PUPILS from an East Staffordshire secondary school took time out of school to learn more about becoming a tradesman.
Youngsters from Abbot Beyne School descended on Wickes Builders Merchant, in Wellington Road, Burton, as part of a partnership which began when the school opened its new construction block in September last year.
Stuart Maxwell, subject leader for technology, supervised the 17-strong group, made up of 14 and 15-year-olds, who are currently taking part in a BTEC construction course during the day out of school.
Store manager Kully Gill said: “The visit to was aimed at providing the students with a link to understanding how tradesmen are treated by merchants
“It was also about learning about risk management and heath and safety principles in the workplace.
“There was also a session on learning how to work out measurements to tile a bathroom.
“The day also featured a session detailing the products they may need to complete the job.
“The event was set up for them to learn about the relationships between trade merchants and builders.”
Dean Willis from the store helped the students learn about a room project and how to select the best products.
Mr Gill presented a session on health and safety principles in the workplace and the link to the job of a tradesman.
Mark Middleton hosted a session on risk management in the workplace and on building sites
Luke Brittle, assistant branch manager from Travis Perkins, presented a session on how relationships were built with tradesman and merchants.
Teacher Stuart Maxwell said: “I am very pleased with how Wickes staff took time out of their busy trading day to help the students learn more about the link they will one day have with builders’ merchants.”
Mr Gill added: “The children found the whole day very useful to support there continued success in the BTEC Construction.
“I am extremely happy with the support my team hass provided to the school since their partnership in 2012, along with the interest the students have shown in learning from Wickes.”
