Our BTEC level three Construction and Built Environment Apprentices were invited to University of East London to design and test different concrete mixes. The session was delivered by Chris, UEL’s lab technician.

Concrete is a popular construction material that requires many properties to ensure it is made correctly.  

Our apprentices were given apparatus and concrete mix then had to follow a method to make the concrete. This hands-on masterclass offered apprentices insight into one of the key materials used in construction and how varying methods and mixes result in different properties in the concrete.

Apprentices then had to test the concrete they produced and analyse how their different properties can be beneficial. They were led through the slump test, which measures the consistency of freshly made concrete before it is set. This popular concrete test is widely used in construction industries to ensure uniformity for different loads of concrete. Apprentices also investigated the water-cement ratio and the benefits of adding fly ash to concrete mixes.  

As a result of this masterclass, our Construction and Built Environment Apprentices gained valuable insight of a vital construction material that many may overlook.  
Our apprentice Sam shared, ‘I found the session to be fun, engaging and informative.’

Thanks to University of East London for your continued support throughout the apprenticeship course and for a practical insight into one of the fundamental materials needed in construction.