A Day of Inspiration

The day began with motivational talks from Jeff Murphy, Managing Director of SPL Change Academy, and Julie Baker, Social Value Manager at Keepmoat. They highlighted the importance of workplace experience and how gaining a deeper understanding can lead to long-term career success.

Following the talks, students and staff were given a guided tour of the academy’s state-of-the-art training facilities, offering a closer look at the resources used for hands-on training in the construction sector.

A Dab Hand at Plastering 

After a health and safety briefing, students had the chance to try plastering themselves. With guidance from apprentices and tutors at Hugh Baird College, students mixed and applied plaster to walls, gaining a practical feel for the trade. Even teachers joined in, proving that it’s never too late to learn new skills!

Supporting equalex: Inspiring Early Career Exploration

The event also supported the launch of equalex in our region, a new pilot reinventing the world of work experience.  The initiative from the Careers and Enterprise Company aims to introduce students to career opportunities from an earlier age, to inspire and allow young people to gain valuable insight with a guaranteed 10 days’ worth of modern work experience in a range of sectors, from advanced manufacturing, digital and creative industries, to health and life sciences and construction.

Real-World Exposure

The hands-on experience at SPL Change academy and interaction with apprentices and industry professionals provided students with valuable exposure to the construction sector. This allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of career pathways, progression, and the potential opportunities available to them in the future.

A huge thank you to SPL Change Academy, their apprentices, and Keepmoat for making this experience possible!  Thank you to the following schools who took part: Harmonize Academy, Meadowpark School, Waterside Academy, Everton Free School, Kings Phoenix Academy, Altbridge High School.

Julie Roberts, Enterprise Coordinator, Liverpool City Region Careers Hub