HOUSEBUILDER Barratt Homes has welcomed construction students from Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) to visit its Chapel Gate development in Kingsclere Road.

Taking place last month, students were given an insight into the workings of a construction site.

The students, currently studying either carpentry or fitted interiors at BCoT, and their tutors were able to put some of their learning to the test.

Each session was organised to maximise the learning experience for each and every student.

Following an induction to welcome the students and explain a little more about what they could expect when building a new homes site of this size, the site team then provided a hard hat tour of the development.

The day concluded with a talk where students were offered details about Chapel Gate, as well as information about housebuilding generally, and the apprenticeship opportunities that Barratt Homes has.

Harlan Bevis, construction director for Barratt Southern Counties, said: “The whole team at Chapel Gate really enjoyed having the students from Basingstoke College of Technology onsite and helping them understand the processes and logistics involved with the construction of new homes sites.

“Everywhere we build new homes we aim to provide educational opportunities to nearby schools and colleges. It is down to us to help educate the next generation of housebuilders – especially at a time when there is such a shortage of skills.”

BCoT principal Anthony Bravo said: “We are very grateful to the team at Chapel Gate for welcoming our students to their exciting development. We are proud to work with businesses such as Barratt Homes, who provide our students with real life experiences alongside their studies. The experience was extremely worthwhile to the students, who were able to see first-hand how studying construction can lead to a successful career.”