Warwickshire County Council’s Highways Maintenance contract with Balfour Beatty Living Places is helping young people gain valuable industry experience through T Level placements. Balfo...
Warwickshire County Council’s Highways Maintenance contract with Balfour Beatty Living Places is helping young people gain valuable industry experience through T Level placements.
Balfour Beatty Living Places is supporting two students from Leamington Spa College, part of Warwickshire College Group, as they complete placements on the Warwickshire, Solihull and Coventry Highways Maintenance contract.
Jake Ingram and Joe Marlin are studying the Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T Level, a two-year qualification equivalent to three A Levels. As part of the course, students must complete at least 315 hours of industry placement alongside their studies.
Over the summer, Jake and Joe completed 90 placement hours, giving them a strong start before beginning their second year at college.
During their placements, they worked across project management, commercial and operational teams, gaining insight into a wide range of careers in the construction and highways sector. Activities included site visits, health and safety meetings, toolbox talks, project planning and commercial processes, helping them understand how infrastructure projects are planned, delivered and managed.
They have also developed key employability skills, including communication, time management, presentation skills, CV writing and job application techniques.
The students will continue their placements until November, with further opportunities to work alongside planning and business improvement teams.
The programme forms part of Balfour Beatty Living Places’ commitment to developing future industry professionals by providing young people with the skills, confidence and practical experience needed for successful careers.
Councillor Stephen Shaw, Warwickshire County Council Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning, said:
"When we drew up the Council Plan, the most common message from residents was that they wanted us to create opportunities for young people. That is why we encourage contractors to deliver social value alongside high-quality services.
“I’m delighted that this partnership is helping local young people gain valuable experience and prepare for the world of work."
Andy Whitmill, Contract Director, Balfour Beatty Living Places, said:
"A key measure of success for this contract is the positive impact it creates for local people and communities. By supporting young people into employment, training and career opportunities, we are delivering meaningful social value while helping to build the skilled workforce of the future. Everyone deserves a foot on the career ladder, and we are proud to help open those doors."
Jake Ingram said: “Being on site throughout our placement was an invaluable experience in which we learned so many skills and what a potential career in the construction industry could look like.”
Joe Marlin agreed, saying: “We’ve incredibly grateful for the hands-on training and experience we’ve received through being exposed to working with various team members on live operational tasks.
For information on transport in Warwickshire, go to https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/roadsandtransport