GRAHAM has partnered with The Manchester College in delivering real-life industry work experience for students participating on the T Levels programme.

The leading civil engineering contractor hosted placement student, Aris Kiteculo, at its Salford Quays office where GRAHAM Senior Bid Manager, Steve Hall, and his team provided a hands-on, practical insight into the construction industry.

T Levels is a new qualification for students aged 16 to 19. Every T Levels student must complete an industry placement that lasts a minimum of 315 hours (approximately 45 days).

The Manchester College is one of the top ten providers of university-level and further education in England, and is the number one provider of 16-19 education in Greater Manchester.

Next generation

Commenting on Aris’s positive contribution, and the link up with the college, GRAHAM Senior Bid Manager, Steve Hall, said:

“When we were approached by The Manchester College, we were keen to get involved and provide a development opportunity for one of the new T Levels students. By building lasting relationships with education providers, we can inspire the next generation and attract them into the many varied careers the construction industry has to offer.

“It was a privilege for us to work with Aris who supported us two days a week. She was extremely keen to learn and introduced some new ideas. I am confident that over the course of her placement she has developed a broad range of useful skills which will stand her in good stead for the future. We look forward to continuing to work with The Manchester College, and to support the practical and technical development of more young people.”

Confidence

Aris worked alongside the GRAHAM bid team, who specialise in work winning across a range of sectors including highways, rail and maritime, up until lockdown. Speaking about her experience, she said:

“I very much enjoyed my industry placement at GRAHAM. The placement has improved my confidence in communicating and working with others. Overall, I enjoyed learning new things and finding out how different parts of the business work. I would recommend a placement at GRAHAM because you get lots of hands on experience and the team are really helpful.”

Excellent employer

Praising GRAHAM for its collaborative approach, Employer Engagement Leader from The Manchester College, Belinda Jones, added:

“GRAHAM has been an excellent employer to work with. They have been generous in offering both work placements and industry placements to students at The Manchester College over the past few years. Business students have gained an excellent insight into the organisation and have gained work-based knowledge and skills to help them both with their college course and accessing work or university in the future.”