
The programme is run by Beard’s Oxford social value coordinator, Rachel Bird, who works with the college, project teams and supply chain partners to create meaningful workplace experiences.
“At Beard, we are proud to continue supporting T-level students by giving them meaningful opportunities to develop their skills, confidence and understanding of the workplace,” said Bird.
“Investing our time and experience in young people is an investment in the future of our industry, and we remain committed to helping the next generation build strong foundations for successful careers.”
The three second-year students share what they have learnt during their placements and how the experience has shaped their career ambitions.
Charlie Waite: ‘A great way to explore the industry’
“My interest in construction started with a Level 1 carpentry course. I really enjoyed working with materials and creating something from scratch, so the T-level felt like a great way to explore the industry while combining college learning with experience on live projects.
“Before the placement, I thought construction was mainly about the practical work you see on site. I’ve now realised there’s so much more to it, including planning, surveying, project management and communication between different teams.
“Visiting projects, including St Catherine’s College, Pusey Lane, Hertford College and the Aspen Centre, has helped me understand construction drawings, surveying, health and safety, and how different teams work together.
“A highlight was spending a few weeks at the Aspen Centre as it neared completion. Seeing the building come together gave me a real appreciation of the teamwork involved in finishing a project.
“I originally wanted to become an architect, but I’m now interested in project management. I like the idea of bringing different teams together and managing a project from start to finish.
“For anyone considering a construction T-level, I’d say go for it. You learn at college while also gaining real experience on live projects, meeting people in the industry and building your confidence.”
Josh King: ‘It might surprise you’
“I’ve always been interested in how buildings are designed and constructed, from the very start of a project through to its completion. I chose a T-level because it offered the chance to explore potential careers and opportunities.
“My placement at Beard has opened my eyes to how many people contribute to a project, the preparation needed before work begins and the importance of health and safety. Visiting projects ranging from colleges to homes and commercial buildings has helped me develop my communication and teamwork skills.
“My favourite onsite experience so far was a day trip to Stonehenge. We learnt about the building techniques used thousands of years ago and how some of these principles are still used today.
“I’ve learnt about many construction roles and career paths I never knew existed. However, I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in design, and completing this course has made me even more certain that this is the path I want to follow.
“My advice to anyone considering a construction T-level is to do it – it might surprise you! My experience at Beard has given me a real insight into the industry and helped me put my college learning into practice.”
Ellie-May Dingle: ‘A place where I can belong’
“I’ve always enjoyed being creative and designing things, but I also wanted a career where I could work on real projects and see the results. This T-level allows me to learn the theory at college while gaining experience with a construction company like Beard.
“Before my placement, I imagined construction as being mostly men working on building sites and physically constructing buildings. My experience has shown me that there are many different roles and routes into construction, and much more diversity than I expected.
“The project at Hertford College has been a highlight. Visiting the site gave me the opportunity to see how a real construction project is managed and how different stages come together. I also learnt how trades work together, how health and safety is managed and how important communication and teamwork are.
“My advice is not to let the perception of construction as a male-dominated industry put you off. There are more and more opportunities for women, and you don’t have to know exactly what career you want before you start. A T-level is a good way to build confidence, gain real experience and discover which part of the industry you enjoy.
“My experience at Beard has given me the confidence to see construction as a career where I can belong, develop my skills and make my own place as a young person in the industry.”
