Our year 13 Built Environment learners enjoyed a trip to the ExCel building to see the expansion project's progress. Learners were taken on a tour by James Roy, sustainability manager, who offered learners an insight into the level of organisation and collaboration in a construction project.  

Before the tour, learners met with a client and engineers involved in the expansion project to learn about these two different perspectives. James then went onto discuss foundations and piling, drawing on real examples from the project (learners then went onto see the piling during the tour). He also discussed the role of digital construction and increasing role of technology in the construction industry. Learners also found out about roles in construction, routes into industry and the application process for Sir Robert McAlpine. 

Following James’ informative talk, learners were given a tour around the site. As James discussed logistical and organisational difficulties and how to overcome them, learners were offered a valuable perspective and given a comprehensive overview of the projects’ progress. With Q&A opportunities throughout the tour, learners were able to find out specific information about their desired roles in construction. 

Samson, year 13 built environment learner, shared that ‘This trip was an amazing behind the scenes insight into how different considerations influence how companies undergo construction, from the client, costs, to the environment it will take place in. I enjoyed seeing how these considerations and ideas are communicated to not only the main client working with the construction company, but also the potential users of the site where construction is also tailored to their need to draw more consumers.’