Housing ‘kids’ in building taster!
Eleven youngsters got creative in a fun family challenge organised by construction training staff from Incommunities.
The school holiday activity aimed to give the young relatives of the housing group’s staff a flavour of some of the building skills needed to make it in the world of work.
The ‘budding builders’ who were accompanied by their ‘grown ups’, had a great time trying their hand at making wooden bird boxes and large picnic benches.
Following the day, three picnic benches will be donated to local community causes, whilst the bird boxes will be auctioned off in an online sale amongst Incommunities staff. The money raised will go to the domestic abuse charity, Women’s Aid.
Lucious (12) and Willow (8) from Denholme came along with their mum, Karline, who is a qualified joiner after completing an apprenticeship with Incommunities in 2017.
Lucious said: "It’s been good fun making a picnic bench and learning new skills. My favourite subject at school is Design and Technology and it’s great to have a go at building something big!"
Amelia (16) joined her uncle Dale, who is an electrician with the housing group and said: "I’ve been to these construction days before and it gives me valuable work experience. I hope to start an art and design course in September and really enjoy creating things. It’s been a great day."
Construction Training Centre staff regularly work with primary and upper schools to run fun taster days to encourage youngsters to explore different construction skills.
Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group Chief Executive said: "Occupying kids over the summer holidays can be a bit of a struggle. This family challenge has given these youngsters the chance to show their creative side and make items that, at the end of the day, will benefit some of our customers and a leading charity too.
“The day’s also been great fun for the grown-ups and our tradespeople who have supervised the exercise.
"As an inclusive employer we are always keen to encourage boys and girls to realise their ambitions and events like this can prove really inspiring for everyone involved."