Work Taster Sessions

Providing an interactive learning experience
at The Engine Shed (pictured)

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Our Digital Den

Our Digital Den allowed students to delve into the world of digital construction.

Led by Morgan Sindall Construction, who worked closely with HES to design content for the Engine Shed's 270 degree immersive space, this taster session allowed students to discover more about digital construction. They were also able to view BIM models using Virtual Reality (VR) technology, which is increasingly being used throughout the industry.

There really is something for everybody in construction, there's not just one thing and you have to do that."

A Greener Future

Led by Sweco, this work taster was designed to educate young people on the environmental aspects of construction and how, through the sustainable delivery of projects, our efforts can help reduce carbon emissions for the benefit of both our planet but also our local communities.

As part of this, students got their hands dirty making Bee Bombs, while learning about the importance of biodiversity on site.

I really enjoyed and learned a lot today, so thank you."

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COUNT On Us

The purpose of the COUNT On Us session was to help young people understand the cost of construction.

Led by Morgan Sindall Construction, this work taster took students into the world of Quantity Surveying; looking at cost and contracts in construction. Working in teams, students were required to cost and build a structure as per the design and materials provided to them. They were also made to monitor the time and budget, making sure to avoid defects during the build.

Learning about all the things that go on before you actually start building has been fun."

Let's Go Retro!

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) talked about the importance of retrofit, local materials and the skills needed to maintain Scotland’s traditional buildings.

The Engine Shed lent itself to the talk having been repurposed by HES. From the original stone and brick masonry walls, to the reclaimed sports flooring cladding the walls, the venue provided the perfect learning environment for those wandering round the exhibitions.

It was a great experience which helped highlight the different jobs construction is able to offer."

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One Build at a Time

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) also led a stonemasonry session to provide young people with experience of working with stone. This was supported by Tigers Construction Academy who allowed students to try their hand at bricklaying.

Ttag and Dalcon donated the materials for the students to work on while Kenoteq’s showcased a brick made from 90% recycled construction waste to highlight the direction the industry is taking to lower carbon.

It’s been good to get the opportunity to actually go out and do a couple of things like bricklaying."

Site Life

This taster session provided a “day in the life” of site operatives and the machines they use.

Led by Balfour Beatty and McLaughlin & Harvey, the session gave young people an insight into the tools and equipment needed to work on a site. These included surveying equipment, cat and genny equipment, and some larger equipment including an electric excavator and electric telehandler that further promote sustainability in construction.

It was really fun and interesting and the people at the event were amazing."

The feedback from the work tasters was phenomenal. Collaboration with the SCAPE partners, HES and supporters enabled us to create something special for young people from across Scotland.

Highlights included attendance from hard-to-reach young people and underrepresented groups. The young people, teachers, college staff, support staff and even HES volunteers were all blown away with the opportunities available within construction.