Middlesbrough College launch innovative construction project

Middlesbrough College are launching an innovative construction project that will see students building then demolishing a bungalow to gain key skills.

The college have teamed up with Esh Group to clear a site to make way for the new project, aimed at giving students skills to compete in the jobs market.

The site, on Dock Street, was acquired by the college at the end of last year.

Esh Group will demolish a derelict property on the site before laying the infrastructure for the Middlesbrough College Construction site.

The site will then be used by hundreds of students to gain the key skills they need to compete in the jobs market.

Students will train in ground works, landscaping, brickwork, plastering, rendering, plumbing, joinery and electrical skills.

The construction students will also be trained in renewable energies such as solar panels and high grade low carbon insulation materials.

During an academic year the students will construct a detached bungalow and at the end of each year the completed building will be demolished.

The materials used will be recycled and the whole process repeated for the next intake of students.

Steven Conn, Construction Director with Esh Construction said: “This project will be a really practical opportunity for students to learn about the construction industry and the tools and techniques we use because each new intake of students will build – from scratch – a whole bungalow as they progress through their course.

“At Esh Construction we know how useful it is for young people to have practical experience as well as good qualifications and this is a great solution, we’re really delighted to be part of this project.”

The new project is thought to be a first in the North East and has already caught the attention of national assessors.

Marty Humphries, Head of Construction Projects at Middlesbrough College, said: “This planned facility will replicate a working construction site and will offer students the opportunity to gain valuable site experience in their trade area.

“It’s all part of the ongoing efforts to ensure Middlesbrough College students are work ready.

“Construction students will not only gain the skills they need but will gain experience of working on a fully functional site, something employers tell us they need.”

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