Sandwell students gain insight into regeneration careers through live project
“Helping students develop the skills, confidence and aspirations needed for their future careers”
More than 30 students from The Sandwell Colleges have gained first-hand experience of regeneration work after taking part in a week-long programme linked to a live redevelopment project.
The students worked alongside professionals from urban design practice Allies and Morrison, design consultants PJA, Sandwell Council’s Regeneration and Growth Team and housing developer Keepmoat as part of the Friar Park redevelopment programme.
During the work experience week, learners explored how places are planned, designed and improved to meet the needs of local communities.
Activities included a visit to the Friar Park site, collecting and analysing data, meeting industry specialists and developing their own proposals to address social, environmental and economic challenges in the area.
The programme was designed to give students an understanding of career opportunities across regeneration, planning, architecture, urban design, landscape design and development, while helping them build skills including teamwork, communication, problem-solving and presenting ideas.
Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and Principal of The Sandwell Colleges, said the initiative helped connect classroom learning with real-world projects.
She said: “This unique initiative demonstrates our commitment to providing our young people with meaningful employer-led experiences that connect learning to real-world projects, helping students develop the skills, confidence and aspirations needed for their future careers.”
The week ended with a presentation event where student teams shared their ideas with a panel of industry professionals and college leaders. Participants received feedback, certificates of achievement and recognition for some of the strongest proposals.
Councillor Ray Nock, Leader of Sandwell Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said the programme would help young people develop valuable skills and understand potential career paths.
He said: “These valuable experiences help give people a first step on the ladder to a future career, developing their practical and design skills, industry networks and CVs.”
Jane Manning, Director of Allies and Morrison, said the students had shown enthusiasm and creativity throughout the week.
She said: “Working as an urban designer in the world of regeneration is a fantastic career and it's been brilliant to give so many students a glimpse into that world.”
The programme was delivered as part of a partnership aimed at supporting young people and developing the future workforce in the construction and regeneration sectors.